Built in 2002, this modern building has been designed with access in mind. There are five levels in the Museum, all of which are accessible by lift or ramp. All staff have been provided with deaf and disability and autism awareness training. You should allow at least 1.5 – 3 hours for your visit.
Sensory needs
For films with sound we provide headphones for visitors to use, where possible. Noise and music will be played when selected on certain touch screens.
Please note that while we undertake work to our Main Hall, there will be noises from construction vehicles while they move the hanging boats. These include loud beeping noises. Find out more about our Main Hall re-rig here.
Face coverings
Wearing a facemask is a personal choice.
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 our 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, and whilst we seek the necessary funding to build a Changing Places, we instead hire the services of Mobiloo occasionally.
Find out more about Mobiloo at NMMC.
Wheelchairs
The Museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users. There is:
- Level access to the entrance
- Lift and ramp access available to all floors
- First floor wheelchair accessible toilets
A small number of self-propelled wheelchairs are available for loan free of charge.
Blind and visually impaired visitors
Assistance dogs
We welcome trained assistance dogs. A water bowl is available at the main entrance/exit for them.
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
Access guide Social Story Sensory Map
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.
Parking
The nearest public car park is one hundred 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.
If you require any further information or if, after your visit, you have suggestions of changes we might make, please let us know.
Contact us
For access information contact
Tel: 01326 313388
Email: enquiries@nmmc.co.uk