Assistance dogs
Registered assistance dogs and those in training are welcome throughout the museum. This includes Guide Dogs for the Blind, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Disability Support Dogs, Medical Assistance Dogs, Seizure Alert Dogs, and other recognised service animals.
Access for visitors with mobility needs
The museum building has been designed with physical access in mind. Ramped or level access is available throughout the main gallery, and the spacing between displays allows easy navigation for wheelchairs and walking aids.
- The main entrance features automatic doors.
- A lift provides access to all levels of the building.
- A manual wheelchair is available to borrow during your visit.
- Disabled parking bays are located in the adjacent Newfoundland Way car park.
Please note that the lift may not accommodate larger mobility scooters due to the constraints of our Grade II listed building. In these cases, a loan wheelchair is available. Our team and volunteers are always on hand if you need assistance.
Toilet facilities include a fully accessible ground floor toilet with adult changing table and hoist. Seating is available throughout the galleries, and additional chairs can be provided on request at the Welcome Desk.
Hearing support
A hearing loop is installed at the Welcome Desk. Visitors can also borrow a loop adapter to connect the museum’s audio tour directly to their hearing aid.
All video displays in the museum include subtitles.
Visual access
Audio guide handsets are available at the Welcome Desk, and can also be downloaded for use on your own device. A tactile map with raised images and braille, developed in partnership with the RNIB, is available to borrow. Large print versions are also offered – please ask at the desk when you arrive.
Planning your visit with a visual guide
To help visitors who benefit from visual preparation, we offer a Visual Story document. This guide has been created with neurodiverse visitors in mind, but it may also be helpful for those who prefer visual information or who find written English difficult to access.
Please be aware that we have working railway signals on display, which can make sudden, loud sounds. If you would prefer a quieter visit, please contact us in advance.
Accessible toilets
Ground floor
A large accessible toilet is located on the main floor and includes an adult changing table and hoist.
Key measurements:
- Sink to wall: 1460 mm
- Toilet to wall: 870 mm
- Toilet to wall-mounted grab handle: 520 mm
- Toilet to fold-down handle: 120 mm
First floor
The first floor has a standard accessible toilet.
Key measurements:
- Room size: 194 cm × 152 cm
- Door width: 88 cm
- Fold-down handle to side of toilet: 13 cm
- Fixed wall handle to toilet: 20 cm
- Front of toilet to wall: 177 cm
Relaxed visits
Relaxed visits offer a quieter experience of the museum. During these sessions, sound levels are reduced and a quiet space is provided away from the galleries. Sensory bags and ear defenders are available to borrow.
These sessions are open to anyone who would benefit from a calmer environment, including visitors with sensory conditions or communication differences.
View upcoming relaxed visit sessions
If you have any access requirements not mentioned here, please contact us in advance. We’re happy to help make your visit as enjoyable as possible.
Get in touch to discuss your visit
The museum complies with the Equality Act (2010) and takes all reasonable steps to ensure that our services and policies are accessible and inclusive.
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