Equipment Rentals

Manual Wheelchair Rental

Manual wheelchairs are the most commonly rented mobility aid in London. Several companies offer standard folding chairs that are easy to take on buses, in taxis, and through attraction entrances.

• Daily rate: 15 to 30 GBP per day.
• Weekly rate: 50 to 120 GBP per week.
• What to expect: Lightweight folding frame, removable footrests, and brakes. Specify your weight and height when booking so you get the right size.

Most rental companies deliver directly to your hotel, apartment, or airport terminal. Return works the same way: they pick it up from your accommodation.

Power Wheelchair Rental

Electric (power) wheelchairs provide independence for users who cannot self-propel. They are heavier than manual chairs and need overnight charging, but they handle London's distances much better.

• Daily rate: 40 to 80 GBP per day.
• Weekly rate: 180 to 400 GBP per week.
• Battery range: Most rental power chairs manage 15 to 25 km on a full charge, which is enough for a full day of sightseeing.
• Charger: Included with the rental. UK outlets use Type G plugs (three rectangular pins). If you are coming from abroad, you will not need an adapter for the charger since one will be provided for UK sockets.

Mobility Scooter Rental

Scooters are a good option for travelers who can walk short distances but need help covering longer stretches. London's flat central areas suit scooters well, though narrow pavements in older neighborhoods can be tight.

• Daily rate: 30 to 65 GBP per day.
• Weekly rate: 120 to 300 GBP per week.
• Types: Three-wheel (better for indoor use) and four-wheel (more stable on uneven ground).
• Transport note: Folding mobility scooters are allowed on London buses and some Tube stations, but full-size scooters are not permitted on the Underground. Check TfL's rules before booking.

Rental Companies in London

London Wheelchair Hire

Specializes in wheelchair and scooter rentals for visitors. They offer manual and electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and bathroom aids. Free delivery and collection across central London.

• Online booking available.
• Equipment demonstration on delivery.
• Airport delivery at Heathrow and Gatwick for an additional fee.

Mobility Hire Direct

Offers a wide range of mobility equipment including wheelchairs, scooters, hoists, riser recliners, and profiling beds. They cover Greater London and the surrounding counties.

• Delivery to hotels, holiday rentals, or private addresses.
• Same-day hire available in some cases.
• Flexible rental periods from one day to several months.

National Trust and English Heritage Sites

Several heritage attractions have free wheelchairs available on-site for visitors. The Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, and Kew Gardens all offer manual wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis. These cannot be reserved, so arrive early if you plan to use one.

Airport Rental Options

If you want a wheelchair or scooter waiting when you land, several companies deliver to London airports.

• Heathrow: Delivery to any terminal arrivals hall. Coordinate a meeting point in advance. Allow at least 45 minutes after landing for customs and baggage.
• Gatwick: Delivery available at both North and South terminals.
• Stansted and Luton: Fewer delivery options. Hotel delivery in London is usually simpler from these airports.
• Airport delivery fee: Typically 30 to 50 GBP each way on top of the rental price.

Equipment at Major Attractions

Many London attractions lend wheelchairs to visitors free of charge:

• British Museum: Free manual wheelchairs at the information desk.
• Tate Modern: Free wheelchairs at the welcome desk on Level 0.
• Natural History Museum: Free wheelchairs available at the main entrance.
• V&A Museum: Free wheelchairs at the Grand Entrance desk.

These are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved. If you need a chair for your entire visit, renting your own is more reliable.

Pricing Overview