A glorious garden
Soak up the mellow joys of Autumn in this garden with an award-winning plant collection. Hear from the Head Gardener at special listening posts or simply enjoy a dedicated 'Quiet Space' on the Terrace. A mobility 'Tramper' and all-terrain manual wheelchair are also available to help you navigate the garden’s pathways – though do need to be booked in advance.
A sensory church
Join this special sensory tour developed with My Sight York for one of the city’s beautiful churches. Smell the incense, hear full descriptions of the stained glass, and hold real artefacts from the past discovered on site.
A scientific collection
Enter the ‘World of Wasps’ as you explore this world-famous collection after hours. Friendly guides will be on hand to answer your questions about the 100,000 specimens, from dodo bones to Victorian glass models and a new VR experience. The museum is wheelchair accessible and has a bespoke audio description tour developed by VocalEyes.
An art gallery
Discover more about this grand art gallery’s history on a special tour highlighting its original architectural features. All three tours offer BSL interpretation, and creative packs for families. The gallery also has ear defenders, magnifying glasses, large print interpretation and guided walking for its visitors.
A painted church
Enter a world of ancient colour – this church has an internationally important collection of medieval wall paintings. Alongside a short video there are written guides with more information, a Touch Tour guide with tactile images and PenFriend commentaries.
A 17th century cottage
Visit the smallest and most immersive museum in the North West. Go back in time as you enter this 17th century cottage, sit awhile by the fire, discover what a drop spindle is and have a go with one, or release the scent of spices as you grate them in the kitchen. Alongside these sensory activities an audio description of the cottage and its history is available via QR code.
Two modern sculptures
Experience contemporary sculpture in a new way. Everyone welcome (including blind, partially sighted and sighted people) to this interactive session. Working together with others in the group you will explore how words, sound and touch can add to our appreciation and understanding of modern art.
A local cinema
Recent renovations to this beloved local picture house have increased its accessibility. Settle in this September for special screenings of Martin Scorsese’s critically acclaimed, ‘U’ certificate film – ‘Hugo’. Family friendly activities are available on two days and on Sunday 14th there will be an Autism friendly screening.
An 18th century town house
A rare opportunity to visit this beautifully restored house in the heart of Spitalfields. A BSL interpreter will be on hand on Saturday 13th September to share more of the site’s history.
A community exhibition
An exciting new project exploring the history of the local community and their relationship with The US Army Air Forces during WWII. The exhibition is open throughout the festival with pop up events including music and creative activities. Dedicated quiet hours are available on the mornings of Sunday 14th and Friday 19th September.
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