The sensory-based sessions at the Science and Industry Museum’s Power Hall (The Andrew Law Gallery) were specially designed in partnership with families from Manchester Parent Carer Forum and Sense UK.

There will be additional sensory activities and resources to help you explore the sights, smells, sounds and textures of the Power Hall and its stories. There will also be informal engine demonstrations and a smaller number of visitors in the space. A regulation area will be available in the gallery for visitors that want to take a break from the activities.

What makes it SEND-Friendly?

These sensory sessions are specially designed for those who prefer an adjusted environment.

You are welcome to arrive anytime between 14:00 and 16:00.

You can stay for as long as you like until the session ends at 16:30.

Accessibility at the Science and Industry Museum (SIM)

For this session, an audio described tour, large print book, Braille guide and sensory map are available to borrow from the Access Hub in the gallery. Visit SIM’s website for more info about the sensory sessions at the Power Hall.

You can also find out more about accessible facilities and resources on their Accessibility page, to help you plan your visit to the museum.

About the Power Hall

Rediscover your favourite engines and dive into newly revealed stories as Power Hall: The Andrew Law Gallery re-opens, following a major repair and conservation programme.

Journey through a century of innovation and experience the industrial beauty of a Grade II listed building, once a hub for shipping global products, now home to one of the UK’s largest collections of historic engines that tell the story of how industry in Manchester shaped the world as we know it today.

Visit SIM’s website or watch the video below for more info about their Power Hall: The Andrew Law Gallery.

Can’t join this session?

Here are SIM’s other sensory sessions scheduled for 2026:

• Sunday, 26 April, 10:00–12:30
• Saturday, 17 October, 14:00–16:30
• Sunday, 18 October, 10:00–12:30