Venue Description

Are you ready for an action-packed family adventure? Set off on an exciting journey through the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) at Winchester Science Centre. You can climb into a massive guitar and feel it vibrate when people pluck the strings. Blast off on an out-of-this-world journey through Explorer:Space. See science come to life with big explosions and huge wow moments. Get up close to the weird and wonderful nature of the South Downs National Park. And fly through the Solar System in an experience you’ll never forget in the Planetarium.

Accessibility

Winchester Science Centre believes everyone should have access to a great day out! If you wish to discuss your specific requirements please get in touch by calling 01962 863 791 or emailing access@winchestersciencecentre.org Arrival: The Centre has nine blue badge bays, large enough for minibuses, located near the main visitor entrance. Access to the entrance is via a short flight of steps or ramped tarmac. Additional blue badge bays are located at the top of the main car park, offering a level-access route to the main entrance. If you require any assistance to reach the Centre please call the reception desk on 01962 863 791. Getting around the Centre: There are two wheelchairs available for visitors to use. Please email access@winchestersciencecentre.org to reserve one for your visit. The venue is open-plan, with level flooring and a roll-on roll-off lift between the two floors. The Planetarium: The Planetarium has spaces for wheelchairs. Wheelchair users have the choice of sitting at the back, with access via the main entrance, or at the front, with access via the stage door from the path outside. There is space at the back of The Planetarium to store wheelchairs if you prefer to transfer to a seat. The Planetarium's full dome shows are available with subtitles projected on the dome. There is generally at least one subtitled show a day and the time will vary throughout the week. Look out for the ‘S’ in the show schedule. The Planetarium has a hearing loop, requiring the T setting. Please arrive for your booked screening ten minutes before the advertised time and a member of staff will be able to test the microphone and find the best seat for you. Steps inside the Planetarium are lit but if you require any assistance finding your seat please ask a member of staff. Toilets: Accessible toilets can be found on each floor. These are wheelchair accessible. There is also a Changing Places facility on the lower floor, which is open 24 hours a day. When the Centre is closed you can still access it through a door outside the building using a radar key. Sensory backpacks: The Centre has sensory backpacks available for children with sensory sensitivities. Assistance dogs: Assistance dogs are welcome. Rates: Visitors with disabilities pay standard rates but may bring a carer/companion with them free of charge where this is required to enable access. This also includes Gateway Card holders. Carers must present one of the below forms of carer identification: - Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance award letter (dated within the last 12 months) - Personal Independence Payment letter (dated within the last 12 months) - A current and valid Blue Badge - A letter from GP or consultant confirming the need for a full-time care (dated within the last 12 months) For visitors who require more than one carer, all accompanying carers must bring documentation to support this.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://www.winchestersciencecentre.org/visiting/accessibility

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: https://www.winchestersciencecentre.org/accessibility-statement

Accessible Performances

The venue offers relaxed and subtitled Planetarium shows. Details can be found on the website, with additional information on the accessibility page.

Toilets

Accessible toilets on upper and lower floor. Changing Places toilet on lower floor. The Changing Places is available 24/7 with a radar key and code from the Changing Places website.

Staff

Staff are well trained in welcoming all visitors.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

The fantastic surrounding countryside.