Family activity: SEND morning at M Shed
Families of children with a disability or neurodiversity, such as autism, can enjoy a calmer visit to M Shed during October half-term.
This morning is designed for children and their accompanying adults who would prefer reduced background sensory stimulus. Once you have pre-booked a free ticket, arrive and leave anytime between 10am and 1pm and explore M Shed at your own pace.
What changes have we made for this event?
M Shed will be open for you on Monday when we are usually closed to visitors. We’ve limited tickets available for this event to reduce the number of people attending.
The museum Ground and First Floor galleries will be open to visit at your own pace, however our café and shop will be closed. Trails will be available for families to explore the museum.
A quiet space will be available and you are welcome to borrow a ‘Little Bag of Calm’. Our gallery lighting will be adjusted and audio soundtracks will be turned down or off, where possible. Sensory maps will be available digitally prior to your visit and will be available in paper form on the day.
You are welcome to picnic at the ground floor tables by the café.
Hands-on sensory activities on the theme of ‘travel and transport’ will be available to supplement your normal museum visit. These activities are optional— children can dip in and out as they please, and explore at their own pace.
Book tickets
Free, donations welcome.
Family ticket admits one adult and up to two children or two adults and one child.
Booking in advance is essential.
Additional information
You can download a visual guide to M shed here Autism_awareness_brochure_m_shed.pdf
You can download a digital sensory map of the museum here BD17404 – Mshed Sensory Map – Update 2025
Little Bags of Calm are available to borrow from the museum welcome desk.
You can check accessibility information here Access | Bristol Museums
Please let us know if you would like to borrow a wheelchair or would like to bring one of your own.
M Shed is closed to general visitors on Mondays. You will need to wait by the glass entrance doors to the left of the museum where staff will great you and let you into the building. Please show your digital or printed ticket on arrival.
If you’d like to share any information to help us support your child, please email before your visit: [email protected]