Disability Access
Disability Access
We are committed to making Camp Bestival as accessible as possible and great efforts are being been made to achieve this where reasonable. The Lulworth Castle Grounds are predominantly flat and are partially serviced by a network of paths. However, Camp Bestival is an outdoor event utilising fields and farmland that could pose problems, particularly in wet weather. With a little help here and there though we feel that it is definitely manageable and we provide free tickets for carers to this end.
Please read the following information very carefully:
Registration and buying tickets
You need to register your interest in Disability Access Camping and a carer's pass BEFORE buying your Camp Bestival tickets - this is so we can better manage the space available.
To make it clear, here are the steps for registering and buying tickets:
1. Complete the application form and submit
2. Await an email that says your application has been received
3. Purchase your tickets (if not already purchased)*
4. Reply to disabilityaccess@campbestival.net that you have purchased tickets
*Space is limited so please purchase and confirm as soon as possible. If you choose to camp in general camping, you may still receive a ticket for a carer.
Allocation of space in disability access camping
Once we have received confirmation that you have purchased your tickets and plan to attend Camp Bestival, we will then allocate a space where available. Please note that a space is not guaranteed and is limited on a first-come, first-serve basis but we will do all we can to fit as many people as possible in before we ask you to camp in general camping.
Also, as we know things can happen prior to the festival and change your ability to come to the festival, we shall also ask you to confirm that you intend to come to Camp Bestival two weeks before the event.
Getting Around
Electric wheelchairs can tackle most areas without too much hindrance but the ground can be quite uneven in places and is predominantly on grass. If it rains it may get muddy and access around the site (other than on the paths) may be very difficult. The terrain is predominantly short grass with firm soil so movement around the main arena and other stages is possible for fit wheelchair users in good weather.
Camping
The Disability Access Camping Area is positioned near to the main Lulworth Castle entrance and to the Main Stage. It is a few minutes from here to the main arena on relatively flat ground.
NB: Your family and friends can camp with you in the disability access camping area but your group including the person with a disability, a carer and children can be a maximum of 6 people. Other people with disabilities who are your friends and family should apply separately.
Parking
Disability access ticket holders need to follow signs for Disability Access Camping - this is accessed via the Main Lulworth Castle Gates. Only vehicles with a blue badge (or similar) can park in the disability access camping area. A car park for persons with a disability without a blue badge is close by and accessible throughout the weekend. Friends will have to park in the main car park, however. Only one vehicle is allowed in the camping area and this includes motorhomes. Day parking is also available.
Facilities
- Charging points for electric wheelchairs are available - these are outdoors so can be affected by damp conditions so chargers are left at users risk
- Certain medical support is available from the on site medical centre but any specific medical needs should be discussed before purchasing a ticket.
- Accessible lavatories will be positioned at various places around the festival and we aim to protect them from public use.
- Stewards will be on hand to help with any issues that may arise during the weekend
- We do not supply motability buggies or any other form of onsite transport - you will need to bring your own if it is needed
- At the time of writing, we do not have viewing platforms at Camp Bestival as there are elevated positions for viewing
Sign Language Interpreter (TBC)
A sign language interpreter will be at many of the big children's shows throughout the weekend. Our interpreter will be a qualified British Sign Language/English Interpreter with many years experience of signing and also as a CSW Communication Support Worker.
Among other information, you will need to provide:
1. A description of your disability
2. The name of your carer/helper that will be with you
3. How many would be in your group (6 people total)
4. Date of arrival
5. Please bring your blue badge or a copy of your most recent letter of entitlement to Disability Living Allowance (or similar) when you collect your carer's ticket on arrival at the event.
If you have any pressing questions that are not answered here, please email disabilityaccess@campbestival.net