Relaxed Day @ Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh
2025-02-23 10:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS, United Kingdom
Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre & Planetarium, is holding Relaxed Opening Hours on 23rd February. The Relaxed Opening Hours aim to provide a calm and inclusive environment for visitors; designed for those who would benefit from a more relaxed visit, but open to everyone. These sessions prioritise sensory comfort without compromising on the overall Dynamic Earth experience.
During Relaxed Opening hours, the following changes will be made:

Reduced visitor numbers throughout the day.
Alterations to lighting and audio features.
Additional accessibility resources available, including sensory bags, social stories and sensory maps.
Disability and neurodiversity awareness training for staff.
Captions on all videos, and BSL interpretation on the 3pm Planetarium show.
A wide range of sensory aids
Flexible admission to our tour and Planetarium.
Designated quiet space for visitors to use.
If you have any specific needs, please contact us beforehand so we can provide the best possible experience for you.

Orchids Quiet Sessions @ Kew Gardens, London
2025-02-24 11:00 - 12:00 | Kew Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, London, Surrey, TW9 3JR, United Kingdom
Enjoy Orchids with reduced crowds in our quiet sessions for our disabled and neurodiverse visitors.
We are closing the Princess of Wales Conservatory to the public to allow visitors with special educational needs, disabilities like Autism Spectrum Condition, conditions like dementia, and/or sensory processing needs to have a more comfortable visit.
During the quiet sessions, we will be permitting fewer people than our usual time slots and ensuring easy access to avoid potentially stressful queues.
This year we celebrate Peru, one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, with its landscapes ranging from beaches and deserts to mountains, valleys and rainforests.

Accessibility
Mobility scooters are not permitted in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, but we can provide wheelchairs for visitors to use on arrival.
Please note that not all of the glasshouse is wheelchair accessible, but all locations pertaining to the orchids festival are.
Accessibility at Kew

Relaxed Evening Event: Egyptian death and afterlife @ British Museum, London
2025-02-24 18:30 - 20:00 | British Museum, London, WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom
This event welcomes people with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals and anyone with sensory needs seeking a calmer environment in which to view the upper floor Egyptian galleries (Rooms 61–66).
Join us for a relaxed evening at the Museum, devoted to exploring death and the afterlife, which held particular significance and meaning for the ancient Egyptians. Mummification, magic and ritual are investigated through the objects on display in the galleries.
These include mummies, coffins, funerary masks, portraits and other items designed to be buried with the deceased. We’ll look at small figures called shabtis, buried to magically provide for the deceased and help them pass into the afterlife, as well as animals sacred to the gods, like bulls, crocodiles, cats and falcons, which were also mummified.
Please be aware that these galleries include human remains. The British Museum is committed to curating human remains with care, respect and dignity. Find out more about human remains at the British Museum.
Booking information

Book now(Opens in new window) to secure your place
Please meet at the Montague Place entrance at 6.30pm. View the Museum map(Opens in new window) for more information
Carers and Disabled people’s companions do not need to book a ticket
Assistance dogs are very welcome in the Museum
If you have any access requirements or need assistance booking this event please email access@britishmuseum.org or phone +44 (0)20 7323 8971

Scheduled dates

February 2025

Monday 10 February
Times:18.30–20.00Status:

Monday 24 February
Times:18.30–20.00

Relaxed afternoons for adults (autism and learning disability friendly) @ Portrait, Scotland
2025-02-25 14:00 - 15:00 | Portrait Scotland, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD, United Kingdom
Relaxed afternoons for adults (autism and learning disability friendly)

Portrait
Tuesday 25 February 2025, 2–3pm
Free
Booking Essential
Book tickets

Join us at the Portrait for regular, relaxed, sensory-friendly afternoons for adults with additional support needs, including autistic adults and those with learning disabilities. At these sessions you can meet other people, see artworks in our gallery spaces and take part in creative activities.
There will be a quiet, comfortable space available at all times for you to use.
Places are free but limited so please book online.  Only one ticket is needed per participant, companions do not need a ticket.
For more information or assistance please contact us on 0131 624 6410 or learning@nationalgalleries.org
Watch an introduction to the gallery
Download sensory map

Relaxed sessions: Entire Museum @ Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter
2025-02-28 17:00 - 18:00 | Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery, Exeter, EX4 3RX, United Kingdom
Relaxed sessions: Entire Museum

Home > What’s on > Relaxed sessions: Entire Museum

A Relaxed Session is a good way to enjoy the museum at a quieter pace.
These times are especially suited to people with autism, anxiety and associated conditions. Everyone is welcome at RAMM.
Numbers are limited to create a calmer atmosphere, so book before you travel to be sure of your place.
Relaxed sessions will take place on-

Tuesday 28 Jan, 9.30am to 10.30am
Friday 28 Feb, 17:00-18:00

If you are unable to use pre-booked tickets, they can be transferred to a later Relaxed session time/date (space permitting).
Entry via the Queen Street entrance at the front of the building. Toilets will be open and are fully accessible.
Ear defenders are free to borrow. If you need to step into a separate calm area during your visit, just ask at Reception.
Get in touch on ramm.enquiries@exeter.gov.uk or ask at Reception for more information.
See our access page for visual stories to prepare your visit.

Event Information

Dates and Times

28 January 2025 9.30 to – 10.30am
28 February 2025 5 to – 6pm

Price
Free

Location
RAMM

Event Types
Families & Children

Book Now

Relaxed Early Opening @ Household Cavalry Museum, London
2025-03-01 09:15 - 11:15 | Household Cavalry Museum, London, Greater London, SW1A 2AX, United Kingdom
Would you like to visit the Household Cavalry Museum in a more relaxed way? Why not come to one of our early opening sessions and enjoy the collection without the usual sounds.

Tuesday 18 February 2025 from 9.15am -11.15 am
Saturday 1 March 2025 from 9.15am -11.15 am
About Relaxed Early Opening…

Enjoy our early morning opening for those families who prefer to visit the museum at a quiet time.
Primarily for, but not limited to, those families who have a child with autism, or children with social emotional or mental health needs, or those who prefer a more relaxed visit.
The museum opens for a quiet hour on Tuesday February 18th 2025 from 9.15am -11.15 am when the video sounds will be turned off to reduce sensory impact. The interactive and videos will be turned back on at 11.15am when you are welcome to remain for longer if you wish.
Families are able to explore the Museum and Horse Guards Parade before the daily duties of the Household Cavalry begin and also take part in a family trail if they wish.
To ensure the Museum is as welcoming as possible, there will be:

Sensory backpacks will be available free of charge from the Main Admission.
A quiet space available
Sensory tables in the stables set up to look and feel.
Turn off our loud sound and videos.
Turn off loud hand-dryers and replace them with disposable hand-towels.

You can access our online visual story before visiting to ensure you make the most of your experience.
Download our visual story here

This event has been made possible by the Family Friendly Grant from the Museum Development London.

Relaxed Hour @ Showtown, Blackpool
2025-03-08 09:00 - 10:00 | Showtown, Blackpool, Blackpool, FY1 4TQ, United Kingdom
Showtown Relaxed Hour
Our relaxed hour is perfect for visitors who prefer a calmer environment and would like to enjoy the museum without the hustle and bustle of the general public. We will lower sounds and sensory activities will be available for visitors to enjoy.
Who is the Showtown Sensory Hour for?
These events are for our visitors with additional and/or sensory needs. Any age welcome, but tickets must be booked in advance.
Further Information

Showtown Relaxed Hour is a monthly event.
Visitors will be free to explore the museum at their leisure. Your ticket includes the access event and a further one hour (10-11am) in the museum if desired.
Our learning space will provide a quiet zone for any visitors that need a break.

Please note, this is an event ticket and therefore will NOT work as an annual pass.
Gallery Highlights:
Visitors will be free to explore the whole museum, but each monthly session will highlight and celebrate a particular gallery. In that gallery, we will have audio descriptive and/or touch tours on offer and BSL interpretation.
If you would like to discuss any special requirements you may need for your visit, please email us to discuss at info@showtownblackpool.co.uk

Book tickets >

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Event times
Saturday 14th December 2024, 9am – 10am
Saturday 8th February 2025, 9am – 10am
Saturday 8th March 2025, 9am – 10am

Tickets
Adult – £7
Child – £5
Concession (senior aged 65+, student with ID) – £5
Carer – FREE
Resident Adult – FREE
Resident Child – FREE

Showtown Blackpool
Bank Hey Street,
Blackpool
FY1 4TQ

Relaxed Opening @ Tower Bridge, London
2025-03-08 09:30 - 11:30 | Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP
Relaxed Opening
Experience a quieter and calmer Tower Bridge.

Booking information

Upcoming dates:

Saturday 8 Feb
Saturday 8 Mar

Time: 9:30 – 11:30. The attraction will open to the general public at 11:30 but you are welcome to stay for as long as you like.
Price: Standard entry charge
Guarantee your entry to Tower Bridge by booking your tickets online.
Book now

About Relaxed Opening

On the second Saturday of every month, we host Relaxed Opening for anyone who would like to explore the Bridge in a calm, tranquil atmosphere, including people with autism and other neurodiverse needs, as well as their siblings, families and carers.
Families are able to explore the Towers, Glass Floors and Engine Rooms and also take part in a family trail if they wish.
To ensure the Bridge is as welcoming as possible, we:

Limit the number of people in the Bridge
Turn off loud hand-dryers and replace them with disposable hand-towels
Turn off loud soundscapes and video
Run regular disability awareness sessions with our staff
Provide visual story to help you plan your visit, available here.
Have Access Toolkits around the Bridge, which contain sensory items to help to assist visitors who may be overwhelmed due to the new environment.

A full list of Access features inside the Tower Bridge can be found on the Access for All page.
For any questions about the event please contact learning@towerbridge.org.uk or 020 7940 8397.

Relaxed Evening Event: Picasso: Printmaker @ British Museum, London
2025-03-10 18:30 - 20:00 | British Museum, London, WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom
This event welcomes people with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals and anyone with sensory needs seeking a calmer environment in which to view the Picasso: printmaker exhibition.
Pablo Picasso (1881–1973) was one of the most inventive and influential talents ever to explore the medium of print.
In addition to his many paintings, sculptures and drawings, the Málaga-born artist made over 2,400 prints during his career. From his early years as an artist in Paris to his old age in the South of France, printmaking offered Picasso the opportunity to develop ideas, tell stories and embark on new creative adventures.
This exhibition offers insights into Picasso’s life through his art, including his complex relationships with women and his partnerships with printers, publishers and other artists. Spanning his entire career, it follows his engagement with different printmaking techniques and his changing approaches to making art.
This event is part of the public programme supporting the exhibition Picasso: printmaker (open until 30 March 2025).
Booking information

Book now(Opens in new window)  to secure your place.
Please meet at the Montague Place entrance at 6.30pm. View the Museum map(Opens in new window) for more information.
Carers and Disabled people’s companions do not need to book a ticket.
Assistance dogs are very welcome in the Museum.
If you have any access requirements or need assistance booking this event please email access@britishmuseum.org or phone +44 (0)20 7323 8971.

Accessible Morning Visits to Wildlife Photographer of the Year @ Natural History Museum, London
2025-03-12 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-03-22 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-03-26 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-04-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Natural History Museum, London, SW7 5BD, United Kingdom
Accessible Morning Visits to Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Disabled visitors can see the newest edition of Wildlife Photographer of the Year away from daytime crowds.

Book your tickets

South Kensington, London

10.00–11.00 every other Wednesday and Saturday

Adult: £18, Child: £10.95

Experience breathtaking photography away from our busy daytime crowds at one of our relaxed early morning sessions, designed specifically for our disabled and neurodiverse visitors.
With a reduced capacity, careful lighting and low noise levels, these sessions are a perfect opportunity to explore the planet’s habitats, from sprawling urban metropolises to the deep polar seas, and meet the creatures that rely on these places.
Come face to face with species at risk of extinction as well as those we’ve brought back from the brink. See first-hand how human activities, both good and bad, are shaping the natural world we rely on.
With soundscapes, videos, expert insights and stunning photography, you’ll leave not only awe-inspired by the beauty and diversity of nature but also hopefully with a renewed drive to do what you can to protect it.

Off-peak ticket prices
Monday to Friday, excluding school holidays and bank holidays.
Adult (17–59): £15.50
Child (4–16): £9.25
Senior 60+: £12.50
Jobseeker: £12.50
Student: £7.95
Disabled adult: £12.50
Disabled child: £7.50
Art Fund adult: £7.95
Art Fund child: £4.50
Art Fund concession: £6.25

Peak ticket prices
Weekends, school holidays and bank holidays.
Adult (17–59): £18
Child (4–16): £10.95
Senior 60+: £14.50
Jobseeker: £14.50
Student: £14.50
Disabled adult: £14.50
Disabled child: £8.50
Art Fund adult: £9
Art Fund child: £5.50
Art Fund concession: £7.25

Deaf Science Day @ Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh
2025-03-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS, United Kingdom
Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre & Planetarium, is hosting Deaf Science Day on Wednesday 12th March.
In collaboration with the Scottish Sensory Centre at Edinburgh University, Dynamic Earth will open its doors with special adjustments made with Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors in mind as part of our first ever Deaf Science Day.
What to Expect:

Subtitled exhibits throughout the day
Brightened spaces to ensure interpreters are easily visible
Planetarium shows with BSL interpretation
School workshops delivered in BSL by inspiring Deaf scientists

At Dynamic Earth, we believe everyone can be a problem solver of the future! This event is a unique opportunity to inspire curiosity and creativity in science while making adjustments to ensure Deaf visitors feel welcome and engaged.
Tickets can be purchased on the day at Dynamic Earth.

Access Friendly Day @ The Story Museum, Oxford
2025-03-15 10:00 - 16:30 | The Story Museum, Oxford, OX1 1BP
Access-friendly Day

Suitable for all

Join us for our Access-friendly Museum Day and enjoy a chance to explore all the Museum Galleries (including Small Worlds) for a single entry ticket. Our Access-friendly days are suitable for everyone.

Enjoy a day of access to both the Galleries and Small Worlds with a single ticket and explore the Museum in whatever way best suits you and your family. Our access-friendly days are suitable for all families but particularly those who prefer a more relaxed experience as the museum spaces will run with adjusted lighting and sounds and the tickets are limited to keep numbers small.
Entry is by timed ticket to help avoid crowds and includes entry to both the Galleries (including our Here Be Dragons exhibition in the Treasure Chamber) and Small Worlds.
If you’d like to find out more about our Access-friendly Day or have any specific enquiries, please send us an email.

Lunchtime Lectures: Neurodivergence and Creativity @ V&A, London
2025-03-20 13:00 - 13:55 | V&A, London, SW7 2RL, United Kingdom
Lunchtime Lectures: Neurodivergence and Creativity
This talk is part of the V&A Academy Lunchtime Lecture Series. No booking is required.

Talk

Thursday, 20 March 2025

V&A South Kensington

Free

+44 (0)20 7942 2000

Thursday, 20 March 2025

13.00 – 13.55

V&A South Kensington
Cromwell Road
London, SW7 2RL

Lydia and Manfred Gorvy Lecture Theatre

Free event

DYSPLA & Frankie Brady, Enfield is Disabled (2024)
Is there a link between Neurodivergence and Creativity? How important is Neurodivergence within our creative industries? Can the creative industries survive without Neurodivergence? In this talk, Artist, Dr. Katherine Hewlett MBE of the Charity, AchieveAbility, and Award Winning & Arts Council England supported Artist Lennie Varvarides of DYSPLA, will explore the ‘value’ of Neurodivergence in Creativity and how cognitive diversity is essential to innovation in our creative industries and wider society. Specially commissioned digital artwork, created by DYSPLA Artist, Kazimir Bielecki, will be screened alongside speakers.
AchieveAbility is a charity committed to working with adults who are neurodivergent and dyslexic. To do this, we work with our partners by providing opportunities for published research-informed work and by delivering practice in the fields of: employment, education, training, social justice and cultural change.
DYSPLA is a Neurodivergent-led, award-winning arts studio producing and developing the work of Neurodivergent storymakers. Supported by the Arts Council England to create short form narrative and digital art research to elucidate the Neurodivergent Aesthetic.
This event is taking place during Neurodiversity Celebration Week 17 – 23 March 2025 ‘Celebrating Different Minds.’

Early Birds @ Science Museum, London
2025-03-22 08:00 - 11:00 | Science Museum, SW7 2DD
Early Birds is a sensory friendly event for families with members who need a quieter environment to enjoy the museum.
Early Birds visitors will also have an opportunity to book tickets to lower capacity sessions in Wonderlab at a reduced rate.
Wonderlab and Power Up will be available to Early Birds Visitors for a reduced fee.
Book tickets now
Future dates
Saturday 15 February 2025 18.30 – 21.30
Saturday 22 March 2025 08.00 – 11.00
Sign up to our Accessible newsletter to be the first to hear when new dates are announced and tickets are available.
More about Early Birds
This event is suitable for those who benefit from visiting the museum free from the hustle and bustle of the general public (for example, individuals with autism spectrum conditions or sensory processing differences).
Taking place on selected Saturdays and Sundays across the year, we open the museum exclusively before or after hours, and wherever possible will have adjusted operations and/or lowered volume levels on exhibits.
As well as exploring some of the galleries, you can enjoy a selection of fun workshops in a gallery space. There will also be quiet areas for those needing to take a break. More details on exactly what to expect on the day will be sent out in advance of each Early Birds event.
The Early Birds accessible events are completely free and suitable for families with children aged 4–15. Siblings are welcome to attend, but all children and adults attending the event will need to book.
Information
Free Accessible event
Date: Saturday 11 January 2024
Time: 8.00 – 11.00
Price: Free but booking required
Book now
In this page
FAQs

Sensory Friendly: Design and Draw with Light @ V&A, London
2025-03-22 11:00 - 16:00 | V&A, London, SW7 2RL, United Kingdom
Sensory Friendly: Design and Draw with Light
Take part in these free child and family workshops for visitors with a neurodiversity or sensory processing disorder and their families, get creative and have fun!

Drop-in

Saturday, 22 March 2025

V&A South Kensington

Free

Book now

+44 (0)20 7942 2000

Saturday, 22 March 2025

11.00 – 16.00

V&A South Kensington
Cromwell Road
London, SW7 2RL

Art Studio, Learning Centre

Download brochure

Families
Families with children over 5

Free event
All materials provided.

Book now

Come along to our Sensory Friendly: Design and Draw with light, a new monthly workshop for neurodiverse visitors of all ages and their families. Join this session to explore drawing and designing with light!
As a family you’ll get to design, make and draw using lightboxes and overhead projectors. Play with light and dark, reflections, shadows, and colours. Create and experiment using a mixture of different art materials to make colourful projections in the space.
If you need a break, there will be a breakout space available through the day, with one within the event space and the other nearby. This space will have: a blackout tent, cushions, sensory toys, and ear defenders.
All activities are optional, and you can visit at any point during the event timings, between 11am – 4pm. However, please book your tickets to give us an idea if you’re likely to visit us earlier 11am-1:30pm, or later in the day 1:30-4pm.
This session is inspired by Rachel Sale 2024 Adobe’s Illustration resident at South Kensington V&A, and the Museum’s collection. These sessions are created and led by Groundswell Arts.
This is an activity for families where either a child or the parent/ carer/ guardian has a neurodiversity or sensory processing disorder. This is a free, drop-in event for families to enjoy all together; no child can be left unattended. Suitable for ages 5+.

Image credit: Groundswell Arts Shadows 2 – Credit Anna Gordon

Please click on ‘download brochure’ on the right-hand side if you’d like to find out more about Groundswell Arts and the rest of the team supporting the events on the day. You’ll also find a visual story to prepare for your visit.

All materials will be provided, all sourced sustainably. No previous creative experience is necessary.

Siblings, family members, and carers, of all ages are all welcome (please book a space for each child attending).

The Museum is accessible and step-free. Please find further information by clicking here

Springtime Sensory Storytelling (Profound disability-friendly) @ National Galleries Scotland - Modern One
2025-03-22 14:00 - 16:00 | National Galleries Scotland, Edinburgh, EH4 3DS
Springtime Sensory Storytelling (Profound disability-friendly)
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Modern One
Saturday 22 March 2025, 2pm & 3pm
Free
Booking essential
Book tickets
Join us for a fully inclusive multisensory storytelling event for people of all ages with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their families, friends and supporters. Let’s celebrate the springtime with storyteller Maureen Phillip from PAMIS.
Places are free, but limited, please book online. Only one ticket is needed per group. For more information or assistance please contact us on 0131 624 6410 or learning@nationalgalleries.org.
Watch an introduction to the gallery
Download sensory map (PDF)

Relaxed Viewing: Brasil! Brasil! @ Royal Academy of Arts, London
2025-03-23 09:00 - 10:00 | Royal Academy of Arts, London, W1J 0BD
Relaxed viewing: Brasil! Brasil!
Sunday 23 March 2025 9 – 10am
Main Galleries | Burlington House

communities
access events

Join us for a relaxed viewing of Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism.

Our relaxed viewings are open to anyone who may not feel comfortable during busier opening hours, such as disabled and neurodivergent visitors, those with sensory processing needs, their families, friends, and support staff.
Explore this major exhibition featuring over 130 works by ten important Brazilian artists from the twentieth century, capturing the diversity of Brazilian art at the time.
This is a self-guided exhibition visit, with flexible re-entry to take breaks throughout the relaxed hour. A quiet area with a range of sensory aids will be open for the full duration.
If you have any questions about our relaxed viewing offer, please email communities@royalacademy.org.uk.
Ticketing
The event is free, but all tickets must be pre-booked to ensure capacity is appropriate.
We welcome and encourage community group bookings. Please email communities@royalacademy.org.uk to request.
Plan your visit
To find out more about access at the RA, including how to book a blue badge parking space, head to our visitor information page.
A visual story about our facilities is available.
Download a sensory map of our buildings.

Sensory Friendly Sunday @ Portrait, Scotland
2025-03-23 10:30 - 12:00 | Portrait Scotland, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD, United Kingdom
Sensory-friendly Sunday
Autism and learning disability friendly

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Portrait
Sunday 23 March 2025, 10.30–12noon
Free
No booking required

Meet other families, explore the galleries and take part in creative activities.
This morning workshop is for families. It is autism and learning disability friendly.
Watch an introduction to the gallery
Download sensory map

Relaxed afternoons for adults (autism and learning disability friendly) @ Portrait, Scotland
2025-03-25 14:00 - 15:00 | Portrait Scotland, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD, United Kingdom
Relaxed afternoons for adults (autism and learning disability friendly)

Portrait
Tuesday 25 March 2025, 2–3pm
Free
Booking Essential
Book tickets

Join us at the Portrait for regular, relaxed, sensory-friendly afternoons for adults with additional support needs, including autistic adults and those with learning disabilities. At these sessions you can meet other people, see artworks in our gallery spaces and take part in creative activities.
There will be a quiet, comfortable space available at all times for you to use.
Places are free but limited so please book online.  Only one ticket is needed per participant, companions do not need a ticket.
For more information or assistance please contact us on 0131 624 6410 or learning@nationalgalleries.org
Watch an introduction to the gallery
Download sensory map

Relaxed Opening Morning @ The Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth
2025-03-27 10:00 - 12:00 | The Mary Rose, Portsmouth, PO1 3PY
Relaxed Opening Morning

When
Sunday 29th Dec 2024,
Thursday 30th Jan 2025,
Sunday 23rd Feb 2025,
Thursday 27th Mar 2025

Time
–

Price
Free with a valid Mary Rose Museum ticket

Event type
Accessibility events

For
Visitors with visual impairment or other medical and physical conditions, such as autism or dementia

Every month we hold Relaxed Opening Mornings, where from 10am-12 noon the lights in the museum will be at a higher level, and sound effects will be turned down. As always our wonderful team of volunteers and staff will be on hand to guide you through the experience.
The environment within the Mary Rose Museum is designed to create a stunning atmosphere and display, as well as helping protect the delicate collection of objects within the gallery showcases. However, we understand that visitors with a visual impairment or those with other medical and physical conditions, such as autism or dementia, can find our lighting levels, as well as the sound effects, to be a challenge.
At this higher lighting level, some visual displays may not be so effective, so guests wishing to enjoy the full immersive experience and displays would be advised to visit us after 12 noon on these specific days.

Noises Off Morning @ Army Flying Museum, Hampshire
2025-03-31 09:00 - 12:30 | Army Flying Museum, Stockbridge, SO20 8FB, United Kingdom
Noises Off Morning

9am to 12.30pm on the last Monday of the month

Book Now

Our ‘Noises Off’ mornings run on the last Monday of the month between 9am and 12.30pm, however, please check the sessions by clicking on the button below because we occasionally have to cancel/move a session.
On these mornings sound effects in the Museum will be turned off, or down, so that visitors that may have sensory processing issues can explore in a quieter environment. Our booking system will also ensure that the Museum isn’t crowded on these mornings. We would advise visitors who wish to experience our normal sound effects and Helicopters in Action show to avoid visiting on these mornings, which will be marked on our booking system.
You can find information about what to expect when visiting the Museum and read our Accessibility statement HERE.

Digital Future Days: Relaxed Opening/ Home Educators Day @ The National Museum of Computing, Milton Keynes
2025-04-02 10:30 - 15:00 | The National Museum of Computing, MK3 6EB
Date and time

Wed, 2 Apr 2025 10:30 – 15:00 BST

Location

The National Museum of Computing
Block H, Bletchley Park Sherwood Drive Bletchley MK3 6EB
Show map

Refund Policy

Contact the organiser to request a refund.
Eventbrite’s fee is nonrefundable.

About this event

Event lasts 4 hours 30 minutes

What is a Relaxed Opening/Home Educator day?
Our special Relaxed Openings are created for families within the neurodiverse community, giving them the opportunity to explore the Museum together in a calm environment. Our Relaxed Opening Days are particularly suited to visitors with autism or other special needs, who are welcome to attend with their siblings, parents and/or carers. The Museum will be closed to the public with quiet areas set aside especially for you.
On the Day:
Home to the world’s largest collection of working historic computers, at The National Museum of Computing the evolution of computing will unfold before your eyes. You will journey from the early electro-mechanical code-breaking machines of WWII and the world’s first entirely digital semi-programmable computer to the advent of mainframes in the 1950s and the rise of personal computing, mobile computing and the internet towards the end of the 20th century.
During your visit, you will also have access to a variety of special STEM-focused activities, including programming, robotics and virtual reality. Please see the schedule below for more details. All activities are drop-in sessions, so stay for as long as you wish.
To help you prepare for your visit, you might like to view our Visual Story and Sensory Map at https://www.tnmoc.org/accessibility.
Activities will be offered as drop-in sessions so learners can self-direct without the pressure of a formal schedule. Activities will include options for every age.
Self-Guided Museum Explorations:
Museum Mate Digital Museum Guide (All ages)
You will have the opportunity to use our newly developed TNMCO Mate app in collaboration with Version 1, which makes navigating the Museum easy. The guide is user-friendly and offers clear directions. Users can choose their age and preferred language from the menu to make sure they get age-appropriate guidance in their first language. The guide includes audio and engaging animated visuals created by ‘Midjourney’ and D-ID, the AI Video Generator.
Robot Rescue! (6-10 years) – George the Robot is playing hide and seek with his friends but has forgotten how to walk. Explore the Museum and find all our mini-bots before their batteries run out and they’re lost forever! Grab a worksheet from the front of the Museum to record all of the mini-bot locations for George and fill in the missing words to identify a secret message which can only be deciphered using an actual Enigma machine!
Treasure Hunt (6+ years) – Become a geo-cacher using the Adventure Lab app and hunt for treasure boxes around the Museum. Decode our computer-related ding-bats to find the missing letters that form an anagram to win a small prize in our shop.
Interactive Digital Trails (11+ years):
Gain a greater understanding of computing by undertaking our interactive digital trails, developed in partnership with Learning by Questions. Please bring your own device, limited iPads available.
Codename: Cipher [Enigma & The Bombe] – The year is 1940 and you have been invited to Bletchley Park to assist in the war effort. Your first assignment is to catch the undercover spy operating out of the UK known only as Codename Cipher.
Data Representation – From 5-hole punch tape to Python! Explore how programming languages have progressed over the decades and solve puzzles using them to choose your favourite.
Internet Explorers – Historical points of interest offer a timeline for networked communications development.
Women in Computing – Discover the inspirational achievements of past and present Women in Computing and explore their impact on the industry in this interactive museum exploration.
Drop-In Workshops:
Sphero’s, hosted by the RAF Youth & STEM Team(1st Generation Gallery) -Engage in an exciting journey with Sphero’s gyroscopic robot balls, blending coding and creativity! Explore the digital realm by guiding your robots through the physical world, fostering hands-on learning of coding. Develop problem-solving skills as you direct your robot through progressively intricate instructions. Unleash your imagination and enjoy the playful process of programming with Sphero.
Retro Programming (BBC Classroom) – Go back in time to our 80s classroom and build an understanding of programming languages by creating customisable games on our original, working BBC Micros.
Beginner’s Coding (Innovation Hub) – Learn coding skills on our pocket-sized Micro:Bit computers to create LED images activated by buttons or ‘shake’ sensors. They can even communicate with each other! Follow user-friendly tutorials and get hands-on.
Minecraft for Education (Innovation Hub) – explore the immersive world of Minecraft, where basic computing skills are introduced and you can even explore a virtual computing museum. Join us for an unforgettable journey where education meets entertainment, igniting passion and creativity in every participant.
Timetabled Sessions:
Aerospace Engineering (Meeting Room) 11:00am – 11:45am , 2:00pm – 2:45pm
Calling all young space enthusiasts! Discover the magic of Aerospace Engineering in our captivating workshop and unleash your potential with engineering kit to explore solutions for the resource demands of our digital world. Unravel the mysteries of material scarcity while nurturing teamwork and innovation. Together, we’ll ponder the ethics of resource gathering from Mars. Get ready for an educational journey that will leave you reaching for the stars!
Career Advice for Young Adults (Meeting Room) 11:00am – 3:00pm
Based in the beautiful Malvern hills, IASME work alongside a network of almost 300 expert organisations across the UK and Crown Dependencies to help advise and certify organisations of all sizes in cyber security. IASME is committed to helping businesses improve their cyber security, risk management and good governance through an effective and accessible range of certifications:

Cyber Essentials which is an effective UK Government scheme. Cyber Essentials is now widely recognised as the minimum baseline level of cyber security for organisations of all sizes.
IASME is a delivery partner for NCSC Cyber Incident Exercising Scheme.
The IASME Cyber Assurance standard, which is a comprehensive, flexible and affordable cyber security standard.
The IASME IoT Cyber scheme which certifies internet connected devices against the most important security controls.
The Maritime Cyber Baseline scheme which is designed to certify the cyber security of all commercial vessels and is accessible to operators and vessels of all sizes from across the world.
The Civil Aviation authorities ASSURE scheme which provides the aviation industry with a mechanism to manage their cyber security risks.

As well as training unemployed Neurodivergent adults to fill roles in the cyber security industry the focus on support and protection for all also runs internally. With a culture of well-being and inclusion that makes IASME one of the most inclusive companies to work for in its sector. IASME won the Diversity Award at the National Cyber Awards 2023 and diversity is found at all levels of the company, including senior managers. The company is headed by a female CEO and 49% of the company are women. 47% of IASME employees identify as neurodivergent and 28% of the team have a disability and this is supported by flexible working practices.
Timings:
10:30am – 3:00pm (workshops will start at 11am)
We are delighted that we are able to offer these sessions to you at a low cost due to the support of our dedicated volunteers and industry partners.
For any queries or further information please contact education@tnmoc.org. Alternatively, you can contact the Museum via telephone on 01908 374708.
What people say about our Relaxed Opening Days:
My sons had a super time, the interactive activities were great and kept them both engaged. Your team were most helpful and great with the children.
Our boys both loved it… Ordinarily, after a few hours one son is on edge, on the verge of overload. They say living with autism is like living life in a disco … I want to comment about your staff, … They were utterly brilliant. Patient, understanding, and tremendously knowledgeable, they explained things in such an accessible way, that there was always someone available.
My seven-year-old and my friend’s two boys had a wonderful time and I really appreciated the opportunity for them to enjoy something they would otherwise find quite challenging.
They obviously loved the gaming areas and enjoyed making the stickman hit the fruit. The staff in the BBC [micro] area were lovely. In fact, the tips about getting children coding have already been implemented and they have been using the site that was recommended. My husband wants to come next time!
A huge thank you for organising the relaxed session. It makes a huge difference to families like mine to be able to get out.

Autism-Friendly Opening @ Oxford University Museum of Natural History
2025-04-05 09:00 - 10:00 | Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Oxford, OX1 3PW
Autism Friendly Opening

Saturday, 5 April 2025
09:00 – 10:00
This is a free event but booking is required. To book your place(s) please email: education@oum.ox.ac.uk.

About the event
A relaxed morning opening for families with members on the Autism Spectrum to explore the Museum collections in a quiet environment. More information, including a visual guide, will be emailed to attendees a week prior to the event to help you to prepare for your visit. Please note that although this is a relaxed opening there may still be noises in the Museum so please bring along ear protectors if required. This is a joint event with the Pitt Rivers Museum.

Accessibility information

Wheelchair accessible?
Yes

Hearing loops?
No

Seating?
Yes

Refreshments?
No

Flashing lights?
No

Loud noises?
No

For more information, please visit our accessibility webpage.

Museums, My Way @ The Museum of English Rural Life, Reading
2025-04-07 10:00 - 14:00 | Museum of English Rural Life, Reading, RG1 5EX
Museums, My Way

Themed sessions for neurodivergent visitors of all ages

Booking Details
Booking required, link coming soon

Details

Date:
April 7
Time:

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Cost:
Free
Event Category:
Events and workshops

Venue

The Museum of English Rural Life

The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road
Reading, Berkshire RG1 5EX United Kingdom + Google Map

Free sessions developed with Autism Berkshire
“This was our first (museum) event and to be honest I felt quite emotional. I was touched by such a supportive environment and welcoming faces. Thank you!”
Join us for this free, bookable session which will take place on a Monday when the museum is closed to the public. Siblings, families, carers and friends are all welcome. All activities are optional and you can visit at any point within the event times.
The session will offer:

sensory backpacks and ear defenders
break out spaces
themed facilitated hands-on activity
themed gallery trail

Please visit our Museums, My Way page to find out more about the Museums Partnership Reading programme at The MERL, Reading Museum and other partner venues, and our Access page for downloadable resources (sensory map, and social story) to help you prepare for your visit.

Parking
Please note that the museum’s car park can fill up quickly at busy times. If The MERL car park is full, you can use a special parking permit, valid throughout half term, to park in the University car parks on Acacia Road adjacent to the museum, or White Gates car park found at the second left off Crown Place, a short walk from the museum. (Please note the permit is not valid in the private car park on Crown Place)
View the car park locations, driving and walking routes.
You can collect a permit from reception at the museum or download the permit here and print at home (link coming soon).
If you do not display a permit, you may be issued with a penalty. We apologise for any inconvenience, but this solution means we can continue to offer free parking in the nearby University car parks. If you have any questions, please call 0118 378 8660 or email merlevents@reading.ac.uk
We would always encourage you to use alternative means of transport where possible. See our Getting Here page for details.

Museums, My Way is part of The MERL and Reading Museum’s Arts Council funded programme, Museums Partnership Reading.

Event Navigation

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Post Early: Relaxed Events @ Postal Museum, London
2025-04-07 10:00 - 17:00 | Postal Museum, London, WC1X 0DA
Post Early: Relaxed Events

07 April 2025 / 10:00 – 17:00
The Postal Museum
£3.50 per person

Book now

What is Post Early?
Post Early is a relaxed event that has been co-produced with Ambitious about Autism and a group of their autistic Youth Patrons.
Although the event is designed to support autistic and neurodiverse people, including families and adults, it is suitable for anyone who would benefit from visiting the museum when it is less crowded and noisy.

Admission

£3.50 per person.
Visitors are welcome to book a space for 1 accompanying companion or carer (included in the admission fee). Please contact the Bookings Support Team if you require additional essential companion or carer tickets at bookings@postalmuseum.org or + 44 (0)300 0300 700.
Admission includes entry to all exhibitions and an optional ride on Mail Rail.

Booking / Contact Information

Places are limited and must be pre-booked.
To make a booking use the link on this page, email the Bookings Support Team or call 0300 0300 700

About the event
At this event visitors can:

Ride Mail Rail.
Visit Sorted!, the Postal Play Space.
Explore the exhibitions with quieter sounds and adjustments.
Take part in a creative arts and crafts activity.
Relax in our breakout space.
Borrow sensory support items.
Enjoy food and drinks in the café, with a 20% discount on food and drink.

Mail Rail access
Mail Rail carriages have size and accessibility restrictions. Read our Mail Rail page to find out more about ride restrictions and what to expect, to help you decide if riding is suitable for you.

Travelling to the museum
The nearest step-free station is King’s Cross St Pancras Station which is a 20-minute walk to the museum. Farringdon Station is a 15-minute walk to the museum but does not provide level access.
See our Visit us page for more information about travelling to the museum.

Pre-visit information
To help you plan your trip, visit our Accessibility page for useful information, including a visual story and a pre-visit film.

Morning Stars: Beginners @ Royal Observatory Greenwich, London
2025-04-07 10:15 - 11:00 | Planetarium, Royal Observatory, London, SE10 8XJ
Ticketed
Essential Information

Type
Planetarium shows

Location

Royal Observatory

Date and Times
17 and 22 February, 7 and 11 April, 26 and 30 May, 2 and 16 August | 10.15-11.00am

Prices
£10 Adult | £5 Child | Free Companion tickets

10% off for members. Not a member? Join now

Book now Member Tickets

Our Morning Stars planetarium shows are designed for anyone who would benefit from a calmer and more relaxed environment, in particular those with autism.

These shows are presented live by a Royal Observatory astronomer with several adaptations from our normal planetarium sessions, including:

Room lighting is left at a higher level, bright enough that you can walk around safely, and leave and re-enter the show if you wish.
Narration is much slower and calmer.
The presenter will describe everything before it happens, giving plenty of time for you to prepare for any changes in light levels, imagery or sounds.
A small number of ear defenders will be available to borrow for the duration of the show. You will be able to take a pair after you enter the planetarium.
Fewer tickets are available so there is more space to spread out from other visitors.
The show runs at the beginning of the day, so fewer visitors will be around the site in general.

To help you prepare for your Morning Stars show, we have a visual guide to visiting the planetarium available to download.

Download Morning Stars Visual Story – Jun 2024.pdf
pdf, 2.58 MB

Free entry to the Royal Observatory Site is included with this show. Please note that this site will also be open to general entry, so may be overwhelming for some.

There are different variations of this show, to suit those with different levels of astronomy knowledge:

Variation
Upcoming Dates

Beginners
17 February, 7 April, 30 May, 2 August

Advanced
22 February, 11 April, 26 May, 16 August

Beginners show
10.15-11.00am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This version of the show is more suitable for younger children or anyone who has very little knowledge of astronomy.
It will feature:

The night sky in general
Constellations
The Moon
Mars
Saturn
Deep space images

Advanced show
10.15-11.00am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This version of the show is more suitable for older children, adults or anyone who would benefit from a more in-depth look into the subject.
It will feature:

The night sky in general
Constellations
Star formation
How stars end
The Moon
The planets with a close look at at least one
Galaxies (if time allows)

Under-5s will not be admitted – the beginners show is suitable for younger children.

How to book

Planetarium shows are available to book online and by phone. Our shows are very popular, so to prevent any disappointment, we recommend booking your tickets in advance.
To book your tickets, please click here or contact the Bookings team on 0208 312 6608. The office is open Monday-Sunday, 9am-5pm.
We have a very limited number of free tickets for each session available for Members of Royal Museums Greenwich. Please contact the Membership office to learn more.

Check out the full list of upcoming planetarium shows and events here.
Header image by ESA/Hubble & NASA

Relaxed Mondays @ The Cartoon Museum, London
2025-04-07 11:00 - 17:30 | Cartoon Museum, London, W1A 3AE
Relaxed Mondays: Events this year: February 17th. April 7th. May 26th. July 28th. August 4th. August 25th. October 27.

Overview
Our free Relaxed Monday events have been specifically designed for children and young people with autism spectrum conditions or sensory processing differences.
Events this year: February 17th. April 7th. May 26th. July 28th. August 4th. August 25th. October 27.Events are free, but advance booking is essential. One ticket per person, and one member of the group needs to be aged 5-25 with autism spectrum conditions or sensory processing differences. Drop-in workshops are most suitable for ages 8-14. Drinks and snacks will be available. Join us for a free morning or afternoon event specifically designed for children and young people with autism spectrum conditions or sensory processing differences. The event offers children and young people the opportunity to visit the museum without the distraction of other visitors, accompanied by their families, carers or friends. Throughout each session there will be drop-in cartoon workshops with our cartoonist Steve Marchant, as well as a self-led trail of the museum – or you can just use the time to explore the museum at your own pace. We cannot be responsible for any attendees. However, if there are any access requirements you would like us to know about or discuss, as well as any questions you may have, please email learning@cartoonmuseum.org and our Learning and Outreach Officer, Steve, will be happy to talk through everything. If you have booked tickets, we will email you our accessibility information ahead of the visit, including: Visual Story of the day, exhibition videos along with accessible descriptions, sensory descriptions of the museum, and the best accessible routes to get to the museum using public transport.

Location
