Museum of East Dorset

Yes - the Museum of East Dorset is sensory‑friendly and highly inclusive.

• The museum provides a Sensory Map, visual story and accessibility guides to help visitors prepare before arriving. 
• A dedicated Sensory Shed offers a calming space with soft lighting, gentle sounds, tactile items, and fidget toys for anyone needing a sensory break.
• Visitors can borrow free sensory backpacks, including ear defenders, fidget toys and craft items to support sensory needs during their visit.
• The museum highlights quieter visiting times for those who prefer low‑sensory environments (e.g., Thursday afternoons in term time, Mondays & Fridays in school holidays).
• The venue participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, welcoming visitors who use Sunflower items.
• Facilities throughout the site are designed to support neurodiverse visitors, including accessible navigation, clear signage, and supportive staff.

Yes - the Museum of East Dorset is wheelchair accessible and designed to welcome visitors of all abilities.

• The museum provides a Wheelchair User Guide with details on level access points, door widths and accessibility routes throughout the site.
• There is ramped access throughout the museum and garden, supporting wheelchair users, mobility aid users and visitors with pushchairs.
• A lift is available, giving access to upper galleries and exhibitions.
• Accessibility features include Braille books, interactive displays, dementia‑friendly adaptations, and an accessible toilet with supportive facilities. 
• The museum supports the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, creating a supportive environment for visitors with additional needs.
• The gardens and tea room offer clear signage and inclusive features such as accessible crockery and easy‑grip utensils.

Yes - the Museum of East Dorset is very child‑friendly and designed to welcome families with children of all ages.

• The museum has signed up to the Kids in Museums manifesto, showing its commitment to being welcoming, accessible and enjoyable for children, young people and families.
• Children can enjoy interactive, hands‑on activities, including dressing up as a Victorian schoolchild, exploring activity boxes, using magnifying glasses and torches, and completing Eye Spy games.
• There are free family craft activities during school holidays, plus seasonal trails and fun quizzes to keep children engaged.
• Outdoor fun includes traditional garden games and searching the garden for Pixie Doors (small charge applies). 
• The museum provides family‑friendly facilities such as baby changing, breastfeeding‑friendly spaces, highchairs, booster steps, ear defenders, accessible toilets, and pushchair parking.
• Children can take part in Little Explorer craft mornings, workshops, and themed events (e.g., summer HAF workshops, Living History days, and festive activities).
• Kids can also enjoy free trails, dressing‑up corners, interactive exhibits, and chances to learn through play in historically themed spaces. 

The museum has an on‑site Tea Room, described as a “true gem” set in the museum’s idyllic garden. It serves tea, coffee, light refreshments, cakes, and seasonal treats, all in a peaceful setting overlooking the heritage‑planted walled garden.

• The Tea Room is run by friendly volunteers and offers a relaxing spot for all visitors, including families and those needing an accessibility‑friendly space. 
• The garden surrounding the Tea Room provides additional space to sit, unwind, and enjoy food and drink during your visit.