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 also have a pre-visit guide which provides visitors with 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 have monthly access events where we limit visitor numbers and turn sounds down for a more relaxed experience. For more information click here.

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 an extra pair of hands or a friendly face to enjoy the museum with can make all the difference. Our volunteer buddies can be booked in advance (minimum 3 weeks) of your visit to help you navigate the galleries. Booking for this service will begin very soon, watch this space!

Mobility Scooters
Due to space restrictions, architecture and as a matter of public safety in a busy environment, we can allow a certain type and amount of mobility scooters in at any one time in Showtown.

Your scooter must be a class 1 or 2 model with the capability of travelling at no more than 4mph. Class 3 are not permitted. It should also have anti-tip wheels at the back and have a turning circle of no more than 1.5m. Lastly, it must fit within the standard wheelchair footprint, which is 1.2m x .7m. If you would like to bring your mobility scooter to Showtown, please do let us know when booking.

If your scooter does not fit these criteria, 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 available

Events
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 cast and 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 an extra pair of hands or a friendly face to enjoy the museum with can make all the difference. Our volunteer buddies can be booked in advance (minimum 3 weeks) of your visit to help you navigate the galleries. Booking for this service will begin very soon, watch this space!

Need a break?
There are a number of places for you to sit throughout the museum. We also have 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.