Access Welcome Guide

1. Before You Visit

You are welcome to tell us about any access requirements when you book or before you arrive.

We will do our best to make reasonable adjustments, such as:

• Allowing extra time for tours

• Providing seating where needed

• Providing large-print information on request

• Contact in advance (recommended if you have specific needs):

  Email: info@portmageewhiskey.ie

2. Getting Here & Parking

• We provide designated accessible parking spaces close to the main visitor entrance.

• There are step-free routes between accessible parking and the visitor entrance where site constraints allow.

• If you need to be dropped off at the door, please let us know and we’ll advise on the best approach.

If accessible parking is limited, spaces may be reservable in advance – ask us when booking and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

3. Entrance & Arrival

• Our aim is to provide step-free access to the main reception and key visitor areas.

• Where gradients or unavoidable changes of level exist, we signpost assisted-access routes or alternatives.

• Entrances and doorways are designed to be as accessible as possible, with wide doorways and threshold ramps where practical, to support wheelchair and mobility-aid users.

On arrival, you can speak to our reception team if you need assistance, space to rest, or directions to accessible facilities.

4. Moving Around Inside

Our visitor centre includes areas such as:

• Visitor reception

• Exhibition and tasting spaces

• Shop

• Toilets

• External approaches and parking areas

Within these spaces, we aim to:

• Maintain step-free or ramped routes to key public areas where possible

• Provide seating and rest points along the visitor route

• Use clear, high-contrast signage and visual information to support wayfinding

Where older or historic elements of the building limit full accessibility, we:

• Provide clear information about any unavoidable steps or narrow areas

• Offer alternative routes or modified experiences where possible

5. Toilets

• There is at least one accessible toilet within the visitor centre.

• The accessible toilet is designed to provide:

  • Additional space for wheelchair users

  • Appropriate grab rails and support features

  • Easy access from main visitor areas

If you require assistance locating the accessible toilet, please ask any member of staff.

6. Seating & Rest Points

• Seating is available throughout the visitor route to support guests who need to rest, including those with mobility, stamina or health conditions.

• If you know you will need seating at specific points (e.g. during tastings or talks), please let us know in advance or speak to us on arrival.

7. Tours, Tastings & Experiences

Our tours and guided tastings are designed to be as inclusive as possible:

• Where parts of the site involve multiple levels or steps, we will:

  • Highlight this in advance where we can

  • Offer alternative routes or adapted versions of the experience where possible

• We will always try to provide:

  • Seating during tastings or talks if requested

  • Extra time for guests who move at a slower pace

Some experiences may include:

• Periods of standing or walking

• Characteristic whiskey aromas and sensory elements

• Potential changes in noise level or lighting in certain areas

If any of these might affect you, please let us know beforehand so we can discuss options.

8. Sensory Information

While specific conditions may vary by season and event, visitors can generally expect:

• Ambient noise from other visitors, tours and tastings

• Whiskey-related smells and aromas as part of the experience

• Areas that may have lower or variable lighting, depending on the exhibition design

If you are sensitive to noise, lighting or strong smells, we encourage you to contact us before booking. We will do our best to advise quieter times or suggest adjustments where possible.

9. Assistance Animals

• Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the visitor centre.

• We provide a dog bowl on site for water or feeding.

• If you are visiting with an assistance dog, you can let us know in advance so we can help plan a comfortable visit for both you and your dog.

10. Digital & Online Accessibility

We are committed to making our website and online booking system accessible:

• We aim to conform to WCAG 2.1 Level AA (or the latest accepted national standard).

• We follow relevant Irish and EU guidance on digital accessibility.

• We use a combination of automated tools, manual checks and assistive-technology testing and act on user feedback.

If you experience any difficulty accessing information on our website or booking system:

• Email: info@portmageewhiskey.ie

• We will provide the information you need in an alternative format where possible.

11. Staff Support & Training

Our front-of-house team receive training in:

• Disability awareness and inclusive customer service

• How to offer and provide assistance respectfully

• How to use accessibility equipment safely where relevant

If you need help at any point during your visit, please speak to a member of staff – we are here to help.

12. Feedback & Improving Accessibility

We are committed to continual improvement in accessibility.

• We welcome feedback from visitors about any aspect of accessibility at Portmagee Whiskey.

• We review this guide and our policies regularly and use guest feedback, accessibility advice and Fáilte Ireland resources to plan improvements.

To provide feedback or make a complaint regarding accessibility:

Email: info@portmageewhiskey.ie

We aim to:

• Acknowledge feedback within 5 working days

• Investigate any issues raised

• Let you know about actions we will take where possible