Manchester Art Gallery (Days Out and Activities for Disabled Children and their Families)

MANCHESTER ART GALLERY

This information has been put together by two parents of disabled children with the intention of giving other parent carers some ideas for trips out around the Greater Manchester area.

No need to worry about being tutted at or shushed in this art gallery – families of all shapes and sizes are very much welcome! A top favourite with many people visiting with children is the Clore Interactive Gallery, where there are hands-on activities to help you explore real works of art. Dressing up, stories, masks, where there are hands-on activities to help you explore real works of art. Dressing up, stories, masks, computer interactives and a chance to play in a giant kaleidoscope all add to the fun.

You can borrow a special tool belt complete with binoculars, magnifying glasses and spot cards before setting off to explore the gallery. Older children might enjoy the resources included in a free family backpack. Or borrow a story bag containing a blanket to sit on and activities to play with while you listen to a story book. Look out for family weekends when you can play games, doodle and make things from materials like string, paper and tin at the special workshops. See website for details.

FACILITIES
Parking Nearest car parking at the NCP car parks on Chepstow Street, Faulkner Street and Sackville Street, all a five minute walk from the gallery
 Disabled parking There are three disabled spaces on Nicholas Street, 10m from the main entrance. Three spaces on Princess Street, 50m from the main entrance
Access Wheelchair lift at the groups entrance on Princess Street. The gallery is fully wheelchair accessible.
Lifts to all floors

Public transport Buses: Nearest bus stops are at St Peter’s Square 
Tram: Nearest Metrolink stops are Mosley Street and St Peter’s Square
Disabled toilets Yes, on the ground and first floors. Baby changing facilities on the ground floor
Café Yes

Opening times
10am-5pm – Tuesday to Sunday
Closed on Mondays (except some Bank Holidays), January 1, Good Friday, December 24-26, December 31
Admission Free
Guide and hearing dogs welcome

Wow!
A handling trail in the Gallery of Craft and Design has ceramics, glass, metal and wood objects  made specially for touching.
A free audio guide for visually impaired visitors is available from the information desk in the atrium. The museum offers a programme of BSL interpreted and sign supported English events as well as activities for visually impaired visitors. See website for more details