Quiet Opening

Quiet Opening is part of the programme at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery in Dorchester: a calmer, lower-sensory morning in the galleries before the museum returns to normal operation at noon.

What to expect:

• First Saturday of the month, 10:00am – 12:00pm; the dates still to come in 2026 are 7 November and 5 December
• “the large screens in the galleries will be turned off, and lights will be low where possible”
• “there will also be sensory activities in the Learning Centre for visitors to dip into should they wish to”
• “Staff and volunteers will be on hand to help with any questions”
• Displays that normally have sound “will still be accessible with captions”
• “Whilst these openings are especially suitable for visitors with autism and other sensory conditions, all visitors who would like to visit the Museum in a calmer and more relaxed atmosphere are welcome.”
• “Usual admission charges apply. No need to book.”