A place for everyone
We want to make visiting Showtown as easy as possible and fun for all.
Here you will find lots of information to plan your visit.
Sensory and Pre-visit Guides
Knowing what to expect before you arrive is always good, right? We would like to make the museum as welcoming and comfortable for our autistic visitors and visitors with sensory needs. Our sensory map will highlight where you will find things like flashing lights, mirrors, mannequins etc and is available to view and download before your visit. Click here to view our sensory map. We are also working on a pre-visit guide to provide as much information as possible on what to expect at our venue. Click here to view our pre-visit guide.Sensory backpacks
Sensory backpacks will be available to use during your visit to Showtown. These will include items such as ear defenders and communication cards.Quiet times (coming soon)
Would you prefer to visit Showtown when it’s a little bit quieter? We will have monthly access events with softer lighting and less noise for a more relaxed experience. More information coming soon.Quieter Space
The museum does not have a dedicated quiet space, but please ask a member of staff if you require a quieter area during your visit and they will always do their best to accommodate. Our sensory packs include ear defenders and sensory items which may assist you with your visit.Showtown Support Act (coming soon)
Need a support act? Sometimes having an extra pair of hands can really help. Showtown will have trained staff and volunteers to help you during your visit, but we are also working on a buddy-up service which will be available later in the spring. This means you can book one of our access volunteers in advance to help you navigate the museum to make it as enjoyable as possible. Booking must be made at least three weeks in advance.Mobility Scooters
Unfortunately the Showtown building cannot accommodate mobility scooters. This is due to space restrictions, architecture and as a matter of public safety in a busy environment. We will have wheelchairs for visitors to borrow (see below) but please be aware that we do not have designated space to leave mobility scooters outside the building and any scooters left outside are at the visitor's own risk.Wheelchair friendly
Showtown is completely wheelchair friendly. Our museum interactives have been designed to accommodate wheelchairs and majority are accessible. There is also a Changing Places toilet, as well as accessible toilets and lifts.Borrow a wheelchair or walking aid
Showtown will have a small number of wheelchairs and walking frames available for visitors to borrow. Please let a member of staff know on arrival if you require a wheelchair/walking aid. There will also be a number of places to sit throughout the museum.Assistance and guide dogs will be welcome throughout Showtown.
Lifts
Showtown’s lifts will have audio announcements and braille labelling on the buttons.Visitor App
We are currently developing a visitor app for visitors to enjoy and listen to museum content.Induction loops
Induction loops are fitted throughout the museum.Subtitles and Transcripts
There are a number of videos as part of the displays in Showtown. All videos will be subtitled or have transcripts availableEvents
If you require a BSL interpreter for one of our events, please do not hesitate to contact us and we can arrange this. Please give us at least two weeks notice.Dementia Training
Our Showtown crew are trained in dementia awareness- please do not hesitate to speak to a crew member if you require any help.Showtown Support Act (coming soon)
Need a support act? Sometimes having an extra pair of hands can really help. Showtown will have trained staff and volunteers to help you during your visit, but we are also working on a buddy-up service which will be available later in the spring. This means you can book one of our access volunteers in advance to help you navigate the museum to make it as enjoyable as possible. Booking must be made at least three weeks in advance.Need a break?
There will be a number of places for you to sit throughout the museum. There will also be a small number of wheelchairs and walking frames available to hire.Sensory Map
Our sensory map highlight areas in the museum that include illusions or flashing lights that may be a trigger. You can download and view this before your visit. Click here to view our sensory map.