The Science and Industry Museum (SIM) recently shared with us some relaxed sessions at their Power Hall gallery and “Horrible Science” exhibition. These sensory-friendly sessions are specially designed for those who prefer an adjusted environment.

Please open the toggles (dropdown windows) below to learn more about each activity.

The sensory-based sessions at the Science and Industry Museum’s Power Hall 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.

For these sessions, 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.

Here are SIM’s sensory sessions scheduled for 2026:

The sessions are FREE to book; entry comes together with your free museum admission tickets.

At these times, Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos will have a smaller capacity, with adjusted sound levels throughout the exhibition. There will also be additional sensory activities to enjoy with the Science and Industry Museum’s Explainers.

A full video walkthrough is available to support you in preparing for your visit.

Visit SIM’s website for more info about the relaxed sessions at this exhibition.

Here are the relaxed sessions scheduled for 2026:

All sessions are drop-in. Arrival from 10am until 12pm.

Please note that there are costs* associated with booking for these sessions. Visit the links above for more information.

*Please contact us if there are financial barriers to your access/ enjoyment of the relaxed session and we will see what we can do.

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

The Science and Industry Museum also invites everyone to sign up to their Accessible Events mailing list to be the first to know more.

Photo Credits: Science and Industry Museum