Committed to improving accessibility for all, the REME Museum in Lyneham, Chippenham is delighted to announce the introduction of ‘Lights Up, Sounds Down’ days during selected half terms and school holidays for 2025.
The military museum, based just outside the wire at MOD Lyneham (formerly RAF Lyneham), explores the history of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and displays a number of large recovery vehicles, an extensive weapons collection, uniforms, medals and more. Digital and physical interactives throughout the eight galleries help to offer visitors hands-on engagement with the stories of soldiers.
The museum strives to be fully accessible to all visitors, including children, young people and adults with sensory processing difficulties. The museum recognises that, while interactives, soundscapes and lighting effects help to add to the full experience for some, these sensory elements can create a barrier for others.
Now the REME Museum invites visitors to join them for a more relaxed visit during special openings outside of their regular hours. These ‘Lights Up, Sounds Down’ days are designed to reduce sensory input for individuals who would prefer a quieter experience. The sessions are primarily for, though not limited to, anyone who has sensory processing disorder; autism; social, emotional or mental health needs; dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); or any other sensory needs.
During these days the museum will have:
- Lights On – overhead gallery lighting turned on, without spotlights, to create a brighter environment in which to explore.
- Sounds Down – reduced sound effects throughout the museum as much as possible by turning off most ‘surround sound’ interactives and reducing volumes.
- Sensory maps – marked out areas around the museum where you may find louder interactives or visual effects that cannot be turned off. This means you can choose your own route and avoid any areas as you wish.
The museum welcomes you to bring any sensory items (including but not limited to ear defenders, magnifying glass, book, squeezy toy) that will help you or your loved one to enjoy their experience better.
Booking Information
The first of these ‘Lights Up, Sounds Down’ days is on Monday 17 February during the February Half Term. Future dates include Monday 7 April, Monday 4 August and Monday 27 October.
Regular opening times apply, 10am – 16:30pm. Regular admission fees apply – Adults £10, children £6, under 5s free, family ticket £28, concessions £7.50.
Pre-booking online is essential for these visits, on the museum’s online booking system.
Please note Crown’s Café will be closed and the gift shop will remain open to ticket holders only.
Find full details, including where to book, how to get to the museum and full accessibility information on the museum’s website at www.rememuseum.org.uk/Events/lights-up-sounds-down-feb
The museum reminds visitors who want to enjoy the full museum experience, including normal sound effects and visuals, should avoid visiting during these special openings. General admission and half term workshops are available on other dates, see their website for full details.
