Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Here

Coaches can drop off close to the museum, but there is no designated drop-off point. You can stop on nearby Orchard Street (loading bay, may briefly hold up traffic) or Alfred Street, where it’s usually easier to pull over.

If using a designated coach drop-off, please allow time to walk. Options include seafront drop-off points or parking at Locking Road car park, both a short walk away.

The main train station is also within walking distance, so travelling by train is another option.

Staying safe

The safety and welfare of all of our visitors is very important to us. Feel free to use our Risk Assessment – Museum school visits and learning sessions 2026 to help plan your day; it includes consideration of Safeguarding issues, which you can also read about further in the Town Council’s Safeguarding Policy. The Learning Space is self-contained and doors can be shut to deter anybody wandering off; it is also right next to the visitor’s toilets, so supervising toilet visits is very straight-forward.

Adult/Child Ratios and Behaviour

We recommend a ratio of at least 1 adult to every 6 children for KS1 visits and 1 to every 8 for KS2. You’re welcome to explore the galleries around your learning session times. Adults must stay with children at all times for safety and behaviour, and be mindful of other visitors in the space.

We also ask accompanying adults to take an active role in learning sessions to support behaviour and improve engagement for the whole group.

Lunch

The Learning Space (where sessions are held) can be booked for lunch. There may be a small charge, or it may be free depending on your session. This must be requested when booking, as it needs to be built into your timings. Other areas, such as the Courtyard, cannot be used for school lunches as they are fire routes.

Coats and Bags

We have a designated cloakroom space for school groups, which does not need to be booked if you are taking part in a learning session but does need to be booked if you are conducting a self-guided visit.