Dementia Friendly Days Out In The South

The world is opening up for people with dementia as individuals and businesses become more aware of the importance of being dementia-friendly. Of course, life will change after a diagnosis, but it’s increasingly possible for people affected by dementia to enjoy a fun and fulfilling day out.

In our latest blog, we’re hitting the road to explore the best dementia friendly days out in the south of England.

(By the way – if you’re a northern reader who’s stumbled onto this blog post or you’re planning a holiday up north, check out our recommendations for dementia days out in the north!)

What kind of days out are suitable for people living with dementia?

First things first, let’s consider what kind of places lend themselves to a fantastic day out.

You need to bear several things in mind for your day trip to be a hit, so always plan ahead, do your homework, avoid busy times like weekends and school holidays, and try to keep your spirits up if things don’t quite go according to plan.

The best types of day trip in our opinion are:

• Outdoor activities – the fresh air is wonderful for us all, and green spaces are especially helpful for supporting mental and physical health to improve overall wellbeing in dementia.
• Places to reminisce – this depends on the individual, but planning a trip somewhere nostalgic for them is a great place to start, like the place they grew up or holidayed as a child.
• Historical spots – many people with dementia find comfort in exploring the past, so look for places that appeal to their historical interests, like local history museums or heritage sites.
• Socialising– there are so many different groups for people with dementia these days, so don’t rule out socialising! Find social sessions with a theme that suits your loved one, like memory cafes, arts and crafts, or singing groups.

What sort of things make places to visit dementia-friendly?

Here’s what to look out for when organising your trip:

• A welcoming environment for people with dementia – check their website for signs they’re dementia friendly and offer extra support and assistance
• Trained volunteers to support you to make your day run smoothly
• Facilities and services onsite that will make your life easier
• Accessibility and accommodations for people with disabilities if needed.

So, let’s get into some of our best recommendations for dementia days out in the south, divided into the south east, south west, and London.

If we’ve missed something you’d recommend, please share it with us so we can add it to the list! 

Dementia friendly places in the south east

Social groups for dementia in the south east

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to socialising in the south east of England.

DEEP (Dementia Engagement and Empowerment Project) is a fantastic resource for finding memory cafes, support groups, and other group activities in all areas – check out their recommendations for dementia socialising in the south east.

Historical days out in the south east

Blenheim Palace is a world heritage site in Oxfordshire with lots going on for everyone and fantastic accessibility provisions. Find out more about their dementia friendly days out.

Windsor Castle also runs a monthly dementia-friendly morning, Royal Reminiscence, which features a talk, an activity, and refreshments. It’s free and wheelchair accessible, just make sure you book ahead.

Dementia friendly screenings

Many cinemas offer dementia friendly screenings with reduced pricing, free carer places, low lighting, no trailers, and free movement. 

Picture House cinemas have locations in Cambridge, Brighton, Southampton, Henley and Norwich which all have a monthly dementia friendly screening. However, it’s always worth checking with your local cinema and theatre for accessible performances if your loved one loves the stage or silver screen.

Dementia friendly places in the south west

Socialising in the south west

Again, the DEEP website is a great resource if you’re looking for social events in the south west of England for someone with dementia – discover a variety of support groups, memory cafes, special interest clubs and more.

Accessible performances and screenings in Bristol

Visit Bristol has a fantastic round-up of accessible events in Bristol which includes dementia-friendly theatre performances at many of the city’s famous theatres, like Bristol Old Vic, as well as relaxed film screenings with lights on and gentler volumes. Plus, many of the venues offer free tickets for accompanying friends and carers. 

The list also features social events in the local area, including dementia-friendly swimming!

Historical days for people with dementia in the south west

If your loved one has an interest in history, South West Heritage Trust offers a range of days out at its various historical sites, including Taunton Castle, The Museum of Somerset, and Devon Heritage Centre.

Plus, its Reminiscence Sessions are ideal if you’d love to stimulate memories for older people with dementia but getting out is an issue. Trained experts bring their resources to you and you can choose from different themes, like The Second World War, wash day, the seaside, farming, and house and home. All sessions feature sensory activities to boost recall and wellbeing, bringing the past to life without having to venture out!

Dementia friendly places in London

Dementia Friendly Venues Charter

In 2021, the Mayor of London launched a Dementia Friendly Venues Charter – a world first – in consultation with Alzheimer’s Society and the Museum of London.

The goal was to encourage more arts and culture venues to become inclusive for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related conditions, and as we write this in 2024, over 100 venues have become accredited.

All accredited venues are available to view on this map of London and listed in alphabetical order with website links for easy access. You can also filter by category (e.g. museum, performing arts, heritage) and your local borough to see what’s going on in your area. 

This list is substantial and spans world famous museums like the V&A, legendary venues like Royal Albert Hall, heritage sites like Fulham Palace, and even local leisure and community centres.

A fantastic leap forward in the quest for us to become a dementia friendly nation!

Socialising with dementia in London

Loveday’s The Day Club is a London members-only club for senior living and dementia.

It aims to replicate the exclusive private members’ club vibe while offering the opportunity for socialising, fine dining, a change of scenery, and a range of stimulating activities, from beauty treatments and gym workouts to singing, music and memory workshops. It even has a transportation service to deliver you to and from home.

However, if that’s out of budget, there’s a wealth of dementia friendly social groups and activities across every borough of London, so check the Alzheimer’s Society website or Dementia UK to see what’s happening in your neighbourhood.

Health walks for dementia

Kew Gardens operates monthly health walks for people with dementia.

Relaxing and accessible for all, they last around an hour and are free of charge for people with dementia and a friend or carer, including access into the gardens. All you need to do is book your spot in advance. Walks end around lunchtime – what better excuse to pop into one of Kew’s many cafes and restaurants to refuel!

Meanwhile, volunteers with Froglife’s Leaping Forward For Dementia project run weekly Wild Times sessions in a range of beautiful outdoor spaces which are a must if you live in the Lambeth area.

They include tranquil woodland walks and talks, supported gardening, creative activities and the chance to meet new people and reminisce together. Every location is fully accessible with easy access to toilets, and there are regular breaks for refreshments and snacks.

Keeping brains and bodies active in dementia

We are so passionate about keeping bodies and minds active during dementia because despite the challenges, we know from experience that it’s possible to find moments of joy between you and your loved one.

If you’re looking for ways to stay busy in the comfort of your own home, people of all ages are loving our dementia friendly conversation game, Matching Memories, for sparking laughter, storytelling, and connection. 

Keep an eye on our range of dementia friendly games and activities as we have lots of exciting things in the pipeline designed to help people with dementia experience the power of A Good Day. 💛