Sensory guide
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. We are also working on a pre-visit guide to provide as much information as possible on what to expect at our venue with visuals. This will be available on the website soon.

Sensory packs
Sensory packs will be available to use during your visit to Showtown. These will include items such as ear defenders and dark glasses.

Quiet times
Would you prefer to visit Showtown when it’s a little bit quieter? We will have regular access events with softer lighting and less noise for a more relaxed experience.

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.

Buddy-up (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 next year. This means you can book a member of our team in advance to help you navigate the museum to make it as enjoyable as possible for yourself and/or your group.

Wheelchair friendly
Unfortunately the Showtown building cannot accommodate mobility scooters, however the building is completely wheelchair friendly. Our museum interactives have been designed to accommodate wheelchairs and all but one 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 hire. 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.

All assistance dogs will be welcome throughout Showtown.

Tactile maps
There will be tactile maps throughout the museum.

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.

Events
A number of Showtown’s events will have British Sign Language interpretation. Want to find out more? Visit What’s on.

Subtitles
There are a number of videos as part of the displays in Showtown. All videos will be subtitled or have transcripts available.

Dementia friends
All Showtown staff and volunteers will be trained as Dementia Friends.

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.