♿ Disabled Accessible Toilets Across the UK
Quick Answer: The UK has over 8,000 accessible toilets designed for wheelchair users and people with disabilities. Most require a RADAR key (£4.50 from Disability Rights UK), which works at 9,000+ locked facilities. Accessible toilets are free to use, even where standard toilets charge. For people with complex care needs, look for Changing Places facilities with hoists and adult changing tables – there are 1,800+ across the UK. Use our map to find accessible toilets near you.
Find wheelchair accessible public toilets with RADAR key access, grab rails, and full accessibility features. Comprehensive directory of disabled-friendly facilities nationwide.
Who This Guide Is For:
- ✅ Wheelchair users needing step-free toilet access
- ✅ People with mobility impairments requiring grab rails
- ✅ RADAR key holders looking for NKS-locked facilities
- ✅ Carers of people with complex needs seeking Changing Places
- ✅ People with invisible disabilities (IBD, Crohn's, continence issues)
- ✅ Parents with disabled children needing specialist facilities
Wide Access
Wheelchair accessible doors and spacious interiors for comfortable use.
RADAR Key
Many facilities accessible with RADAR key for enhanced security and cleanliness.
Safety Features
Grab rails, emergency alarms, and accessible fixtures for safe use.
Types of Accessible Toilet Facilities
♿ Standard Accessible Toilets
- • Wheelchair accessible with wide doors
- • Grab rails and support bars
- • Accessible sink and hand dryer
- • Emergency alarm cord
- • Space for transfer from wheelchair
🛏️ Changing Places Facilities
- • Full-size adult changing table
- • Hoist system for safe transfers
- • Privacy screen and additional space
- • Space for multiple carers
- • Enhanced safety and hygiene features
Accessible Toilet Types Compared
Compare different accessible toilet types to understand which facilities meet your needs.
| Facility Type | Key Required? | Features | Space | Best For | UK Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Accessible Toilet | Usually no | Grab rails, emergency alarm, accessible fixtures | 2-3m² minimum | Independent wheelchair users | Very common (~8,000+) |
| RADAR Key Toilet | Yes (£4.50 key) | Same as standard + locked for security | 2-3m² minimum | Those wanting cleaner/private facilities | Common (~9,000+ locations) |
| Changing Places | Sometimes (RADAR or staff) | Hoist, adult changing table, peninsula toilet | 12m² minimum | People with complex care needs, carers | Growing (~1,800+) |
| Space to Change | Varies | Adult changing table (no hoist) | 6-8m² | Those needing changing table but not hoist | Limited (~200+) |
| Ambulant Accessible | No | Grab rails only, standard cubicle size | Standard size | Ambulant disabled, elderly | Very common |
Last updated: December 2025. RADAR keys available from Disability Rights UK.
RADAR Key Access
What is a RADAR Key?
The RADAR key is a universal access system for public disabled toilets across the UK. It ensures facilities remain clean, safe, and available for those who need them most.
How to Get a RADAR Key:
- • Contact Disability Rights UK
- • Apply online or by post
- • Cost: £4.50 plus postage
- • Proof of disability required
Where RADAR Keys Work:
- • Train stations and airports
- • Shopping centres and retail parks
- • Motorway service stations
- • Tourist attractions and venues
Where to Find Accessible Toilets
🚉 Transport
- • All major train stations
- • International airports
- • Motorway services
- • Bus and coach stations
- • Ferry terminals
🛍️ Retail
- • Shopping centres
- • Major supermarkets
- • Retail parks
- • Department stores
- • Garden centres
🏛️ Public
- • Libraries and council buildings
- • Museums and galleries
- • Hospitals and clinics
- • Sports and leisure centres
- • Tourist attractions
Accessible Toilets by Major Cities
Accessible Toilets - Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a toilet wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair accessible toilets have wide doors (850mm minimum), turning space, accessible height fixtures, grab rails, emergency alarms, and adequate space for wheelchair maneuvering and transfers.
Do I need a RADAR key for all accessible toilets?
No, many accessible toilets are freely accessible. RADAR keys are required for specific facilities in transport hubs, some shopping centres, and certain public locations for security and maintenance reasons.
Are accessible toilets always free to use?
Most accessible toilets are free, even in locations where standard facilities charge a fee. The Equality Act requires reasonable adjustments, which typically includes free access to accessible facilities.
What are Changing Places facilities?
Changing Places are enhanced accessible toilets with adult-sized changing tables, hoists, and extra space for people with complex care needs. They're located in major venues and shopping centres.
How can I find accessible toilets when traveling?
Use our toilet finder, check venue websites, call ahead to confirm facilities, and download apps like "Toilet Map" or "AccessAble" for detailed accessibility information.
Your Rights: Equality Act 2010
Under the Equality Act 2010, service providers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled customers. This includes providing accessible toilet facilities where possible.
Service Providers Must:
- • Remove barriers to access
- • Provide auxiliary aids
- • Make reasonable adjustments
- • Not discriminate against disability
You Have the Right To:
- • Access public facilities
- • Request reasonable adjustments
- • Complain about poor access
- • Equal treatment and dignity