Our Commitment
We are committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment for all guests, visitors and team members. We aim to ensure that all guests are treated with dignity and respect and are able to access our services and facilities as comfortably as possible.
We recognise our responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 and are committed to making reasonable adjustments wherever practicable.
As Stoke Lodge is a historic property with varying levels, stair access and architectural limitations, some areas of the hotel may not be suitable for guests with certain mobility or accessibility requirements. We therefore encourage all guests to contact us prior to booking to discuss any individual needs so we can provide accurate information and determine whether the property is suitable for their stay.
About the Property
Stoke Lodge is a historic building, with parts of the property dating back over 200 years. Due to the age and character of the building:
- There is no lift access within the hotel
- There are multiple changes in floor level throughout the property
- Corridors and doorways throughout the hotel may be narrow
- No bedrooms within the hotel are fully accessible
- All bedroom emergency exit routes require the use of stairs
Some areas of the property may therefore be unsuitable for wheelchair users or guests with significant mobility limitations.
Parking & Arrival
- One designated accessible parking space is available directly outside the hotel entrance
- Access from the parking space to the entrance is via a steep ramp
- Staff are available to assist guests upon arrival where required
Guests are encouraged to contact Reception in advance should assistance be required on arrival.
Guest Bedrooms
The hotel has six ground floor bedrooms:
- Three sea-view rooms
- Three rear-facing rooms
Please note:
- Access to these rooms requires two steps down to the corridor and two steps up
- All ground floor rooms contain step-in showers
- No bedrooms contain widened doorways
- No bedrooms contain shower seats
- Grab rails are fitted on both staircases leading to the ground floor rooms
- All emergency exit routes from bedrooms require the use of emergency escape stairs
Flooring throughout the ground floor rooms consists of wood-effect flooring with area rugs. Upper floors are carpeted.
Guests with Mobility Requirements
We will always endeavour to assist guests with mobility requirements wherever reasonably practicable. This may include:
- Allocating the most suitable available bedroom
- Assistance with luggage
- Assistance navigating stairs where appropriate and safe
- Seating arrangements within public areas and restaurant spaces
Due to the layout and limitations of the building, the hotel is not suitable for wheelchair users requiring step-free access.
Guests with Visual Impairments
We aim to provide reasonable assistance to guests with visual impairments, including:
- Verbal orientation on arrival
- Assistance locating facilities and bedrooms
- Reading menus upon request
- Ensuring staff are aware of any support requirements
Guests should be aware that some external areas contain steep, uneven and natural terrain with limited lighting.
Guests with Hearing Impairments
Guests are encouraged to notify Reception of any hearing impairments prior to or upon arrival so appropriate arrangements can be considered, particularly in relation to emergency evacuation procedures.
Please note:
- Fire alarm sounders are fitted in all bedrooms
- The hotel does not currently provide vibrating pillows or visual alarm systems
- A hearing loop system is not available
Where required, communication can be provided via:
- Written communication
- Text message
Emergency Evacuation Procedures
Guests with mobility limitations, visual impairments or hearing impairments are identified to the overnight duty manager so that assistance can be prioritised in the event of an emergency evacuation.
The designated refuge point is located at the front end of the car park and is clearly signposted.
Where required, guests will be requested to complete a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) to identify any assistance required in the event of an emergency evacuation. Relevant information is communicated to the overnight duty manager and appropriate team members to help ensure assistance can be prioritised safely and effectively.
Pools & Leisure Facilities
The hotel has both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Please note:
- Neither pool is accessible for wheelchair users
- Both pools are accessed via steps
- The indoor pool has handrails
- The outdoor pool does not have handrails
- Pool hoists are not available
- Accessible changing facilities are not available
Guests should take care around poolside areas, which may become slippery when wet.
Woodland & Pond Area
The hotel grounds include woodland and pond areas.
Please note:
- These areas contain steep, uneven and natural terrain
- Lighting is limited within these areas
- Access may be difficult for guests with mobility limitations
- Entry is at guests’ own risk
- Swimming in the pond is strictly prohibited
- Water hazard signage is displayed throughout the area
Communication & Accessibility Requests
Guests may notify us of any accessibility requirements:
- By telephone
- By email
- By text message
Accessibility queries and requests are managed by:
- Myles Bruce
- Alexandra Ray
Staff receive annual accessibility and guest assistance training.
Continuous Improvement
We are committed to reviewing our facilities, procedures and services on an ongoing basis to identify reasonable improvements to accessibility wherever practicable.
We welcome guest feedback regarding accessibility and inclusion.