This document revised 4/8/21 does not contain personal opinions as to our suitability for those with access needs but aims to accurately describe the facilities and services that we offer our guests and visitors.
Introduction
Alford Manor House, the largest thatched manor house in England, together with the Rural Life Museum, is situated in the centre of Alford. It is on a flat site with a car parking area. Following a complete restoration in 2006 all three floors and adjoining marquee for events, are open to visitors, with lift access to the first floor. As this is Grade 2 listed building there is no access available to the top floor attics. The Rural Life Museum is a fully accessible former barn, opening hours the same as the Manor House.
Pre-Arrival
The house is in the centre of town on the A1104 at LN13 9HT.
Coming from the A16 join the A1104 at Ulceby Cross, 3 miles from Alford.
From the coast coming inland:
Mablethorpe A1104, Sutton on Sea A1111,
Chapel St Leonards/Ingoldmells/Skegness A52 and B1449
The main road outside the attraction has a wide level footpath.
Car Parking and Arrival
Free on site parking with signed accessible spaces is adjacent to the paved footpath. The car park surface is gravel with PIR and low level lighting at night. The Museum of Rural Life and the marquee used for functions have non-slip ramped access.
There are double solid doors at the main front entrance to the house with a small lip to the doorway. A portable ramp is available on request if required. A bell call point at the front door can be used for assistance. There is always a volunteer at the reception desk during normal opening hours to assist and advise as required. Information boards are in all rooms and large print guides to the house are available on request.
Main entrance /Reception area
Staff members at desk for any required assistance/queries
Lift access to marquee/first floor is off the corridor beyond reception-. desk volunteer will assist if required
Information material available at desk includes –
Free hard copies of house tour guide
Large print tour guides
Book of photographs showing the structure and displays on the top attic floor.
Tearoom
Leads from reception area with level access
Tables can be moved to allow wheelchair access
Waitress service / bell call point
Bar
One Step Access
Accessible toilets
There are two which comply with the current Building Regulations – Part M
1 In the main toilet block at the rear of the marquee with direct access from the car park or from the marquee. Lift available from reception to marquee.
2 First floor adjacent to the lift
Front Sitting Room
Induction loop
Licensed Civil Ceremony room
First Floor
Lift access from main reception area – desk volunteer will assist if required
Accessible toilet adjacent to lift
Fire Safety Refuge in accessible toilet as approved by Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue
Single step to some rooms – portable ramp available at that level
Cushioned bench seating in most rooms
Wooden floors
Ceiling spotlights
Second Floor / Attic
Staircase access only
Wooden floors
Ceiling spotlights
The two back rooms have steps/ low ceiling access
Garden/Courtyard
Access for wheelchair users and those with mobility problems via the marquee and ramp Gravel pathways
Seating at various points in the garden
Janett Thornalley
Access Surveyor