Bondville’s Owner on Accessible Attractions in East Yorkshire: A Guide for Inclusive Tourism
Tourism should be open to everyone — but for many families with accessibility needs, days out can still present barriers. At Bondville Model Village in Bridlington, inclusion is not a trend — it’s a commitment. In this guide, owner Rachel Hill shares her personal journey as a public speaker and advocate for accessibility in tourism, along with a list of genuinely welcoming places to visit across East Yorkshire.
Rachel’s Story: From Owner to Advocate
Rachel Hill didn’t set out to become a public voice for inclusion in tourism. But when she took over Bondville Model Village — the only model village in Yorkshire — she quickly saw how many families faced challenges when trying to enjoy a simple day out.
From terrain accessibility and signage visibility to the way staff engage with disabled visitors, Rachel began rethinking Bondville through an inclusive lens. That journey led her to speak out publicly about accessibility and make tangible changes to the site.
“We’re not just preserving a model village,” Rachel says. “We’re growing a world of wonder where everyone belongs.”
What Makes an Attraction Truly Accessible? (Advice from Rachel Hill)
Accessibility goes beyond ramps and toilets. It’s about the full experience — how welcoming, safe, and empowering a place feels to every visitor. Here are five small but powerful changes that Rachel recommends for any business aiming to be more inclusive:
1. Train Your Staff to Approach, Not Avoid
“A warm welcome and a smile set the tone,” Rachel says. “At Bondville, our team don’t hesitate — if someone arrives with visible or invisible needs, we ask them how we can help.”
2. Communicate Clearly
Families need to know what to expect. “If you’ve got accessible loos or level parking, say so” she advises. “Showcase your inclusive efforts on social media — with permission — to reassure other families and represent everyone.”
3. Speak Directly to Disabled Visitors
“I always make eye contact and smile,” says Rachel. “Even if someone is non-verbal or has a carer present, they deserve to be spoken to directly.”
4. Ask for Input
“Engage with disabled people,” she says. “Ask what works, what doesn’t, and what you can do better. Facebook groups and forums are full of valuable insights.”
5. Check the Space — Then Clear It
“Look at your entrance, exits, and shared areas,” Rachel suggests. “Could a wheelchair get through easily? Is your signage visible from lower heights? Sometimes just moving a bin makes a huge difference.”
These insights were originally shared by Rachel in The Scarborough News, and are based on her personal and professional experience as a campaigner and parent.
Accessible Attractions in East Yorkshire to Visit
Looking for accessible days out in East Yorkshire? Here are a few standout options:
1. Bondville Model Village
Bondville offers level paths, accessible toilets, seated rest areas, and an ethos built around inclusion. The Bondville Storybook and stop-motion tales also support visitors with neurodiverse needs.
2. Sewerby Hall and Gardens
With step-free routes, accessible play areas, and a Changing Places facility, Sewerby is both historic and forward-thinking.
3. East Riding Leisure Bridlington
This leisure centre includes accessible pools, changing spaces, and activities suitable for all ages and abilities.
4. Bridlington Land Train
The land train includes space for wheelchair users and helps families move easily between seafront destinations.
5. Bridlington Beach (North & South)
Promenade access, beach wheelchairs, and nearby accessible facilities make this a great spot for inclusive seaside fun.
Final Thoughts from Rachel Hill
“Inclusive tourism benefits everyone,” Rachel says. “When you design with access in mind, the experience improves for every guest. At Bondville, we work every day to ensure that visitors feel seen, supported, and welcome.”
Rachel continues to speak across Yorkshire on disability awareness, offering practical advice to tourism providers. She also invites families to visit Bondville and discover a world where miniature magic and meaningful access go hand in hand.
Learn more or plan your visit at the Bondville homepage, or read more about Rachel’s accessibility advocacy and speaking work.
