Overview

The hotel features a range of adapted environments which make it more accessible to the different needs of the public. Examples of this include the disabled access toilet in both the lobby and the bedrooms, the ramp in to the main entrance, the assistance cords in the accessible toilet and bedrooms and the widened entrances to accessible rooms. Alongside this the ease of access to the Hotel on public transport and the offer of complementary valet parking makes the experience of visiting and staying at the hotel more relaxing. The staff appear well trained and sensitive to the needs of all guests. The open plan design of the hotel features many glass walls and mirrors which could prove disorientating especially for individuals with cognitive or visual impairments.

Transport & Parking

The Hotel is located in city centre, under half a mile away from Sheffield train and bus station. The route is pedestrianized for those not using transport but does include uphill terrain. Cars and taxis can drop off guests directly outside the hotels main entrance and a concierge is on hand to assist with luggage. If a guest wishes to use the valet car parking service it is usually chargeable, however, if the driver of the car is a blue badge holder this service is offered complementary. There is no on site car park, however, the NCP Arundel Gate is 0.2 miles away.

Access

The hotel consists of a lobby area including a restaurant, lounge and champagne bar open to all on the ground floor and directly above this 5 floors of guest bedrooms. The main entrance to the hotel features a ramp making it suitable for guest using wheelchairs and other walking aids. The lobby area is open plan making it a space in which those with mobility problems can navigate without increased risk or difficulty. The open plan design features glass walls and mirrors brings light into the environment but could prove disorientating for an individual with cognitive or visual impairments.

Toilets

There is an accessible toilet in the lobby area of the hotel which features grab rails around the toilet and panic cords in case a guest requires assistance. The entrance to the toilet is wide and the room itself is large allowing for movement. There are also accessible bedrooms within the hotel; these rooms also have an accessible bathroom which includes a walk-in shower with a fitted shower seat, grab rails, panic cord and sliding door for easier access.

Staff

The hotel staff appeared well trained in customer service and where witnessed going out of their way to assist all guests in a non-discriminatory manner. They appeared to be sensitive to the needs of all guests, both those staying at the hotel and those using the facilities. The lowered section of the reception desk insures guests in wheelchairs are still able to communicate and engage effectively with staff without a physical barrier.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

The hotel is a great environment which appears to be accessible for individuals with a wide range of needs both in public area and the rooms. As previously mentioned the accessible rooms feature a walk-in wet room style bathroom. Other modifications within this room type include an additional lowered spy hold, adjustable coat rail and a widened entrance way into the room. A great safety feature of these rooms is the vibrating pillows which are designed to alert guest with auditory impairments in the case of emergency.