Overview

This old building has great access for a former submarine base and it has a fantastic, dramatic atmosphere; even if you don't go to the exhibitions inside, it's worth visiting to experience the dark, cellar-like submarine pens which still have German writing on the walls left over from the war. They are doing it up just now though and I'm hope that people can still do this after the refurbishment. This is my second visit to this centre; the last time was to an incredible street art exhibition which featured Banksy amongst others and this time I saw a former Magnum photographer's exhibition of his seafront photos (Harry Gruyaert) paired with British film-maker John Akomfrah's immersive film on three simultaneous screens about our relationship with the sea over time with a post-colonial slant. Both were really good but the film was absolutely outstanding; it said so much about our relationship with the planet and each other and covered lots of issues such as whaling and slavery both past and present. The setting was entirely appropriate.

Transport & Parking

There is free on-site parking available, however, the ground in the surrounding streets is quite old , cobbly, and full of potholes as they are doing up the whole area (Bacalan) which used to be docks. It's a bit of a wheel from the tram stop B over this ground and it takes quite a while to negotiate as you have to go slowly over the cobbles to avoid bone-shaking. There is another tram stop which might be nearer and a bus too. It's not too well signposted until you're very close, we encountered a few wandering tourists on the way!

Access

They have made a lot of effort to ensure that the exhibitions are accessible; sometimes you are diverted up ramps with fairly tight turns to make sure you have the same experience as everyone else and again, for an old building, they have done really well. Some areas were pretty dark and you might need help there to see what's in front of you, but on the whole it was great. The entrance ramp was also a little steep but manageable.

Toilets

Although there is no sign for a disabled toilet at reception, there is one with the other toilets just off reception. The toilets were cleaner than they appear in the photo; there was room to manoeuvre, a grab rail but no red cord.

Staff

Staff were really helpful and approachable and offered assistance at tight corners etc; they were also very informative.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

I would recommend this; definitely go if you get the chance!

Photos