Overview
Museums are more than just places to explore history, art, science, and culture. They are vibrant, inclusive environments where curiosity is encouraged and learning comes to life. For children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), museums can offer unique opportunities for sensory engagement, creative expression, and social interaction in a safe and supportive setting.
Many museums are working hard to become more accessible and welcoming to all visitors. From quiet hours to sensory-friendly exhibits these spaces are evolving to meet diverse needs. Visiting a museum can help build confidence, spark imagination, and provide meaningful experiences that support personal development and lifelong learning.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, a school trip, or looking for community resources, museums can be powerful tools for inclusion and enrichment.
South West Heritage Trust
The South West Heritage Trust celebrate and protect our rich heritage, helping everyone to enjoy it now and in the future. They deliver a wide range of heritage experiences for people of all ages on behalf of Somerset Council.
The Museum of Somerset is based in Taunton Castle. It tells the county’s story from prehistoric times to the present day. Find out more about accessibility on Museum of Somerset’s plan your visit page.
The Somerset Brick and Tile Museum in Bridgwater is dedicated to the local industry of brick and tile making. This was one of the many labour-intensive coal-based industries from Somerset’s past. Find out more about accessibility on the Brick and Tile Museum’s access page.
The Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury explores working rural life from the 1800s onwards. Find out more about accessibility on Rural Life Museum’s plan your visit page.
All three museums have Facebook pages you can follow to find out about events and activities.
Other museums
Haynes Motor Museum is based in Wincanton. Learn about the history of the automobile as a platform for engineering and science. Find out more about accessibility at Haynes, including a map explaining the different sensory experiences through the museum.
NMRN Fleet Air Arm Museum in Yeovilton is Europe’s largest naval aviation museum. Find out more about accessibility on their Fleet Air Arm’s plan a visit page.
Chard Museum shares the story of the town and local area. Including notable local people such as James Gillingham who pioneered the development of articulated artificial limbs. Find out about physical accessibility on their Chard Museum visit information page. You can also explore digital versions of some exhibits.
The Museum of Prehistory is part of Cheddar Gorge and Caves, sharing how we used to live during the last ice age. Sensory bags are available, find out more on their safety and accessibility page.
Wells and Mendip Museum shares the heritage of the Mendip area. Find out about physical accessibility on their Wells & Mendip Museum your visit page.
The Shoemakers Museum in Street shares the history of the Quaker shoemakers, and stories behind Clarks shoes. Find out more about accessibility on their Museum accessibility page as well as accommodations available within the wider Clarks Village.