ACCESS

We are committed to providing full and equal access to Ashmolean spaces, collections and experiences for everyone.

We understand that access needs are broad and diverse and can include physical, sensory, emotional, intellectual and financial needs.

You can read responses to our full list of Frequently Asked Questions at the following link: ashmolean.org/faqs

Our Frequently Asked Questions page includes information about wearing face coverings, lifts, toilets and facilities.

OPENING TIMES & QUIETER TIMES

We are open every day 10am–5pm.

We are often quieter from 10–11am and 4–5pm if you like to visit when fewer people are around.

FLOOR PLAN

A museum floor plan detailing accessible routes and facilities, can be downloaded from our full Access Guide.

CHARGES

To help keep everyone safe, a timed entry system is in place.

Admission to the Ashmolean is free. Advance booking is recommended to guarantee entry, particularly for the Tokyo exhibition which usually sells out, but tickets for general museum admission are available on the door – you may just need to wait when the museum is busy.

We charge for special exhibitions. We offer free tickets for companions and carers of people with additional needs visiting the special exhibitions.
 

You can find out more, and book tickets, on our Plan Your Visit Page: ashmolean.org/plan-your-visit

You can read our full visitor Frequently Asked Questions at the following link: ashmolean.org/faqs

BLUE BADGE PARKING

There are nine designated Blue Badge parking spaces within easy reach of the museum: three spaces directly outside the museum, three more opposite the museum close to the Randolph Hotel, two spaces on St Giles' and one space on St John's Street. These are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

LEVEL ACCESS & LIFTS

There is a level access route from the pavement outside the museum to the front door.

There are lifts to all floors and level access to all public spaces, including galleries, shop, café, restaurant and to most of the study rooms.

ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

Accessible toilets are on the lower ground floor and Floor 4.

Download our floor plan with accessible toilets marked.

INDUCTION LOOPS

There are induction loops in the Lecture Theatre and at the Information Desk.

BORROW A WHEELCHAIR

Free wheelchairs are available to borrow at the front door. Just ask when you arrive.

ASSISTANCE DOGS

Assistance dogs, and assistance dogs in training, are welcome. Water bowls for dogs are available in the café on the Lower Ground Floor – just ask and our staff will be happy to help.

PLACES TO SIT

Portable folding stools are available around the museum for people to pick up and use. There are benches and armchairs in some galleries. We are gradually introducing more seating into the galleries - a mixture of seats to support a variety of needs.

SOCIAL GUIDES 

Download our guides created for families with children who may benefit from this additional information.

Social Guide for Schools – Beaumont Street Entrance

Social Guide for Schools – St Giles Street Entrance

Social Guide for Families – Beaumont Street Entrance

Social Guides for Primary Taught Gallery Sessions

Anglo Saxons

China

Egypt

Life in Ancient Greece and Olympic Games

Prehistoric Britain

Roman Britain

FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information, view our full Access Guide 

Download our Access Policy and Plan to find out more about our philosophy and approach.

If you have any questions or feedback, please contact the Visitor Experience Team. 

PROGRAMMES FOR PEOPLE WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS

Many of our regular public programmes are welcoming and accessible for people with a variety of needs, or can easily be adapted to meet different needs.

We also run a number of events specifically designed for visitors with additional needs. eg relaxed openings, free hands-on sessions for blind and partially sighted peope and free BSL signed tours for deaf and hearing impaired people. We organise bespoke visits for groups on request.

To find out more, please contact the Learning Department.