Skip to main content
The new name for DisabledGo

MK Gallery

Milton Keynes Gallery, 900 Midsummer Blvd, Milton Keynes, MK9 3QA

View Accessibility Symbols

Accessibility Symbols

For more information about what these symbols mean, view our Accessibility Symbols Guide.

Close this popup window.

Access Guide

Show Easy Read

Overview

  • About View
    • MK Gallery brings world-class exhibitions and events together with pioneering learning and community programmes to Milton Keynes.
    • Facilities available in the venue include: toilets with adaptations, standard toilets, Changing Places facility, cinema, shop, cafe, Playscape, Event, Learning and Exhibition Spaces.
    • View information on opening times.
  • Parking and Public Transport View
  • Getting In and Around View
    • There is step-free level access at the most accessible entrance.
    • There is step-free level access throughout, this may include the use of a lift.
    • The following areas have stepped access: the male and female standard toilets in the Event Space, and the upper cinema seating rows.
    • Access throughout may include automatic doors.
    • The ground, first and second floors can be accessed via a standard lift and stairs.
  • Getting Help and Assistance View
    • There is seating available.
    • There is a fixed hearing assistance system.
    • You can borrow or hire the following equipment: a manual wheelchair and mobility scooter charging facilities.
    • Additional equipment which can be borrowed or hired includes:
    • Portable, foldable seating
    • Audio headsets(Cinema)
    • Sensory kits - these include ear defenders, fidget spinners, sensory toys, and a sensory map of the building
    • MK Gallery has a dedicated Inclusion team who can organise any specific access requests.
    • They can be contacted on [email protected] / 01908 676900.
    • There is a designated safe space which can be used by people with dementia, autism or learning disabilities.
    • The designated safe space is located according to the needs of the visitor/group by staff on the day, or can be arranged in advance of the visit.
    • British Sign Language interpreters can be provided on request.
    • Documents are available in the following formats: large print and audio.
    • There are Relaxed cinema screenings (Sunday mornings)
    • There are Silver cinema screenings (Tuesday and Wednesday mornings)
    • There are Milk and Baby cinema screenings (Friday mornings)
    • Headsets for cinema audio description are available for loan
    • Audio description facilities are film-dependent
    • British Sign Language interpreters can be booked on request for events
    • Audio guides are available via the MK Gallery profile on the Bloomberg Connects App (downloadable to a mobile device).
    • There is a water bowl available for assistance dogs.
    • There is not a designated assistance dog spending area.
    • Additional facilities/services include: Wi-Fi.
    • Staff receive the following training: First Aid Training, Inclusion, Equality and Diversity Training.

Toilet and Changing Facilities

  • Toilet Facilities View
    • There are 2 toilets with adaptations.
    • Toilets with adaptations are located on the first and second floors of the venue.
    • The transfer space varies between left and right in the toilets with adaptations.
    • Ambulant toilet facilities are located within the male and female standard toilets.
    • The male and female step-free standard toilet facilities are located on first and second floors of the venue.
    • The gender inclusive step-free standard toilet facilities are located on the first floor of the venue.
    • The male and female standard toilet facilities are located on the first floor of the Event Space (accessed via stairs only).
  • Changing Places and Changing Facilities View
    • The Changing Places toilet facilities are located on the ground floor of the venue.
    • Parent and baby changing facilities are located within the toilets with adaptations on the first floor and second floor, and within the male and female ambulant cubicles.

Parking

  • On-street Parking View
    • On-street designated Blue Badge parking is available.
    • The on-street designated Blue Badge parking bays are located on Midsummer Boulevard.
    • The Blue Badge bays are clearly marked and signposted.
    • There are 4 free, Blue Badge car parking spaces located outside, at the front of the gallery.
    • These spaces are shared with MK Theatre and operate on a first come first served basis.
  • Public Car Parks View
    • There is a public car park located across the road from the venue.
    • The name of the car park is Centre: MK (John Lewis).
    • Designated Blue Badge parking bays are available in the car park.

Entrance

  • This entrance is located on Midsummer Boulevard.
  • The entrance area is clearly signed.
  • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at the entrance.
  • There is step-free level access at the entrance.
  • There is a single automatic door at this entrance.
  • The door opens by sliding.
  • The width of the opening is 150cm.
  • There is a small lip on the threshold of the opening.
  • The door has a low visual contrast.

Ticketing (Welcome Desk)

  • Ticket Counter View
    • The ticket counter surveyed is located on the left, after entering.
    • There is step-free level access to the counter.
    • The height of the counter is 76cm.
    • The counter has a television and patterned/distracting backgrounds.
    • There is a clearly signed fixed hearing assistance system.
    • The hearing assistance system could not be tested at the time of the survey.

Getting Around

  • There is step-free level access throughout all areas, this may include the use of a lift.
  • The following areas have stepped access: the toilets in the Event Space.
  • Access throughout may include automatic doors.
  • Some flooring is shiny and patterned.
  • The visual contrast between the walls and floor varies between low and high.
  • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event.
  • Wayfinding signage is provided.
  • Signage is clearly visible with high contrasting colours.
  • The colour, design and typeface of signs is consistent throughout.
  • Seating available in the walkways includes: benches.
  • Lighting levels vary due to the size of the space.
  • Lighting levels are adjustable in some areas.
  • A temporary wall with double doors is in place, leading to the stairs and the lift on the ground floor of the venue.
  • The doors have an opening width 143cm.
  • Portable folding stools are available for visitors.

Shop

  • Getting Around View
    • There is step-free level access throughout all areas.
    • The majority of main aisle widths are between 120cm - 150cm.
    • Some flooring is patterned.
    • There is a high visual contrast between the shelving and floor throughout this area.
    • There may be background noise.
    • Signage is provided.
    • Signage is clearly visible with high contrasting colours.
    • The colour, design and typeface of signs is consistent throughout.
  • Payment Counter View
    • The counter surveyed was also the Welcome Desk.
    • The shop layout may change depending on the event or exhibition.

Eating and Drinking (Cafe)

  • Location and Access View
    • The most accessible route has step-free level access.
    • There is step-free level access into this area.
  • Service View
    • This area has a counter where food and drink can be ordered, colleagues who can provide assistance with ordering and numerous seating options.
    • Full table service is available on request only.
    • Menus are displayed on the counter.
    • The following dietary requirements can be catered for: gluten free, dairy free, lactose free, vegetarian and vegan.
    • The following are available: drinking straws and takeaway cups.
    • There is not a hearing assistance system.
  • Order and Payment View
    • The payment counter was surveyed.
    • The counter is located on the right as you enter.
    • There is step-free level access to the counter.
    • The height of the counter is 109cm.
    • There is a lowered section at the counter.
    • The height of the lowered section is 92cm.
  • Seating Area View
    • There is step-free level access throughout the seating area.
    • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
    • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
    • The flooring is shiny.
    • Seating available in this area includes: chairs without armrests.
    • Furniture available in this area includes: tables.
    • The surface height of the tables is suitable for wheelchair users.
    • The clear height under the tables is suitable for wheelchair users.
    • There may be background noise in this area.
    • There is a side door leading to the outside terrace. This a single, automatic door that opens outwards with an opening width of 126cm.

Outdoor Seating Area - Cafe Terrace

  • Location and Access View
    • This seating area is located outside the cafe.
    • The most accessible route has step-free level access and automatic doors.
    • There is step-free level access into this area.
    • There is a single automatic door with a medium visual contrast.
    • The door opens away from you.
    • The width of the opening is 125cm.
  • Seating Area View
    • The seating area is uncovered.
    • There is step-free level access throughout the seating area.
    • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
    • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
    • Seating available in this area includes: chairs without armrests.
    • Furniture available in this area includes: tables.
    • The surface height of the tables is suitable for wheelchair users.
    • The clear height under the tables is suitable for wheelchair users.
    • There may be background noise in this area.

Changing Places (Both Sides Transfer)

  • Location and Access View
    • The Changing Places facility surveyed is located through the galleries.
    • The Changing Places toilet is in addition to other toilet facilities.
    • The distance from the entrance is 60m.
    • The most accessible route to the Changing Places facility has step-free level access and automatic doors.
    • There is step-free level access into the facility.
    • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the door.
    • The door opens outwards and has a low visual contrast.
    • The width of the door opening is 100cm.
    • The door has a lever twist lock.
    • Internally the door has a low visual contrast.
    • There is a grab rail on the internal door with a high visual contrast.
    • The dimensions of the facility are 298cm (width) x 404cm (depth) and there is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (180cm x 180cm).
  • Toilet Details View
    • There is lateral transfer space on both sides of the toilet.
    • The transfer space on the right as you face the toilet is 160cm.
    • The transfer space on the left as you face the toilet is 80cm.
    • There is a push button flush on the wall above the cistern.
    • There is no horizontal grab rail for the toilet.
    • There is a vertical grab rail on the right as you face the toilet.
    • The vertical grab rail has a medium visual contrast.
    • There are dropdown rails on both sides of the toilet.
    • The dropdown rails have a medium visual contrast.
    • The toilet seat is 46cm from the floor.
    • The toilet seat has a low visual contrast.
    • The toilet has a padded backrest.
    • There is a wall mounted toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder has a low visual contrast.
    • The toilet roll holder is 84cm from the floor.
  • Changing Bench and Hoist Details View
    • The changing bench is wall mounted and height adjustable.
    • The length of the changing bench is 200cm.
    • The facility hoist is powered overhead and accesses all areas.
  • Shower Details View
    • There is an adjustable shower head which can also be detached.
    • The shower controls are twist turn mixer.
    • There is no shower seat.
    • There is a grab rail for the shower.
    • The shower grab rail has a medium visual contrast.
    • There is a pull cord emergency alarm for the shower within 10cm from the floor.
  • Other Facilities View
    • There is a fixed height wash basin.
    • The wash basin is 83cm from the floor.
    • The wash basin has a twist turn mixer tap.
    • The vertical grab rails are on both sides of the wash basin.
    • The wash basin grab rail has a medium visual contrast.
    • There is a wall mounted soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser has a medium visual contrast.
    • The soap dispenser is 80cm from the floor.
    • There is a wall mounted towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser has a medium visual contrast.
    • The towel dispenser is 80cm from the floor.
    • A wide paper roll dispenser is available.
    • The height of the wide paper roll dispenser is 92cm.
    • There is a wall mounted hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer has a medium visual contrast.
    • The hand dryer is 85cm from the floor.
    • There is a pull cord emergency alarm within 10cm from the floor.
    • There is a full length mirror.
    • The facility has a waste bin, a nappy/incontinence items bin and a sanitary bin.
    • There are multiple coat hooks.
    • The coat hooks are 140cm from the floor.
    • A privacy screen is available.
    • The walls and floor have a high visual contrast.
    • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.

Exhibition Spaces

  • All exhibits are indoors.
  • There is step-free level access throughout all areas.
  • Access throughout may include automatic doors.
  • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
  • The flooring is shiny.
  • The walls and floor visual contrast varies between low and high.
  • The following may be experienced here: interactive video effects.
  • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event.
  • Lighting levels vary due to the size of the space.
  • Lighting levels are adjustable.
  • Display information includes: tactile, pictorial, audio description, audio guides, information boards, televisions/screens, interactive exhibits at a suitable height for a wheelchair user and BSL.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system.
  • Seating available in this area includes: benches.
  • The seating is fixed.
  • Guided tours are available.
  • There is step-free level access throughout the tour, this may include the use of a lift.
  • The Exhibition is made up of 5 Gallery Spaces: Anson Gallery; Garfield Western Gallery; Wolfson Gallery; Margaret Powell Gallery and Derek Walker Gallery.
  • Access from the shop into the first gallery has a single, automatic door.
    The door has an opening width of 105cm and a door opening sensor at a height of 90cm.
  • The exit route back into the cafe has a single, automatic door.
    The door has an opening width of 90cm and a door opening sensor at a height of 90cm.
  • The layout may change depending on the event or exhibition.
  • Accessible exhibition tours include: Audio Described, BSL, plus Toddle and SEND Sensory Tours.

Learning Studio

  • The room is located within the main venue, on the ground floor.
  • The most accessible route to the room has step-free level access and manual doors.
  • There is written text signage on or near the door.
  • There is step-free level access into the room.
  • There is a single manual door with a low visual contrast.
  • The door opens away from you.
  • The width of the opening is 102cm.
  • There is step-free level access throughout the room.
  • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
  • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
  • The flooring is shiny.
  • The walls and floor visual contrast varies between low and high.
  • Seating available in the room includes: chairs without armrests.
  • Furniture available in the room includes: tables.
  • The surface heights are suitable for wheelchair users.
  • The clear underside space of the surfaces is suitable for wheelchair users.
  • There is a fixed hearing assistance system which is not clearly signed.
  • The hearing assistance system could not be tested at the time of the survey.
  • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
  • Lighting levels are adjustable.
  • The layout may change depending on the event or exhibition.
  • There is an external door leading to the Playscape area. This door has an opening width of 90cm.

Event Space

  • The room is located across from the main venue, in the Lozenge Building.
  • The distance from the main venue is 20m.
  • The most accessible route to the room has step-free level access and manual doors.
  • There is written text signage on or near the door.
  • There is step-free level access into the room.
  • There is a single manual door with a medium visual contrast.
  • The door has a locked extension leaf.
  • The locked extension leaf can be opened on request.
  • The door opens towards you.
  • The width of the opening is 91cm.
  • There is step-free level access throughout the majority of areas.
  • The following areas have stepped access: the toilets on the first floor.
  • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
  • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
  • The flooring is shiny.
  • The walls and floor have a medium visual contrast.
  • Seating available in the room includes: chairs without armrests.
  • Furniture available in the room includes: tables.
  • The surface heights are suitable for wheelchair users.
  • The clear underside space of the surfaces is suitable for wheelchair users.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system.
  • Additional facilities/services include: a wash basin.
  • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
  • Lighting levels are adjustable.
  • The layout may change depending on the event or exhibition.
  • Visitors with access needs can use the toilets with adaptations in the main venue.

Project Space

  • The room is located across from the main venue, in the Lozenge Building.
  • The distance from the main venue is 22m.
  • The most accessible route to the room has step-free level access and manual doors.
  • There is written text signage on or near the door.
  • There is step-free level access into the room.
  • There is a single manual door with a high visual contrast.
  • The door has a locked extension leaf.
  • The locked extension leaf can be opened on request.
  • The door opens towards you.
  • The width of the opening is 102cm.
  • There is step-free level access throughout the room.
  • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
  • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
  • The flooring is shiny.
  • Seating available in the room includes: chairs without armrests.
  • Furniture available in the room includes: tables.
  • The surface heights are suitable for wheelchair users.
  • The clear underside space of the surfaces is suitable for wheelchair users.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system.
  • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
  • Lighting levels are adjustable.
  • The layout may change depending on the event or exhibition.

Lift

  • The lift surveyed is located near the shop.
  • The distance from the shop is 5m.
  • The most accessible route to the lift has step-free level access.
  • The lockers on the first floor are accessed by this lift.
  • The lift door has a medium visual contrast.
  • The lift has a level manoeuvring space in front of it for a wheelchair user (150cm x 150cm).
  • The external lift control buttons have tactile markings, Braille markings and a high visual contrast.
  • None of the external lift controls are at a suitable height for a wheelchair user.
  • The lift door opening width is 90cm.
  • The internal dimensions of the lift are 108cm (width) x 138cm (depth).
  • The internal lift control buttons have tactile markings, Braille markings and a high visual contrast.
  • None of the internal lift controls are at a suitable height for a wheelchair user.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
  • There are other lifts available at this location which vary in size.

Stairs

  • The stairs surveyed are located between the shop and the cafe.
  • The lockers on the first floor can be accessed by these stairs.
  • The steps are clearly marked and have handrails on both sides.
  • The handrails are easy to grip.
  • The handrails cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
  • The handrails do not extend horizontally beyond the first and last step.
  • The height of the steps is between 15cm and 18cm.
  • The depth of the steps is not between 30cm and 45cm.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.

Area (Lockers - First Floor)

  • The lockers are located near the entrance to the toilets on the first floor.
  • There is step-free level access into this area.
  • There is step-free level access throughout the area.
  • There is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
  • There is background noise in this area which varies depending on the function/event.
  • Wayfinding signage is provided.
  • Signage is clearly visible with high contrasting colours.
  • The colour, design and typeface of signs is consistent throughout.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.

Toilet with Adaptations (First Floor - Right Hand Transfer)

  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet surveyed is located on the first floor.
    • The distance from the lift is 6m.
    • The most accessible route to the toilet has step-free level access and a lift.
    • There is step-free level access into the facility.
    • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the door.
    • The door opens outwards and has a high visual contrast.
    • The width of the door opening is 80cm.
    • The door has a twist lock.
    • Internally the door has a high visual contrast.
    • There is a grab rail on the internal door with a high visual contrast.
  • Dimensions and Features View
    • The dimensions of the cubicle are 150cm (width) x 220cm (depth) and there is room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre (150cm x 150cm).
    • There is a lateral transfer space to the right as you face the toilet, however it is obstructed.
    • The lateral transfer space is 95cm (from the side of the toilet pan).
    • There is a push button flush on the wall above the cistern.
    • There is a horizontal grab rail on the non-transfer side.
    • The horizontal grab rail has a high visual contrast.
    • There is a vertical grab rail on the transfer side.
    • The vertical grab rail has a high visual contrast.
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The dropdown rail has a high visual contrast.
    • The toilet seat is 48cm from the floor.
    • The toilet seat has a low visual contrast.
    • The toilet has a padded backrest.
    • There is a wall mounted toilet roll holder which can be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder has a high visual contrast.
    • The toilet roll holder is 83cm from the floor.
    • The wash basin and taps can be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is 73cm from the floor.
    • The wash basin has a sensor tap.
    • The vertical grab rails are on both sides of the wash basin.
    • The wash basin grab rails have a high visual contrast.
    • There is a wall mounted soap dispenser which can be reached when seated on the toilet.
    • The soap dispenser has a high visual contrast.
    • The soap dispenser is 91cm from the floor.
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a wall mounted hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer has a high visual contrast.
    • The hand dryer is 88cm from the floor.
    • There is a pull cord emergency alarm within 10cm from the floor.
    • There is a full length mirror.
    • There is a shelf, however there is an obstruction in front of it.
    • The shelf does not meet the AccessAble criteria for Stoma Friendly Toilets.
    • The cubicle has a nappy/incontinence items bin and a sanitary bin.
    • There are no coat hooks.
    • The height of the baby change facility when in use is 80cm.
    • The walls and floor have a high visual contrast.
    • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
    • There is an additional toilet with adaptations on the second floor.

Lift (Sky Room Cinema)

  • The lift surveyed is located next to the cafe.
  • The distance from the cafe is 5m.
  • The most accessible route to the lift has step-free level access and manual doors.
  • The ground, first and second floors are accessed by this lift.
  • The lift door has a high visual contrast.
  • The lift has a level manoeuvring space in front of it for a wheelchair user (150cm x 150cm).
  • All of the external lift controls are at a suitable height for a wheelchair user.
  • The lift door opening width is 120cm.
  • The internal dimensions of the lift are 136cm (width) x 238cm (depth).
  • The internal lift control buttons have tactile markings, Braille markings and a high visual contrast.
  • All of the internal lift controls are at a suitable height for a wheelchair user.
  • Internally the lift has: a mirror to aid reversing, a hearing assistance alarm system, a visual floor indicator and an audible announcer.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
  • There are other lifts available at this location which vary in size.

Stairs (Sky Room Cinema)

  • The stairs surveyed are located to the left of the Sky Room Lift.
  • There are double manual doors to access the stairwell.
  • The ground, first and second floors can be accessed by these stairs.
  • There are 20+ steps between floors.
  • The steps are clearly marked and have handrails on both sides.
  • The handrails are easy to grip.
  • The handrails cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
  • The handrails extend horizontally beyond the first and last step.
  • The height of the steps is between 15cm and 18cm.
  • The depth of the steps is not between 30cm and 45cm.
  • Lighting levels were even at the time of the survey.
  • There are temporary, double manual doors to access the stairwell.
  • The doors are permanently held open.

Sky Room Cinema

  • Access To View
    • The screen is located on the second floor.
    • The most accessible route to the screen has step-free level access, a lift and doors permanently held open.
    • There is step-free level access into the screen.
    • There is written text signage on or near the door.
    • There are double manual doors with a low visual contrast.
    • The doors open towards you.
    • The width of the opening is 160cm.
    • There are a second set of double manual doors with a low visual contrast.
    • The second doors open towards you.
    • The width of the opening is 157cm.
    • The door is permanently held open before and after screenings.
    • There is a member of staff available for assistance at this entrance before and after screenings.
    • This entrance gives access to Row A, the front row.
    • There is step-free level access as you enter the screen.
  • Screen Information View
    • The following rows have step-free level access: Row A, the front row.
    • The following rows have stepped access: all upper rows.
    • Seating available in the screen includes: flip-down seats with armrests.
    • Lighting levels were low at the time of the survey, before and after screenings.
    • There are Relaxed cinema screenings (Sunday mornings)
    • There are Silver cinema screenings (Tuesday and Wednesday mornings)
    • There are Milk and Baby cinema screenings (Friday mornings)
    • Headsets for cinema audio description are available for loan.
  • Designated Seating View
    • The most accessible route to the designated seating has step-free level access.
    • The designated seating area is located Row A, the front row.
    • The designated seating area is not clearly marked or signed .
    • There are 2 designated spaces for wheelchair users.
    • Companions sit next to you and behind you.
    • Companion seating available includes: flip-down seats with armrests.
    • There is space for an assistance dog to rest.
    • Due to fire regulations the Sky Room Auditorium can only accommodate 2 wheelchairs.
      Please book in advance to reserve these seats.

Outdoor Spaces (Playscape)

  • The following is available in this area: a playground and a playground with play equipment.
  • Outdoor areas consist of rubber tarmac, grass and paving slabs.
  • There are footpaths throughout.
  • The majority of the paths are wide enough for wheelchair users.
  • There is step-free level access throughout the majority of areas.
  • The following areas have step-free access via ramps or slopes: some of the play facilities.
  • There are seats situated along the paths for people to rest.
  • Playground View
    • The following play experiences are available: sliding, climbing and viewing.