Inclusive features
Access in the museum
There is a ramped entrance from the pavement outside the museum to the front door. There are lifts to all floors and level access to all public spaces, including galleries, the shop, café, toilets and other facilities. You can find a map of the museum here.
Places to sit
We have lots of seating across the whole museum including in our Main Hall next to the coffee bar. There are seats and benches in most of the galleries. Portable folding stools are available to use too – just ask a member of our team if you need one.
Quieter times
The museum offers inclusive support for visitors of all ages who prefer not to be in a noisy and busy environment. You can take the opportunity to explore the museum before it opens. Visit between 8am – 10am on Saturday mornings. Entry is free but please call 0161 275 2648 to arrange your visit. We are monitoring visitor flow and will promote the quietest hours on our website and social media once we have a better understanding of the most and least popular visiting hours.
Quiet room
The quiet room is on floor 1 next to the Egypt and Sudan Gallery. It is a quieter space for anyone who needs time away from the galleries for rest, reflection or other reasons. It includes seating and mindful activities such as puzzles and books. Ear defenders are available in the room and at our welcome desk.
Prayer room
The prayer room is on floor 1 next to Living Worlds. It is a calm space that is available to anyone who wants to use it for prayer, contemplation or meditation. It includes room dividers, a private ablution area, a shoe rack, and chairs. Please speak to our team if you have any other requirements or need assistance. There are also a number of Prayer Halls around the University Campus.
- St Peter’s House Chaplaincy ‘One Love’ Quiet Room. Number 32 on the Campus Map (this is a multi-faith space).
- Student’ Union Safe Space Room. Room 5, 2nd floor. Number 68 on the Campus Map (this is a multi-faith space).
- Holy Name Church is open each day from 9-5 for quiet prayer.
Lockers and buggies
Personal belongings can be left securely in lockers, which are next to the Main Hall, and there is plenty of space to leave your buggy.
D/deaf and hard of hearing
BSL interpretation and captioning are offered where possible.
Blind and visual impairments
Public interpretation, signage and digital content complies with RNIB standard. Guide, assistance and companion animals – including assistance dogs in training – are welcome at the museum. We ask that they are identified by wearing a jacket, a harness, or a brightly coloured collar and lead during your visit. Water bowls for dogs are available in the café – just ask and our staff will be happy to help.
Therapy dog
You might see our therapy dog, Murray, in the museum. Murray is trained to give emotional support to those who need it. We also have a therapy room on our Top Floor.