UK Bus & Train Accessibility Guide

Complete guide for wheelchair and mobility scooter users on UK public transport. Find specifications, requirements, and accessibility features for buses, trains and underground services.

Bus Transportation Guidelines (UK)

  • Manual Wheelchairs

    All manual wheelchairs are welcome on UK buses with designated wheelchair spaces

  • Electric Wheelchairs

    Power wheelchairs up to 70cm wide and 120cm long are permitted on most bus services

  • Mobility Scooters

    Class 2 scooters only - must not exceed 4mph and fit within designated space dimensions

Important Note

Class 3 mobility scooters (road scooters) are not permitted on buses. Only Class 2 pavement scooters are allowed.

Train & Underground Access

  • National Rail

    All trains have designated wheelchair spaces - advance booking recommended for assistance

  • London Underground

    Step-free access available at 280+ stations - check TfL website for station accessibility

  • Passenger Assist

    Free assistance service - book 24 hours in advance for boarding help and ramp deployment

UK Size & Weight Specifications

Maximum Dimensions (Bus)

70cm wide × 120cm long

Weight Limit (Bus)

300kg combined (device + user)

Train Dimensions

70cm wide × 120cm long × 200cm high

Scooter Speed Limit

6.4 km/h (4 mph) maximum

Turning Circle

Must navigate 80cm doorways

Battery Type

Sealed, non-spillable batteries required

Regional Transport Operators

  • Transport for London (TfL)

    All buses wheelchair accessible - use Citymapper or TfL Go app for step-free journey planning

  • First Group

    Operates across England, Scotland and Wales - all new buses meet accessibility standards

  • Stagecoach

    UK-wide operator with commitment to 100% low-floor accessible fleet

Additional Information

For journey planning assistance, contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50 or use the Passenger Assist app. TfL customers can call 0343 222 1234 for accessibility support.