Relaxed Family Workshop: The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland @ British Library, London
2025-12-13 10:30 - 12:45 (Europe/London) | British Library, London, NW1 2DB, United Kingdom
Relaxed Family Workshop: The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland
Start your festive adventures at the Library at this event designed for SEND families.
Saturday 13 December 10.30
Book now
Location
Knowledge Centre, British Library, London
Duration
10.30 – 12.45
Age
5+
Price
Free, booking essential
Additional Information
Step-free access
An illustration of characters from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland including Alice, the Queen of Hearts and the Cheshire Cat in a snowy Christmas scene. Text reads The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland, in partnership with Macmillan Children’s Books and Lupus Films. With Carys Bexington and Kate Hindley.
Credit: The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland (c) Carys Bexington and Kate Hindley 2019 and 2023
We’re welcoming author Carys Bexington and illustrator Kate Hindley for a fun-filled wonderland treat, designed for SEND families.
Discover their enchanting picture book The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland, which reimagines Lewis Carroll’s whimsical Wonderland world – but this time, it’s St. Nick’s turn for an adventure down the rabbit hole!
This relaxed event has been designed for families with special educational needs and disabilities and will have reduced numbers. If your family does not need to attend the relaxed event, please book onto the afternoon workshop instead.
Join Carys and Kate to discover their picture book through storytelling and fun draw-a-longs. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy a special screening of the animated film adaptation from Lupus Films. A dedicated sensory room will also be available for children needing a quieter and calmer space.
Please book one ticket for every member of your group.
Please note this screening is for family audiences only. This film has been BBFC classified a U – but assessing suitability of any film is the responsibility of parents/guardians. Please see www.bbfc.co.uk for more information on film ratings and content guidelines.
If you require any other access support, please contact us on outreach@bl.uk.
Learn more about your visit, accessibility, our facilities and cafés.

Early Birds @ Science Museum, London
2025-12-14 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.
Next Early Birds: Saturday 25 October 2025
Early Birds visitors will also have an opportunity to book tickets to lower capacity sessions in Wonderlab at a reduced rate.
Future dates
Saturday 25 October 2025 8.00–11.00
Sunday 14 December 2025 8.00–11.00
Saturday 24 January 2026 8.00–11.00
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.

Relaxed SENDay @ Eureka, Halifax
2025-12-14 10:00 - 16:00 | Eureka – The National Children’s Museum, Halifax, HX1 2NE, United Kingdom
A relaxed day for disabled visitors and their families.
Book your visit
We’re running ‘relaxed’ SENdays on various dates throughout 2025 for disabled visitors and their families!
Visit our online sensory guide to help you prepare for your visit!
Sign up for our Access All Areas email list to be the first to hear about accessible events and updates
What’s relaxed about it?
Low visitor numbers:
We’ve heavily restricted ticket availability on this day so our galleries will be much less busy than usual.
Flexible timings:
We want this day to work around you! Which is why – although we do ask you to select an arrival time – we are flexible if you happen to get here a little earlier or later than your slot.
Chill Out Room:
Need some time out away from the main museum? Just ask any of our Enablers (the people in light blue shirts with “Team Eureka!” written on the back) for access to our Chill Out Room.
Ear Defenders:
You can borrow a pair of ear defenders for free from our Information desk (by the admissions tills) – subject to availability, obvs.
Trained, supportive staff:
Our whole team is trained in disability awareness, and we really want you all to have a great day out. Just ask us if there’s anything we can do to support you 😊
Do I have to pre-book?
Yes please! All visitors must pre-book, even if you are an existing annual pass holder. There will be a very limited number of tickets available on this day and you won’t be able to pay on the day.
To join us on our upcoming Relaxed SENDay (listed below), just book as usual via our Online Bookings System:
– Sunday 20th July
Remember: Essential carers visit for free, and Max Card holders can bring 1 adult and 1 child free per card.
You receive 12 months of unlimited free visits with standard admission (excluding visits booked using Tesco Reward points), and our Relaxed SENDay event is free for existing annual pass holders.
We schedule our SENDays as regularly as possible, across our two venues.
They will usually take place at one or other of our sites every few months, and on different days of the week where possible to broaden opportunities to attend to more families.
Eureka! is committed to running these quieter sessions for a full day, rather than just quiet or “twilight” hours, and with reduced ticket numbers and additional activities, as often as programming, staffing and seasonal events allow.
What makes Eureka! an accessible venue
Info to help you prepare for your visit:
Read our Access Information
View our Sensory Guide
Check out our AccessAble Guide
Anything else we can do for you during your visit? Just ask any member of our team.
Relaxed SENDays Coming Up…
📅 Sunday 20th July
📅 Sunday 7th September
📅 Sunday 14th December
Book your visit
01422 330069
info@eureka.org.uk

Quiet Hour @ Brooklands Museum, Surrey
2025-12-29 09:00 - 10:00 | Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, KT13 0QN, United Kingdom
Quiet Hour, Christmas Holidays, Monday 29 December, 9-10am
Our Aircraft Factory the home of our Wellington Bomber, the Flight Shed where you have a go at deciphering Morse Code, step inside the Vickers Wellington walkthrough as well as being able to get up close and sit in the pilot’s seats of the Hawker Hunter and Harrier aircraft* and the London Bus Museum with a wide array of buses on display from vintage to modern. Visitors who are neurodivergent can enjoy these areas of the Museum, free from the hustle and bustle of our normal opening hours.
Our Sunbeam Café will be open for our ‘Brooklands Breakfast offer’ and our Christmas holiday family activities will be running from 9am.
The Museum will then be open as normal from 10am – 4pm when all our exhibit areas will be open.
*Some activities have step access only

Noises Off Morning @ Army Flying Museum, Hampshire
2025-12-29 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.

Relaxed Exhibition Viewing : Wildlife Photographer of the Year @ Natural History Museum, London
2026-01-03 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-07 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-02-04 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-02-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Natural History Museum, London, SW7 5BD, United Kingdom
Wildlife Photographer of the Year Relaxed Exhibition Viewing
Our relaxed viewings allow our disabled and neurodiverse visitors to see the newest edition of our Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition away from the daytime crowds.
Book your tickets
Until 12 July 2026
From £15.50
Members: free
East Pavillion Gallery
Exhibitions
People and planet
Art and science
Relaxed visit
Audio-described
Experience the exhibition’s breathtaking photography in a quieter setting at one of our relaxed viewings, designed specifically for our neurodiverse and disabled visitors.
With a reduced capacity, careful lighting and low-noise levels, these viewings allow you to explore the natural world in all its beauty and fragility through the work of the world’s best wildlife photographers. From the peaks of the high mountains to the deep polar seas, meet the incredible creatures that call these places home in this year’s selection of stunning images.
Come face to face with species at risk of extinction as well as those we’ve brought back from the brink. Plus, see first-hand how our activities – good and bad – are shaping the natural world on which we all depend.
Step into a world of wonder, where every image tells a powerful story. Book your visit today and see our planet through a different lens.

Quieter Time @ Tower Bridge, London
2026-01-10 09:30 - 11:30 | Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP
We know that visiting a busy attraction can be challenging for people who experience the world differently. That’s why we offer Quieter Time: a specially-designated period, designed to create a more inclusive and comfortable environment for all.
What happens during Quieter Time?

Limited visitor numbers inside the attraction
Hand dryers switched off. Disposable hand towels provided
Reduced volume of soundscapes and video

We also:

Train our staff with regular access awareness training
Provide a visual story to help you plan ahead
Provide access tool kits that contain sensory items and can help assist visitors who may benefit from distraction, play and sensory management when feeling overwhelmed by the environment. All visitors are welcome to request items from the kits from our team.

Who is Quieter Time for

Quieter Time is for anyone seeking a more tranquil experience at Tower Bridge, along with their families, friends, and carers.
It may be of particular benefit to:

Neurodivergent individuals
Anyone with dementia
Blindness or visually impaired individuals
Deafness or hearing-impaired individuals

Whether you’re visiting with others or on your own, Quieter Time helps you explore inside Tower Bridge in a way that suits you best.

What to expect

The Ticket Office and entrance is located on the west side of the North Tower. We suggest arriving at the exact time of your timed entry.
Please know that our queue is outside on the Bridge which is a working Bridge and there are a lot of noise and external inputs from the road and pedestrians. Our team will do their best to ensure your entry to the attraction is as smooth as possible.

Getting here

Visual Story
This is a visual guide through Tower Bridge. It can be used by any visitor including those with additional needs, who may wish to plan their visit in more detail prior to arrival.

Visual story of Tower Bridge

Access and accessibility
We are committed to creating a welcoming experience for everyone. View our access support and facilities available.

Relaxed Opening: Wes Anderson: The Archives @ Design Museum, London
2026-01-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Design Museum, London, Greater London, W8 6AG, United Kingdom
Wes Anderson: The Archives Relaxed Opening

Wednesday, 21 January 2026, 10:00 – 12:00
This landmark retrospective exhibition will chart the evolution of Wes Anderson’s films from early experiments in the 1990s to recent productions as well as collaborations with key long-standing creative partners. Explore the design stories behind award-winning and iconic films such as ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’, ‘The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar’, ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’, ‘Isle of Dogs’, and more.
Open from November 2025.
Location: Ground Floor

Visit the exhibition webpage for further information about Wes Anderson: The Archives
Book your tickets here

The Relaxed Opening allows you to visit our exhibitions with fewer people in the gallery, a more relaxed attitude towards noise and movement, and additional support.
Special adjustments will include:

Fewer tickets are available per time slot, so the galleries will be less busy than usual
A small Chill Room will be available on Level -1, near the gallery entrance and exit
A selection of tactile materials from the exhibition will be available to touch during the relaxed opening
You can download a Sensory Map and a Large Print Guide for each exhibition space from our Access Information webpage, and also on this page (please scroll down to find out more)
A print copy of the Sensory Maps and Large Print Guides will be available onsite during the Relaxed opening. Please ask a member of staff for assistance

Please note:

You must purchase a ticket to each exhibition
The museum’s cafés, shops, and other displays are also open to the public from 10:00am
A video description of the entrance journey to the museum will be added to this page soon
You can use the museum’s free Wi-Fi during your visit by setting up a free account
The recommended time to see the exhibitions is approximately one hour for each gallery space, but this really varies from visitor to visitor

How to book your ticket:

Pre-booking online is required as spaces are limited
Ticket sales are limited to 50% capacity, so we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment
Tickets are non-refundable. If you cannot make it to the event, please contact the team via the email bookings@designmuseum.org as soon as possible, and we will get in touch to exchange your ticket for another time.
After your booking, you will receive an automated email to confirm your purchase. And, 4 days before the event date, you will receive an email with further information to help you prepare for your visit
Suitable Age: 12 +. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible, ticket-holding adult

Scroll down for more information and booking links.

Relaxed Session: Wayne McGregor: Infinite Bodies @ Somerset House, London
2026-01-23 09:30 - 11:00 | Somerset House, London, WC2R 1LA
Wayne McGregor: Infinite Bodies Relaxed-Sessions
We are hosting a Relaxed Sessions for anyone who would like to explore Wayne McGregor: Infinite Bodies in a calm and comfortable environment, including people with autism and other neurodiverse needs, as well as their siblings, families and carers.
These will be held on Friday 28 November 2025 and Friday 23 January 2026 at 9.30–11am
What’s On
Exhibition
+4
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To ensure that Wayne McGregor: Infinite Bodies is as welcoming and calm as possible, we:
Limit the number of visitors in the session
Lower elements of AV in the space
Provide Access Packs – available at the entrance to the exhibition. These contain: Noise cancelling headphones, magnifying glass sheets for reading any printed text, a large print guide and a stress ball
Run regular disability awareness sessions with our staff
Provide a safe/calm space to help assist visitors who may be overwhelmed due to the new environment
This autumn, Somerset House proudly presents Infinite Bodies, a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to the polymath practice of internationally renowned choreographer and director Sir Wayne McGregor CBE. Marking the culmination of Somerset House’s 25th birthday celebrations, it will offer a bold exploration of McGregor’s three-decade career.
This landmark exhibition explores how McGregor’s investigations into the body, movement and cutting-edge digital technologies have radically redefined our perception of physical intelligence. A series of multi-sensory choreographic installations, performances and experiments will take over Somerset House’s Embankment Galleries, including spectacular new commissions. Extending the experience beyond Somerset House, a major off-site installation will also be presented at Stone Nest in London’s West End — forming part of a city-wide celebration of Infinite Bodies.
Reflecting the collaborative nature that defines Studio Wayne McGregor’s creative home in East London, the exhibition features collaborations with world-leading artists, designers, musicians, and technologists, such as Industrial Light & Magic, artist group Random International, Oscar-winning sound designer Nicolas Becker, renowned music producer LEXX, and artists Ben Cullen Williams and Jeffrey Shaw. McGregor also continues his creative exchanges with visionary collaborators such as fashion designer Gareth Pugh, visual artist Theresa Baumgartner, photographer Indigo Lewin, and filmmaker Ruth Hogben.
On selected dates, you will be able to witness Company Wayne McGregor, McGregor’s world-class company of dancers in residence as they activate the artworks and reveal their creative process.
Image: Wayne McGregor: ON THE OTHER EARTH, Company Wayne McGregor (Jasiah Marshall) 2025, Photo credit Ravi Deepres and Luke Unsworth

Relaxed Workshop for Neurodivergence with Studio Wayne McGregor @ Somerset House, London
2026-01-23 11:00 - 12:00 | Somerset House, London, WC2R 1LA
Relaxed Workshop for Neurodivergence with Studio Wayne McGregor
Open to all movers, the workshop invites participants to experience Wayne McGregor’s choreographic language in a supportive and inclusive setting. With the freedom to create their own movement, participants will explore physical thinking, with and through the body. No prior experience or training is required to participate in this workshop.
We have set aside a limited number of subsidised tickets for those who cannot afford our ticket prices. If there’s also anything you require to help, make this workshop more accessible for you and your family (e.g. BSL interpreter, visual step by step guide etc.) please let us know by emailing visitor@somersethouse.org.uk or calling +44 (0)333 320 2836.

Relaxed Opening @ The National Museum of Computing, Milton Keynes
2026-01-24 10:30 - 16:30 | The National Museum of Computing, MK3 6EB
Join us for a Relaxed Opening of The National Museum of Computing for families and individuals who require a quieter and calmer environment to experience our Museum.
This sensory-friendly event provides a way to explore and enjoy TNMOC outside of general opening hours. The event is suitable for individuals or families with members who have sensory processing differences, autistic spectrum conditions or other sensory needs.
The recommended time to see the exhibitions is approximately two hours, but this varies from visitor to visitor.
Special adjustments will include:

Fewer tickets are available, so the galleries will be less busy than usual
A small Quiet Room will be available in our Library, near the Museum exit
You can download a Sensory Map from our Accesibility webpage
A print copy of the Sensory Map will be available onsite during the Relaxed Opening. Please ask a member of staff at the ticketing desk for a copy

What visitors say about our Relaxed Openings:
“A huge thank you for organising the relaxed session. It makes a huge difference to families like mine to be able to get out.”
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.”
Activities on the day:
Self-Guided Museum Explorations:
Our ticketing desk give you all the important information about the self-guided explorations available at TNMOC. Some trails are digital (please bring your own device), and some are paper-based. Trails offered at the Museum are:

Robot Rescue! (6-10 years) – Explore the Museum and find all our mini-bots before their batteries run out and they’re lost forever! Grab a worksheet to record all of the mini-bot locations and fill in the missing words to identify a secret message which can only be deciphered using our 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 and win a small prize in our shop.
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.
Internet Explorers – Are you ready to become an Internet explorer? Delve into the evolution of networked communication and connect with the history of how the Internet revolutionised communication and interaction.
Women in Computing – Discover the inspirational achievements of past and present women in computing and explore their impact on the industry.

Relaxed Opening @ History of Science Museum, Oxford
2026-01-24 10:45 - 11:45 | History of Science Museum – University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3AZ, United Kingdom
Relaxed Opening
Saturday 24 January | 10.45-11.45am
Autism Friendly Openings Backpack in use
Email Helen to book for your family: learning@hsm.ox.ac.uk
A relaxed morning for exploring the Museum in a quieter setting. Created for neurodivergent and SEND visitors, those with sensory processing differences, and anyone who would enjoy a calmer environment for their visit.
SEND RAL Autism Friendly backpack
At the Welcome Desk you can pick up a backpack* with activities to help the whole family explore the museum together.
Although this is a relaxed opening, there may still be some noises around the Museum, so please do bring along ear protectors if you need them.
All ages welcome.
Book a space by emailing Helen: learning@hsm.ox.ac.uk
*The Museum’s SEND-friendly backpacks for families were developed in collaboration with RAL Space and Iffley Academy specialist school.
You can join our mailing list to hear about future events.
And don’t miss Autism-Friendly openings at the Museum of Natural History.
Want to see more events?

Relaxed mornings for adults (autism and learning disability friendly) @ Portrait, Scotland
2026-01-27 10:30 - 11:30 | Portrait Scotland, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD, United Kingdom
Course or workshop Communities & access
Relaxed mornings for adults (autism and learning disability friendly)

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Portrait
Tuesday 25 November 2025, 10.30–11.30am
Free
Booking essential
Book tickets

Join us at the Portrait for regular, relaxed, sensory-friendly mornings 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

Event accessibility

Wheelchair access
Hearing loop

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Portrait Gallery
Watch this short welcome video / social story to prepare you for your visit to the Portrait Gallery. It introduces the people, the spaces and how to get around.
Information on accessibility at our galleries

Sensory-friendly

Learn more about sensory-friendly events and resources created for and with autistic visitors, visitors with learning disabilities and those with additional sensory needs in mind.

Find out more

HMS Pinafore ENO Relaxed Performance @ London Coliseum
2026-01-29 14:00 - 17:00 | The English National Opera – London Coliseum, London, WC2N 4ES
HMS Pinafore ENO Relaxed Performance
Thursday 29 January at 2pm at the London Coliseum, WC2N 4ES

Running time: 2 hours 15 minutes with one interval
Sung in English, with surtitles projected above the stage.
Age guidance: 5yrs + (the age guidance for relaxed remains in line with all ENO production and any children under 5 will not be admitted).

Under 21s go free. Adult/Teacher tickets are £29
Find out more about the production or watch the show trailer

What are Relaxed Performances?
At ENO Relaxed Performances, we welcome audiences to come as they are, to relax and respond to the show in their own ways, which often includes making noise and moving freely.

Light and sound elements are altered and the house lights are on (but low) throughout the performance. Chill out spaces are provided and the show is available to watch live outside of the auditorium. There is an open-door policy, meaning if you need a break, you can go in and out of the auditorium as much as you like.
Relaxed performances provide an inclusive environment. You may choose to attend because of an access requirement, which might include people with dementia, learning disabilities, an autistic spectrum condition, Tourette’s syndrome, sensory disorders, anxiety, bladder and bowel conditions.
For more information take a look at our guide to ENO relaxed performances or watch our ‘What to expect at Relaxed Performances’ video.

Additional sensory activities
Our ENO Engage team will provide sensory and learning pre-show activities, such as seeing and touching props and trying on costumes from past opera productions. There will also be photo opportunities – you may even see some special appearances from performers in the show.

Support Resources
Before your visit you’ll receive a visual story and sensory guide of the production, along with a building visual guide to assist with your visit.
Example visual programme
Example sensory guide

Get Involved
Book by phone or email with our Box Office 020 7845 9300 or relaxed@eno.org
Or for more information email engage@eno.org and we’d be happy to chat further and answer any questions!

Relaxed Day @ Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh
2026-01-30 10:00 - 15:00 | Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS, United Kingdom
Dynamic Earth’s 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.
We are looking forward to our next Relaxed Opening Hours Day on Friday 30th January 2026.  We want everyone to have the entire day to fully experience all that Dynamic Earth has to offer. That’s why our Relaxed Hours run throughout the whole day from 10am-3pm.
During our Relaxed Opening Hours day, the following adjustments are 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 selected Planetarium shows.
A wide range of sensory aids
Flexible admission to our tour and Planetarium.
Designated quiet space for visitors to use.

Further information on visitor accessibility can be found here. If there are any other adjustments we can make to facilitate your visit please get in touch with us at enquiries@dynamicearth.org.uk
We look forward to welcoming your to our next Relaxed Opening Hours Day.

Relaxed Morning Opening @ Oxford University Museum of Natural History and Pitt Rivers Museum
2026-01-31 09:00 - 10:00 | Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Oxford, OX1 3PW
Relaxed Morning Opening
Saturday, 31 January 2026
09.00 – 10.00

About the event
Relaxed morning openings allow visitors to experience the Museum of Natural History and Pitt Rivers Museum early in the day, when the buildings are quiet. We open an hour early to welcome visitors who may struggle in the museums at peak times. The number of visitors is capped, which reduces ambient noise levels and how full the space is.
The relaxed morning openings are designed for visitors who may benefit from a calmer environment, including those on the autism spectrum, have additional learning needs or sensory and communication difficulties, and anyone who feels they would benefit from this session.
Family members are welcome to support the visit.
Quiet spaces are available during the opening.
You will be able to visit both the Museum of Natural History and the Pitt Rivers Museum during this session.

Accessibility information

Wheelchair accessible?
Yes

Hearing loops?
No

Seating?
Some seating is available in the Museum

Refreshments?
No

Flashing lights?
No

Loud noises?
No

For more information, please visit our accessibility webpage.

SENDsational Mornings @ NHM Tring, Hertfordshire
2026-02-01 10:00 - 12:00 | NHM Tring, Tring, HP23 6AP, United Kingdom
SENDsational Mornings at Tring

An opportunity for children with neurodiverse conditions to enjoy the Museum at a quieter time.

Book your tickets

Sunday 1 February and Sunday 24 May, 10:00–12:00

Free, booking required

The Natural History Museum at Tring

Relaxed visit

Pre-visit information (PDF 185KB)Pre-visit visual guide (PDF 3.5MB)

We are excited to present SENDsational Mornings at Tring, Hertfordshire.
Our SENDsational mornings offer children with neurodiverse conditions, including autism and other sensory processing difficulties, the chance to take part in activities and enjoy our galleries with their families and siblings away from the hustle and bustle of the general public.
This event is best for children aged five to 15 and siblings are welcome.
What can you expect from the experience?

Visitors have access to a few activities including specimen handling, crafting and a gallery trail.
All activities are supported by experienced, autism-aware facilitators.
A sensory space will be available for those children needing a quieter and calmer space.
All of the galleries, outdoor spaces and the shop will be accessible throughout the event.
Each event has a different theme. In February it’s Deserts, in May it’s rainforests, in August it’s Oceans and in November it’s Autumn.

Walk-ups are not possible – you must have a ticket. Adult tickets are limited to three per group.
We will email more information about your visit a week in advance, to help you prepare for your visit. On the day you will be given a programme and map to let you know what you can do.
The Museum in South Kensington has been successfully running a similar event called Dawnosaurs for the past four years.
Before your visit take a look at our pre-visit information including a visual guide and logistics and facilities information.

See event dates and times

Sunday 1 February

Available time slots

10:00

Relaxed Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery @ National Railway Museum, York
2026-02-01 10:00 - 12:30 | National Railway Museum, York, YO26 4XJ, United Kingdom
Relaxed Wonderlab
Relaxed Wonderlab is a sensory friendly event for families with members who would like a quieter environment to enjoy the gallery.
This event is suitable for anyone that would 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).
Sessions will have adjusted lighting and sound, a flexible learning offer and designated quiet areas for visitors.
Selected dates:
Book here for 13 August 2025
Book here for 8 November 2025
Book here for 1 February 2026

SEND Play @ Young V&A, London
2026-02-07 10:30 - 12:00, 2026-02-14 10:30 - 12:00 | Young V&A, London, E2 9PA
SEND Play (Feb-Jun 2026)
A session just for children with sensory differences or SEND and their families

Drop-in

Occurs on the first Saturday of the Month from February – June. Additional date – Saturday 14 February.

Young V&A

Free

+44 (0)20 7942 2000

Occurs on the first Saturday of the Month from February – June. Additional date – Saturday 14 February.

10.30 – 12.00

Young V&A
Cambridge Heath Road
Bethnal Green, London, E2 9PA

Across the musem

Families
Children with sensory differences or SEND and their families

Free event

Every first Saturday of the month join Young V&A’s Play Champions for a SEND Play session.
Saturday 7th February, 10.30am-12pm
Join us for a whole-family Sensory Design workshop for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities and their families. Explore textiles and textile processes and join us an open-ended exploration where there are no wrong answers. This session has been designed for children and young people who enjoy exploring the world through touch.
Alongside the workshop, our Designer in the Shed, Amanda Vesthardt will open her sensory installation for families to explore.
Saturday 14th February, 10.30am-12pm (half term session)
Explore the Mini Museum in Young V&A’s Play Gallery, a space that celebrates the texture, colour and sound of objects. This session is relaxed and designed with you and your child in mind. Children and their carers will be invited to enjoy the space and to play together with tactile and sensory materials. The Mini Museum will be open to children of any age with additional sensory needs for this inclusive play session.
Saturday 7th March, 10.30am-12pm
Explore the Mini Museum in Young V&A’s Play Gallery, a space that celebrates the texture, colour and sound of objects. This session is relaxed and designed with you and your child in mind. Children and their carers will be invited to enjoy the space and to play together with tactile and sensory materials. The Mini Museum will be open to children of any age with additional sensory needs for this inclusive play session.
Saturday 4th April, 10.30am-12pm
Explore a sensory story inspired by an object from the museum’s Adventure gallery with our Play Champions. This session was developed with sensory artist Natalya Martin and is relaxed and designed with you and your child in mind. You will be invited to play with tactile and sensory materials, helping to bring the story to life together.
Saturday 2nd May, 10.30am-12pm
Join us for a whole-family Sensory Design workshop for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities and their families. Explore our tactile library of objects and join us an open-ended exploration where there are no wrong answers.
In this workshop, we invite you to have fun exploring a wide range of design materials and techniques. Supported by a visual step-by-step explanation, you’ll assemble objects with a focus on the senses. This session has been designed for children and young people who enjoy exploring the world through touch.
Saturday 6th June, 10.30am-12pm
Explore the Mini Museum in Young V&A’s Play Gallery, a space that celebrates the texture, colour and sound of objects. This session is relaxed and designed with you and your child in mind. Children and their carers will be invited to enjoy the space and to play together with tactile and sensory materials. The Mini Museum will be open to children of any age with additional sensory needs for this inclusive play session.
Further information:
For Saturday 7th February and Saturday 2nd May:

The session will be held in Open studio on the first floor in the Design Gallery at Young V&A. Our building has step-free access to all public areas.
Lifts are on the right as you enter the Town Square and at the back of the Imagine Gallery. In line with the museum’s approach to fire safety, a maximum of six mobility impaired persons may occupy the first floor at any one time.
On the same floor is The Factory, a quieter, dimmed space with a process video playing.

For Saturday 14th February, 7th March and Saturday 6th June:

The session will be held in the Mini Museum in the Play Gallery at Young V&A, which can be accessed via the ramp. Our building has step-free access to all public areas.
The Mini Museum is usually reserved for children aged 2 and under. For this inclusive play session, it will be open to children of any age with additional sensory needs. Our Play Champions will support visitors to safely share the space together. The Mini Museum will return to being exclusively for children aged 2 and under from 12 noon.

For Saturday 4th April:

This session will be held in The Stage on the ground floor in the Imagine Gallery at Young V&A. Our building has step-free access to all public areas.

Our visual story shows you pictures of the museum and how to access our spaces. Please check our Access page for further information.
This is a family event. Children must be accompanied by an adult during the workshop.
Visitors will be welcome to move around, make noise and leave or re-enter the session throughout.
Ear defenders are always available on request at our reception.
The activities will be mainly floor based, and we have a range of seating available.
We know that visiting a museum as a family requires lots of planning. If you would like further information or would like to tell us about your child’s needs in advance of the session, please contact us by email: yvalearningevent@vam.ac.uk
On the day, our friendly team will be available to help with your access needs. Please feel free to approach us to make your visit more comfortable.

This activity is part of Young V&A’s Power of Play programme. The Power of Play is a collective impact consortium which brings quality learning through play to children in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. The programme is funded by LEGO Foundation and co-ordinated by the LEGO Group in London. Young V&A is participating in the programme alongside the Institute of Imagination, Save the Children, EasyPeasy and Ambition Aspire Achieve.

Relaxed Opening: '1880 THAT' @ Wellcome Collection, London
2026-02-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Wellcome Collection, London, NW1 2BE
What you’ll do
Join us for a relaxed opening of the exhibition ‘1880 THAT’. Relaxed openings provide a calm, friendly atmosphere with additional support and facilities.
You will find:

extra staff available to help you
fewer people in the exhibition
sensory-support equipment (including ear defenders, tinted glasses and visors, stim toys and weighted lap pads)
comfortable cushions and mats if you need to sit or lie down in the exhibition
a chill-out space.

For a break from the exhibition and gallery spaces, take advantage of our chill-out space. The chill-out room has low lighting, comfortable seating, cushions, mats and space to move around and be yourself.

Dates

15 June 2025 – 26 October 2025

Events
Sunday 15 June 2025

10:00 – 12:00

Relaxed opening

Relaxed Opening of 1880 THAT
Gallery 2
Join us for a calm and friendly opening of the ‘1880 THAT’ exhibition, with additional support and facilities.

Check for tickets
Tickets via Eventbrite

Sunday 7 September 2025

10:00 – 12:00

Relaxed opening

Relaxed Opening of 1880 THAT
Gallery 2
Join us for a calm and friendly opening of the ‘1880 THAT’ exhibition, with additional support and facilities.
Booking opens Thursday 7 August 2025 14:00

Sunday 26 October 2025

10:00 – 12:00

Relaxed opening

Relaxed Opening of 1880 THAT
Gallery 2
Join us for a calm and friendly opening of the ‘1880 THAT’ exhibition, with additional support and facilities.
Booking opens Thursday 25 September 2025 14:00

Relaxed Day @ Postal Museum, London
2026-02-08 10:00 - 17:00 | Postal Museum, London, WC1X 0DA
Relaxed Events

8 February / 10.00 – 17.00
The Postal Museum
£3.50 per person

What to expect
This relaxed event 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 neurodivergent people, including families and adults, it is suitable for anyone who would like to visit the museum when it is less crowded.

Admission

£3.50 per person.
Visitors are welcome to book a space for one 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.
Admission includes entry to all exhibitions and an optional ride on Mail Rail.

About the event
At this event visitors can:

Ride Mail Rail.
Visit Sorted!, the Postal Play Space.
Explore the exhibitions with adjusted sounds and lighting.
Take part in a creative arts and crafts activity.
Relax in our breakout space.
Borrow sensory support items.
Enjoy 20% off food and drink in the cafe.

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 stations are Farringdon (15 minute walk) and King’s Cross which is a 20-minute walk to the museum.
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.

Relaxed Performance Ballet Shoes @ National Theatre, London
2026-02-12 19:00 - 21:35 | National Theatre, London, SE1 9PX
Thursday 12 February 2026 7:00pm
Location
Olivier Theatre
Notes
This is a Relaxed performance. Find out what a Relaxed performance is – this opens in a new tab.
Disabled people with specific seating requirements can book on our Access phone line 020 7452 3961 or email boxoffice@nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Please note: £20/£25/£30 tickets are limited to 2 per customer, with an additional 2 available if you are buying them for children Under 18.
Relaxed performances
Technical changes (such as adjustments to light and sound effects) are made for those with sensory sensitivities. These performances also allow for noise and movement in the auditorium, a chill-out space for anyone who may need time away from the performance, and re-entry when needed.
View all Relaxed performances

Relaxed Performance - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra @ The Drum, Brent Civic Centre, London
2026-02-13 14:00 - 15:45 | The Drum, Wembley, HA9 0FJ, United Kingdom
Relaxed Performance

Friday 13 February 2026, 2.00pm
The Drum, Brent Civic Centre
Venue Information

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Imagine an orchestra concert that welcomes everyone – where fidgeting is fine, chill-out spaces are ready, and the musical joy knows no boundaries.
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to a musical afternoon designed to delight all families and friends. Whether you have a wiggly toddler, a child with additional needs, a loved one with dementia, or simply want a wonderfully inclusive concert experience – this is your musical celebration. Our brilliant presenter and incredible musicians are coming together to create a concert where you can move, dance, or sit quietly as you wish. No shushing. No stress. Just music that welcomes every single person exactly as they are.
‘Chill out’ spaces will be available for anyone needing some quiet time before re-entering the auditorium. At the end of the concert, you will be invited to take part in optional activities offering a range of musical interactive experiences led by the RPO musicians.
This performance is kindly supported by The Austin and Hope Pilkington Trust, The Marchus Trust, and Arts Council England

Timeline for the day:
Pre-concert Sensory Tour – 1.15pm – 1.45pm
Performance start time – 2pm
Audience breakout activities – c.2.45 – 3.30pm
Event end time – c.3.45pm
Latecomers allowed at any point.

Wheelchair space:
Please select a ‘Wheelchair Space’ ticket for anyone in your group using a Wheelchair space and book the relevant ‘General admission’ tickets above for all other members. We will still sit your party together.
General admission – with or without a chair:
Audiences are invited to choose the most comfortable seating option for their group. Mats will be provided for those wishing to spread out on the floor during the performance. Here is an image which shows you what the floor mats will look like.

Image by Hannah Graham Story Teller

Ticket information
Adults: £10
Wheelchair Adult: £10
Child: £5
Wheelchair Child: £5
SEND Schools: Please contact Groups@rpo.co.uk for £5 tickets for all students and staff.

Audience members are invited to join members of the Orchestra for a short (c30min) pre-concert sensory introduction from 1.15pm. Please book this as an ‘add on’ after you have put your tickets in the basket.
Seating will be spaced out between groups to allow for easy movement within your group, with your choice of floor seats (mats will be provided) or chairs.
Social stories introducing the venue and the show will be shared in advance of performances to bookers via email.
Specific seats or spaces will be allocated on arrival, but the seating type you select when booking will be available.

Relaxed Opening @ Tower Bridge, London
2026-02-14 09:30 - 11:30 | Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP
Relaxed Opening

A designated period for neurodivergent individuals to explore Tower Bridge in the way that best suits them.

Book now

Jump to section:

Key information
About
What to expect
Booking information

Key information

Date
Saturday 14 February 2026

Time
09:30 to 11:30

Price

Included in your entry ticket

Location
Throughout the attraction

About

Expand

Relaxed Opening is a dedicated, low-capacity session created specifically with neurodivergent visitors in mind. Held on the second Saturday of each month, Relaxed Opening offers visitors a calm, stress-reduced environment to explore Tower Bridge at their own pace – aiming to create a more comfortable environment to make everyone feel at ease.
Who is Relaxed Opening for?
Relaxed Opening is a designated time for neurodivergent individuals, along with their families, friends and carers. Visitors are welcome to move, express themselves, and engage with the space in the way that suits them best.
What happens during Relaxed Opening?

Further reduced visitor numbers inside the attraction with no guided tours or group bookings
Hand dryers switched off. Disposable hand towels provided
Reduced volume of soundscapes and video
Visitors are encouraged to explore Tower Bridge in the way that they feel most comfortable.

We also:

Train our team regularly with access awareness training
Provide a visual story to help you plan ahead
Provide access tool kits that contain sensory items and can help assist visitors who may benefit from distraction, play and sensory management when feeling overwhelmed by the environment. All visitors are welcome to request items from the kits from our team.

What is the difference between Relaxed Opening and Quieter Time?
Quieter Time is for anyone seeking a more tranquil experience at Tower Bridge, while Relaxed Opening is specifically designed for neurodivergent individuals and invite them to be themselves to enjoy Tower Bridge in a way that suits them best.

Discover more about Quieter Time

What to expect

The Ticket Office and entrance is located on the west side of the North Tower. We suggest arriving at the exact time of your timed entry.
Please know that our queue is outside on the Bridge which is a working Bridge and there are a lot of noise and external inputs from the road and pedestrians. Our team will do their best to ensure your entry to the attraction is as smooth as possible.

Plan your visit

Visual Story
This is a visual guide through Tower Bridge. It can be used by any visitor including those with additional needs, who may wish to plan their visit in more detail prior to arrival.

Visual story of Tower Bridge

Access and accessibility
We are committed to creating a welcoming experience for everyone. Step-free access are available in the Towers, Walkways and to the Engine Rooms. We also have two quiet spaces for those in need. View our access support and facilities available.

Access & accessibility

A Sensory Friendly Drop In @ V&A, London
2026-02-14 11:00 - 16:00 | V&A South Kensington, Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London, London, SW7 2RL
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!

Come along to our Sensory Friendly, a new monthly workshop for neurodiverse visitors of all ages and their families. Join this friendly, relaxed session.
As a family you’ll get to design, create and experiment using a mixture of different art materials in the space. The session and activities are inspired by the museum’s collections.

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 via the website 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 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+.
You’ll also find a visual story to prepare for your visit by clicking here

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

Museums, My Way @ The Museum of English Rural Life, Reading
2026-02-16 10:00 - 14:00 | Museum of English Rural Life, Reading, RG1 5EX
About this event
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

Date & Time

Monday 16 February 2026

Cost

Booking required

Book your place

Audience

Public

The Museum of English Rural Life

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