Overview

I visited this venue along with other members of Euan's Guide to check out the new Planetarium and the 'Discover the Deep' gallery. I loved how immersive and accessible it all was; it was brilliant to be able to have such a great view of everything in my powerchair. Sometimes it's difficult for me to get close enough to the interactive parts of exhibitions so it was really good to be able to access these in my powerchair here. The flexible speakers at an accessible height which enable you to listen to the underwater sounds of the ocean, and how I could get within touching distance of the iceberg were particularly impressive for me. In the Rainforest Gallery you can experience a thunderstorm; I also learned how best to escape a crocodile if I ever encounter one! The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and helpful and helped to make the galleries what they are; amazing experiences which leave you considering our place in the universe, our impact upon it and our planet.

Transport & Parking

There are six Blue Badge spaces in the underground car park on-site situated next to the lift along with free electrical charging points. There are also accessible buses stopping a short distance away.

Access

This was probably one of the most accessible attractions I've ever visited; access was fantastic with wide corridors and curves, spacious lifts and I was able access all the galleries had to offer. Although I don't need them, I also really liked the use of of closed captioning on the films etc. where there were none available induction loops were provided if requested. They also provide Accessibility Toolkits and transcripts. I also felt that the astronomer's descriptions in his presentation embedded access and allowed people with visual impairment a good sense of what was happening visually. He did this creatively ensuring that it was central to the whole experience and informative; he was amazing!

Toilets

The disabled toilet I saw was clean, spacious, had grab-rails and a red cord; I would have given 5 stars if a Changing Places toilet with a hoist had been available, however, the staff member I spoke to told me that they are coming soon.

Staff

The staff were all fantastic; so helpful and welcoming, they couldn't have been nicer. Thanks to everyone for making it so special.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

I felt Covid safe as everyone wore masks and hand sanitisers were available and there was lots of space. This was a brilliant experience and there is so much more to see than I saw on this visit, I will definitely be back again.

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