Summer days out for the elderly


Bright Care Days Out

Finding the perfect place for an outing with an older loved one can be tricky. Whether you are looking for flat walking paths, dementia-friendly environments, or simply a spot with plenty of seating and a good cup of tea, it’s not always easy to know where to go.

At Bright Care, we believe that staying active and connected is crucial for health and mental wellbeing so we asked our local care teams across Scotland and England to share their favourite accessible days out. These spots have been selected specifically for their accessibility, comfort, and home baking!

Days out for the elderly in Scotland

Accessible days out in Aberdeen

Lee, Branch Manager, Aberdeen recommends Hazelhead Park: Lee says “Hazelhead Park is a popular place to take our clients. In the summertime it has a colourful display of azaleas, but you have to go quick before the season is over! There is also a pets corner with donkeys, rabbits, alpacas and goats (and even a fish aquarium). We like it because there is lots of seating, forestry and greenery and it’s all on a flat level so fully accessible.”

Accessible days out in Broughty Ferry

Sandra, Branch Manager in Broughty Ferry recommends the castle and seafrontSandra says “The castle and the seafront would be my top recommendation. This area is very popular with our clients. They are close to the town which has lots of great cafes, restaurants and the best Italian ice cream!”

Accessible days out in Edinburgh

Cheryl, Branch Manager in Edinburgh recommends Laurison Castle:Cheryl says “Lauriston Castle has an outdoor brain health and Dementia garden with accessible walking paths, a sensory garden, a summer house, and a calm, nature-focused environment managed by Alzheimer Scotland. Many of Edinburgh’s Clients and Carers love a walk around the grounds admiring the flowers and finishing off at Mimi’s Bakehouse for delicious cakes and coffee.”

Accessible days out in Glasgow

Sarah Jane, Care Manager in Glasgow recommends the Burrell Collection:Sarah Jane says “The Burrell Collection in Pollok Park is a favourite with our clients. They offer wheelchairs for free to anyone that may struggle to walk around as it is such a big building with a lovely restaurant as well. Also if you venture a little further into the park you can see Highland cows.”

Accessible days out in Perthshire

Sandra, Branch Manager in Perthshire recommends the Black Watch Museum: Sandra says “The Black Watch Museum is very popular. The Clients can have a cuppa in their cafe and stroll through the museum. They have different events on so there is always something to see. Then they can also walk down to the North Inch Park. It has easy access and is close to the River Tay.”

Accessible days out in the Scottish Borders

Gillian, Care Manager in the Scottish Borders recommends the The Waterwheel Cafe: Gillian says “The Waterwheel Cafe in Selkirk is a welcoming and accessible community café set in the peaceful surroundings of Philiphaugh. For older adults, it provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy a nutritious meal, socialise with friends and family, and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Its comfortable seating, wheelchair accessibility, friendly staff, and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal place to stay connected to the local community and support overall health and wellbeing. A friendly local group also meets regularly at the café to catch up over refreshments before enjoying a game of pétanque, a gentle outdoor game where players take turns throwing metal balls as close as possible to a small target ball. They are always happy to welcome new players, regardless of age or experience, making it a great way to meet new people, keep active, and enjoy time outdoors in a relaxed and inclusive environment.”

Accessible days out in Stirling

Natalie, Branch Manager in Stirling recommends King’s ParkNatalie says: “King’s Park in Stirling is a popular spot for older adults and our clients like to go there for a walk. There are beautiful gardens, plenty of seating and lovely views, including Stirling Castle. There’s a cafe that you can get coffee and light bites from too. There are nice flat paths and an accessible toilet available too.”

Days out for the elderly in England

Accessible days out in Brighton and Hove

Lucy, Care Manager in Brighton and Hove recommends the seafront: Lucy says “Our top pick would have to be Brighton and Hove seafront. It’s lovely for a gentle stroll with plenty of benches to stop at and take in the sea views. There are lots of restaurants, cafés and ice cream shops along the way, and the Palace Pier always adds a bit of traditional seaside charm. There is often live entertainment. Whether it’s people watching, enjoying fish and chips, or relaxing by the beach, it’s a great day out for everyone.”

Accessible days out in Chichester

Amy, Branch Manager in Chichester recommends Bosham Quay: Amy says “Bosham Quay is a beautiful spot in the lovely and peaceful village of Bosham and it’s just a short drive from Chichester. This is a favourite place for our clients to visit. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful walk, with stunning harbour views and plenty of opportunities to watch the boats coming and going with the tide. The church nearby is well worth a visit, and is full of charm and character. There’s also a lovely café where you can relax with a drink or a bite to eat while enjoying the scenery. There is a small small art gallery and some lovely independent shops offering unique gifts and local crafts.”

Accessible days out in Cranleigh

Laura, Branch Manager in Cranleigh recommends Knowle Park: Laura says “Knowle Park is very popular with our Cranleigh clients due to its flat paths making it perfectly accessible. There is a lovely lake to walk around with good coffee and ice cream.”

Accessible days out in Cuckfield

Lucy, Care Manager in Cuckfield recommends Nymans: Lucy says “Nymans is well worth a visit. Run by the National Trust, the estate is famous for its 1920s manor house ruins, which look like something straight out of a storybook. It is a wonderful place for a gentle, multi-generational afternoon. The main garden paths are flat and easy to navigate, with plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the topiary and rose gardens. For a longer walk, the lawns open up into peaceful woodland trails. It’s ideal for all ages, as children can run off some energy in the “Play Glade,” and there is an excellent café right on site for tea and cake afterwards.”

Accessible days out in Horsham

Laura, Branch Manager in Horsham recommends Strawberry Fields Tea Room: Laura says “Strawberry Fields Tea Room is popular with our Horsham clients for a spot of lunch or cream tea. It is located on a working farm and has beautiful views across the Sussex countryside on the outskirts of Horsham.”