Defra Access Funding
New accessible shuttle at Flatford
Thanks to more than £50,000 in funding from the Defra Access Fund, the National Trust was able to purchase a new electric, wheelchair accessible shuttle, and charging point for use at Constable's Flatford.
The shuttle will make it easier for more people to enjoy access to this iconic beauty spot, one of the most popular sites in East Anglia. The new vehicle will provide transport to those who find the walk between the main car park, and the world-renowned ‘Hay Wain’ view challenging.
The historic hamlet of Flatford lies at the heart of the Dedham Vale National Landscape and is the inspiration behind some of Britain’s most loved paintings, including John Constable’s ‘The Hay Wain’.
Each year, more than 200,000 people enjoy the outstanding beauty, natural landscape, wildlife, heritage and history at Flatford
Simon Peachey, National Trust Operations Manager at Flatford, said: “For many, Flatford is the gateway to enjoy Constable Country. We’re incredibly grateful to the Dedham Vale National Landscape for funding this new accessible shuttle, we know that services like this can make a big difference to someone’s visit.”
The shuttle will be driven by trained volunteers and is currently available for those arriving in coach parties, but the National Trust is keen to recruit more volunteers to enable this important service to be available for more visitors who need it.
For more information about accessibility at Flatford or to find out how to get involved as a volunteer, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford.