The National Museum of Ireland is now offering a designated quiet hour to create a calmer, more welcoming environment for visitors who may benefit from reduced sensory input across our museum sites in Dublin and Mayo.
The designated quiet hour will take place from 10:00 - 11:00 on the last Saturday of each month at Collins Barracks and Turlough Park.
During this hour, lighting in the galleries will be softened and audio-visual effects will be reduced where possible. Please note that, in any galleries where this is not possible, signage will be erected outside advising about any loud noises that might occur.
We are committed to being autism-friendly. Our staff are trained to support and promote awareness and understanding of neurodivergent visitors to help maintain a more soothing atmosphere.
Visitors are welcome to bring any sensory supports that help them feel more comfortable (e.g. sunglasses, headphones, sunflower lanyard, etc.).
As part of our mindfulness approach, visitors are encouraged to engage with our on-site educational resources and Museum Trails, which offer a reflective and calming way to connect with the Museum's Collection.
Synge & Byrne Café, located at Collins Barracks and Turlough Park, will also host our Quiet Hour, with reduced noise, lighting, and music to create a calmer and more relaxing environment.
We invite you to check back often for upcoming Quiet Hour events and to discover a more peaceful way to explore Ireland’s rich heritage.
QUIET HOUR: Sensory Friendly Time at the Museum
Saturday 29 November, 10:00 - 11:00
National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Take time to enjoy a visit to Collins Barracks during our designated Quiet Hour on Saturday, 29 November. This hour offers a calmer, more welcoming environment for visitors who may benefit from a reduced sensory input.
QUIET HOUR: Sensory Friendly Time at the Museum
Saturday 29 November, 10:00 - 11:00
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Explore the National Folklife Collection during a dedicated Quiet Hour on Saturday, 29 November. During this quiet hour, background music is reduced or turned off, and lighting in the Galleries are dimmed to create a more soothing atmosphere. Although we do not have designated quiet spaces, visitors can access the grounds of Turlough Park and can check quieter areas from visual guides within the Museum if they need a break from sensory stimuli.