Built in 2002, this modern building has been designed with access in mind. There are five levels in the Museum, all of which are usually accessible by lift or ramp. You should allow at least 1.5 – 3 hours for your visit.
Facilities at National Maritime Museum Cornwall
Toilets
Accessible toilets are located on the first and second floors and there are larger facilities available if required. An ADi Room Mate is installed in the accessible toilet near to the Waterside Cafe – ADi is an audio device for blind and visually impaired visitors.
Baby changing facilities
The baby changing facilities are found in the accessible toilets on the first and second floors.
Changing Places
Currently National Maritime Museum Cornwall does not have a Changing Places. We understand the importance of facilities such as these being available. Whilst we continue to seek the necessary funding to build a Changing Places please note that the nearest Changing Places is located 0.1 miles from the Museum at the Grove Place Public Toilets.
Wheelchairs
The Museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users. There is:
- Level access to the entrance.
- First & Second floor wheelchair accessible toilets.
- Lift and ramp access available to all floors.
Please note, due to an intermittent issue we recommend contacting us on the day of your visit to check lift access to our ‘Surfing Memories’ Exhibition in The Balcony Gallery & Cornwall and the Sea Gallery this summer.
We have a self-propelled (not motorised) wheelchair available for museum visitors to borrow.
Blind and visually impaired visitors
Assistance dogs
We welcome trained assistance dogs.
Large print and braille guides
Large print and braille guides are available free of charge from the admission desk.
Deaf and hearing impaired visitors
British Sign Language Tablet Tour
The British Sign Language (BSL) tablet tour is designed to help deaf BSL users gain a better understanding of the unique story of the museum and get more from their visit. The tablet is available from the admissions desk.
Subtitles
Subtitles are provided on all audio visual exhibits and films with speech in them.
Hearing loops
There are various hearing loops throughout the building. These can be identified by the hearing loop symbol.
Sensory needs
Sensory bags
The sensory bags and ear defenders are available to anyone who may need them throughout the year and can be found at the Admissions Desk.
Relaxed Sessions
On certain days throughout the year the Museum offers Relaxed Sessions where noise is reduced, quiet spaces are allocated and sensory bags and ear defenders are available.
Find out more about National Maritime Museum Cornwall’s Relaxed Sessions.
If we have loud performances programmed during our holiday activities we schedule some quieter performances where noise is reduced. Visit our What’s On page to see the events we have coming up, our quieter sessions will be highlighted on the event pages.
Parking
The nearest public car park is 100 metres away, across the square (a level, but cobbled surface). The car park has a number of designated accessible parking spaces.
Carer’s concession
Carers who are required to assist disabled visitors are admitted free of charge with the person they are assisting. Proof may be asked for.
Safe Places National Network
The Museum is part of the Safe Places National Network, offering help to people who feel worried, anxious or who are at risk when out and about in Falmouth.
Contact us
For access information contact
Tel: 01326 313388
Email: enquiries@nmmc.co.uk
