Tag Archives: museum

Attractions, Days Out, Quingo Scooters

Quingo Scooters Accessible Attractions: Museum of London Docklands, London

For centuries, London has been one of the most important cities in the world. Starting in the 1600s, the Museum of London Docklands explores just how important the city was, telling the story of the Thames and its trade. Tracing the highs and lows of the London Docklands, you’ll learn everything for the city’s time as the most important port in the world to the decline in the 20th century. With recreations of the city, memorabilia and artefacts to discover, its perfect for any fans of history!

This week, Quingo Scooters is heading to the capital to learn all about its ports. As the winner of Time Out’s Love London 2015 award – and runner-up in 2016 – hundreds of visitors enjoy this attraction each year. Let’s see what makes the Museum of London Docklands so popular!

Quingo Scooters Museum of London Docklands
Editorial credit: Chrispictures / Shutterstock.com

What’s on

At the Museum of London Docklands, there are many exciting and permanent galleries to discover. Let’s see what’s on offer…

  • Introduction Gallery: Situated in the previous Number 1 Warehouse of the West India Docks, this gallery looks at how the historic docks and warehouses operated at the height of their success. Journey back a 100 years into London’s past and discover authentic memorabilia and footage of the docks. This immersive experience recreates the atmosphere of the bustling commercial Port of London. History truly comes to life!
  • Trade Expansion 1600-1800: This gallery is the perfect place to learn all about the merchants, sailors and pirates who brought the docks to life. Telling the story of how ships sailed from London to India and China, fans of history will love learning about how trade was done 500 years ago!
  • London, Sugar and Slavery 1600-present: While London has historically been a port of global significance, it has not always been a positive place. Looking back somberly on London’s past, this gallery covers how the trade in enslaved Africans and sugar shaped London. Here you’ll see the names of captains, owners and destinations of the ships that sailed from London to engage in this trade. While you’re here, make sure to check out the letters of Ignatius Sancho. Born on a slave ship in the mid-Atlantic and brought to England aged 2, his best-selling book was the first prose published in Britain by an African Author. This illuminating piece of work gives an incredible first-hand account of this period of London’s history.
  • City and River 1800-1840: Have you ever wondered how the London docks took shape in the 19th century? In this gallery, you’ll discover the transformation of London through the cast new docks. As early 19th century brought great change to London’s river and port, new bridges spanned the Thames and a tunnel was dug beneath it. With the fortune of London always being tied to the river Thames, this attraction uncovers how the river was utilized to build a modern city. It’s the perfect place to learn how London transformed into the city we know today.
  • Sailortown 1840-1850: At any port in the 19th century, you were sure to find one type of person. Sailors. These men brought exotic animals, foreign delicacies and money with them, with the ports set up to entertain them after long and dull sea voyages. In this immersive experience, the Museum of London Docklands has recreated the atmosphere of London’s Sailortown. This evokes the sights, sounds and smells of Victorian London, as the twisting passages offer secrets and surprises to uncover. From the printer – where sailors could sell or trade books – to the seedy sailors’ taverns, you’ll experience what life was like for these men. It’s a must-see for any visit to the museum!
  • First Port of Empire 1840-1880: London was once the hub of the world’s largest empire. As British power and trade spread across the globe, so the port of London grew and prospered. Here you’ll learn more about London and Britain at the peak of its powers as the centre of world trade. Make sure to see the model of the SS Great Eastern while you’re here – it was one the largest ship ever built in the world.
  • Docklands at War 1939-1945: Did you know that the London Docklands were the first target in the London Blitz? Late in the afternoon of Saturday 7 September 1940, the Luftwaffe launched a massive daylight raid on London – the first of many attacks on the capital. Here you’ll learn all about how the Port survived this attack and provided vital aid in the war effort, from Dunkirk to D-Day.
  • New Port, New City 1945-present: Moving towards the present, this gallery recounts the highs and lows of London’s upriver docks, including their closure from the 1960s to the 1980s and their resurgence as the site of Europe’s largest regeneration project. Here you’ll hear and understand how London’s docks became the area we’ve come to know. Make sure to visit the reconstruction of the Underground station – perfect for learning how new tube lines has linked the Docklands to the rest of the city!

Where to eat and drink

At the Museum of London Docklands, there are a number of delicious excellent cafes and restaurants that make the perfect place to rest. Serving hot and cold meals, sandwiches, cakes and fair-trade tea and coffee, there’s a wide range of tasty treats on offer. The full list of available restaurants and cafes is available here, with something to cover all needs!

Opening times and prices

The Museum of London Docklands is open from 10am to 6pm daily, except for 24-26 December and 1 January. Entry into the museum is free.

Quingo Scooters Museum of London Docklands

Getting there

The attraction is located by the West India Quay and is accessible by all major forms of transport. If you are travelling by car, the postcode is E14 4AL. There is a car park located behind the museum on Hertsmere Road, with Blue Badge spaces available. The nearest tube stop is Canary Wharf. Frequent buses also service the area. Full information on getting there can be found here.

Accessibility

The Museum of London has been made fully accessible for all guests. This includes galleries, learning rooms, the café, shop and theatre. Accessible toilets can be found on the ground and third floor of the museum, with fully accessible lifts providing access to all floors and public spaces. The information desk has an accessible counter. Blue Badge parking spaces can be found in the public carpark behind the museum. Further information on accessibility can be found here.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme, which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this, or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up-to-date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up-to-date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC). AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Attractions, Days Out, Quingo Scooters, Tips and Advice

Quingo Scooters Accessible Attractions: The Roald Dahl Museum

The spellbinding Roald Dahl Museum brings to life the awe-inspiring works of Roald Dahl. As one of Britain’s most beloved authors, a visit here puts your imagination centre-stage as you venture into his life’s work. With interactive exhibits and mementoes from his life on display, there’s a lot to explore and learn about in this award-winning museum.

This week, Quingo Scooters is visiting Buckinghamshire to learn all about Roald Dahl and his famous works. From being measured against famous characters, including Charlie Bucket and Miss Trunchbull, to seeing his handwritten manuscripts, it’s a fun and playful day out. Let’s see what’s on offer…

Quingo Scooters Roald Dahl Museum
Editorial credit: Simon Vayro / Shutterstock.com

What’s on

The museum has 3 permanent galleries (Boy, Solo and The Story Centre) and an incredible range of changeable events and workshops:

  • Boy gallery: Here you’ll discover all there is to know about Roald Dahl’s childhood. From his love of chocolate to schoolboy pranks, take a journey through his Welsh upbringing. With archives available on a touch-screen, you can look through his family photos and see the illustrious author as a small boy.

Must see: Don’t forget to look out for the hidden treasures. Inspired by his autographical work Boy, you’ll have fun searching for the mouse in the gobstopper jar or smelling the giant chocolate doors. This gallery is a sensory feast!

  • Solo gallery: Inspired by his second autobiographical work, Going Solo, this gallery showcases the adventures of the author as a young adult. Starting with his journey to Africa, you’ll travel through the real-life adventures that inspired Dahl to become a writer. Find out about his experiences in the RAF in the Gladiator cockpit and use a Sparkometer to test your sparkiness. Fans of the author will love this insight!

Must see: Ever wondered where Roald Dahl wrote most of his famous works? In this gallery, you’ll experience the unique atmosphere of the writers original Writing Hut and be amazed by his collection of quirky mementoes. With secrets and surprises to discover, from peep-holes to secret drawers, there’s so much to find.

  • The Story Centre: Acting as the Museum’s creative hub, this is a must-see for all aspiring authors! With displays to inspire story-making and writing, you’re sure to take so much away from this experience. Whether you’re listening to top tips from your favourite authors, sitting in a replica of Roald Dahl’s writing chair, making a stop-frame animation or even creating a character or gobblefunk word, you’ll be inspired. This is the perfect place for letting your inner child run free!
  • Billy and the Minpins Exhibition (open until 15 April): are you interested in the amazing pictures that accompany Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s books? If so, this exhibit is perfect for you. Here you’ll see some of Quentin Blake’s illustrations for the new edition of Dahl’s last book Billy and the Minpins. With each one displayed alongside extracts from the manuscripts, witness the beautiful illustrations bring the story to life.
  • Discover Dahl’s Archives: Taking a unique behind-the-scenes peek at the museum’s collections, here you’ll find original manuscripts and letters written by the author. Taking a guided tour, the Collections team will introduce you to the highlights of this immense collection. This enlightening and fascinating look into the world of Roald Dahl is available on 10th March and is a must-see for all fans!
  • Chiddlers’ hour: Every Friday at 10.30am, the Chiddlers’ hour celebrates another of Roald Dahl’s famous books. Come along for songs, crafts and plays based on these stories and step inside the magical world of Roald Dahl’s creations. With this month celebrating James and the Giant Peach, The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Fantastic Mr Fox, this is a must-see for all young fans!
  • World Book Day Celebration: Taking place on Saturday 3 March, World Book Day celebrates reading. What better way to spend this day than learning all about Britain’s favourite children’s author? At the Roald Dahl Museum, there’s so much to see and do on this day. From listening to fascinating Writing Hut Talks to making a Dirty Beast in the Crafty Kitchen, you’ll be amazed as the creative mind of Roald Dahl comes to life around you. After you’ve finished following the trail around all parts of the museum, your World Book Day voucher can even be used in the shop for a discount on books. A great way to discover (or rediscover) Dahl’s enchanted works!

Must-see: As part of the World Book Day celebrations, artist Georgia Davy is on hand to help you create Hornswoggler Heads. As one of the fantastical characters from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this animal is a splendid example of the incredible imagination of its creator. With this workshop, you’ll be able to turn yourself into this fearsome beast!

Eating and drinking

A café is open to both the general public and museum guests from 9am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday, and 10am to 5pm on Sunday. Here you can find a delicious range of freshly prepared food and drinks, including jacket potatoes, sandwiches, paninis and soup. There are also a wide range of sweet treats on offer, such as the Bogtrotter chocolate cake, scones, slices and cupcakes. In addition, fresh loaves of bread can be picked up from the café. Any questions about allergies, opening times or menus are answered here.

Quingo Scooters Roald Dahl Museum

Opening times and prices

The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm, with opening times reducing to 11am to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays. It is closed most Mondays, with exceptions shown here. The price of entry varies, with a full breakdown of admission costs available here.

Getting here

Situated in Great Missenden, the Roald Dahl is in the heart of the Buckinghamshire countryside. It is accessible by all major forms of transport. If you are travelling by train, the great Missenden train station is nearby. If you are travelling by car, the postcode is HP16 0AL. There is no on-site parking, however, Blue Badge parking is available at Link Road car park and the train station car park. Frequent buses also service the area. More information on how to get here and the relevant timetables can be found here.

Accessibility

The Roald Dahl Museum is fully accessible for all guests. As a step-free site, the entire experience is accessible via smooth floors. There are ramps to the café area and 2 fully accessible toilets within the exhibition. Although there is no on-site parking, Blue Badge parking can be found at Link Road car park, situated around 5 minutes away from the museum. Further information on accessibility can be found here.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme, which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this, or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up-to-date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up-to-date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC). AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Attractions, Days Out, Quingo Scooters

Quingo Scooters Accessible Attractions: Museum of London, London

Covering the expansive history of the city of London, the Museum of London tells the story of the city and its people. Travelling from the prehistoric times to the present day, this museum gives an extensive view of life in the city through time. Whether you’re exploring a recreation of a Victorian London street or seeing the original boundary of the city, the London Wall, you’ll experience everything about London’s rich history!

This week, Quingo Scooters is travelling to England’s capital city to learn all about its history! With 9 permanent galleries stretching over 455,000 years, let’s see what’s happening at the Museum of London…

Quingo Scooters Museum of London3

What’s on

  • London Before London: Taking a tour from 450,000 BC to 50 AD, this exhibit explores the lives of people living in the Lower Thames Valley. Travelling up to the creation of the Roman city of Londinium, you’ll see amazing artefacts from the Neolithic period such as a mace head, axes and pots. Spanning an epic 455,000 year period, witness everything from the jaw of a mammoth from 200,000 BC to an Iron Age chariot fitting.

Must see: Did you know that 125,000 years ago hippos lived in Trafalgar Square? London’s prehistoric landscape was once similar to today’s central African planes. You’ll learn so much more in this exhibit, discovering a London vastly different from the one we know today!

  • Roman London: From 50 to 410 AD, the Romans built the city where London now stands. Known as Londinium, the attraction charts the rise of London as a vital international port. From the Bucklersbury Mosaic dating to 250 AD, to the Roman tomb of Claudia Martina from 200 AD, you’ll experience an up-close and detailed view of London under Roman rule.

Must see: Strategically built by the Romans around Londinium, the London Wall was a defensive wall built around the port town surrounding the River Thames. Part of this wall still stands at the museum and is a must-see. The largest construction project carried out in Roman Britain, here you’ll witness the origins of the City of London.

  • Medieval London: From religious and political controversy to fire, famine and disease, London in the Medieval period was far from boring! Following the collapse of the Roman city right up to the accession of Queen Elizabeth I, journey through the history of London from 410 AD to 1558. Step back in time into the heart of medieval London using interactive maps to explore how London grew from the remains of Roman influence. From Viking battle axes to a reconstruction of a late Saxon house, is a truly immersive experience.
  • War, Plague and Fire: As one of the most turbulent times for citizens of London, the century from the 1550s to 1660s experienced much strife. In this exhibit, you can discover London as a divided city. Home to both Hedonists and Puritans, explore the death and disaster experienced in the capital. From the execution of King Charles I in 1649 and the rise of a Republican Britain, to the plague in 1665 and the Great Fire of 1666, history comes to life. Learn what life was like in 17th century London for a prosperous family in their amazingly detailed reconstruction of a Stuart room. If you’re a big fan of history, why not pay a visit to Lord Protector and republican ruler Oliver Cromwell’s death mask? There’s a lot to do and see in this exhibit.

Must see: Try on a replica of a 17th century helmet worn by firefighters of the time! As the great Great Fire spread through London in 1666, this would be the style of helmet those tasked with calming the blaze would have worn. Here you can compare it to a modern helmet worn by the London Fire Brigade and see how far their uniform has come!

  • Expanding City: Showing life after the Great Fire of London, watch how the city rebuilt itself and became the world’s largest city and Britain’s manufacturing centre. Showcasing the highs and lows of society, you’ll see the prosperity and debt-filled failure of Londoners of the time. There are displays of London high society featuring fans, duelling pistols and a magnificent gowns worn in 1753. On the other end of the spectrum, the attraction features Wellclose Square debtors’ cell with graffiti of the prisoners carved in. You’ll see a wide cross-section of London life in this period.
  • People’s City Gallery: Punctuated by 2 World Wars, this gallery travels from the 1850s to the 1940s. Displaying how London became the wealthiest and most powerful city in the world, here you’ll see how technology became to change the lives of Londoners. Whether you see one of the first taxis on London streets or the Selfridges lift from 1928, this exhibition explores the rise of modern life and how industrialization changed the city.

Here you’ll also witness the political changes to the city. With the suffragette movement fighting to get the vote for women, the gallery tells the story of the 1,000 women who suffered imprisonment in their struggle. From the banner from one off their marches to a hunger strike medal from 1912 presented to suffragette Florence Haig, their fight comes to life.

In addition to this, the Blitz interactive creates an immersive experience surrounding the Second World War. Step into the war and explore the stories of Londoners from this period. A 50kg German-made incendiary bomb even hangs in mid-air. If you’re interested in the Second World War, this is a must-visit!

Must see: In the gallery’s immersive Victorian Walk experience, you’ll be able to step back in time and wander down a reconstruction of the winding streets of 19th century London. Whether you window shop at the toy shop, tobacconist tailor or pawnbroker, or visit the barber’s chair, 19th century London comes to life. Make sure to stop off at the reconstruction of Lyon’s Corner House restaurant window!

  • World City: Travelling from the 1950s to present day London, this gallery is a celebration of the multicultural city we know. From the Windrush generation of the 1950s, to the punk movement of the 1970s, to the diverse and modern industry of present day London, here you’ll learn all about what makes London great.

Must see: London is undoubtedly a centre for fashion, so this gallery charts key fashions from the last 70 years! The mod fashion revolution spearheaded by the Beatles in the 1960s and 1970s is displayed in a case. Sourced entirely in London markets, a full outfit worn by punk singer Marian Williams is on show. Don’t miss the Adidas Team GB swimming trunks worn by Tom Daley during the London 2012 Olympics!

  • The London 2012 Cauldron: Fans of sport are sure to love this iconic piece of London’s history! Thomas Heatherwick’s London 2012 Cauldron is on display, while dramatic footage and exclusive testimony set the scene. Recapturing the journey from design to the opening and closing ceremony of the games, here you can relive the triumphant 16 days of British and World sport!

Where to eat and drink

At the Museum of London, there are several delicious excellent cafes and restaurants serving hot and cold meals, sandwiches, cakes and fair-trade tea and coffee. The full list of available restaurants and cafes is available here, with something to cover all needs!

Opening times and prices

The Museum of London is open 10am-6pm daily, except for 24-26 December. The cost of admission is free. However, there are donation boxes throughout the attraction should you wish to help with the running costs of the museum. More information on opening times and prices can be found here.

Quingo Scooters Museum of London 2

Getting there

Located on London Wall, the entrance has lifts and escalators from street level. If you are travelling by car, the building can be found at the postcode EC2Y 5HN. Located underneath the Museum of London building, there are several Blue Badge Parking Spaces which should be booked in advance. The nearest tube stations are St Paul’s, Moorgate and Barbican. The area is serviced by several local buses, full information on getting there can be found here.

Accessibility

The Museum of London is fully accessible for all visitors. This includes galleries, learning rooms, the café, shop and theatre. Accessible toilets are on all museum floors, with fully accessible lifts providing access to all floors and public spaces. The information desk has an accessible counter. Blue Badge parking spaces can be found underneath the museum in the car park. Further information on accessibility can be found here.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme, which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this, or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up-to-date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up-to-date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC). AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Attractions, Days Out, Quingo Scooters

Quingo Scooters Accessible Attractions: The People’s History Museum, Manchester

Aimed at showing visitors that ‘there have always been ideas worth fighting for’, the People’s History Museum in Manchester is the national museum of democracy. Taking an immersive and interactive tour of Manchester and Britain, you’ll experience political and social change from the Peterloo Massacre of 1819, right up to the present day. From key speeches by notable figures to explorations of the average life, the museum gives a comprehensive and stunning view of the past. As a key cultural attraction of Greater Manchester, over 100,000 people a year come to see the incredible revolution and reform started in Manchester.

This week, Quingo Scooters is heading to Manchester to learn more about the impact Manchester has had on the democracy of Britain. With two permanent galleries, 7 themes, 1500 historic objects and many interactive exhibitions, there’s so much to see. Let’s get started…

Quingo Scooters People's History Museum 2
Editorial credit: 4kclips / Shutterstock.com

What’s on

There’s always something exciting on at the People’s History Museum in Manchester. With a selection of permanent and temporary exhibitions, make sure to check here to see what’s on offer.

  • Main Gallery One: This is home to a march through time. Covering Britain’s struggle for democracy over 2 centuries. Divided into 7 themes and 2 galleries, you’ll follow a chronological order of British and North West history. These themes are revolution, reformers, workers and voters. With a wide range of interactive and almost 1,500 historic objects, this immersive experience takes you through political and social reform over 200 years. From the rise of Manchester at the centre of Britain’s Industrial revolution to the formation of Trade Unions, you can explore the movements that created society as we know it!

Must see: Did you know that the Suffragette movement was born in Manchester? This gallery covers the formation of the Manchester Society for Women’s Suffrage in 1867 and the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) founded in Manchester by Emmeline Pankhurst and her sisters in 1903. With banners, posters and minutes from meetings, the journey for women’s right to vote is covered in amazing detail. A must-see for all interested in politics and revolution!

  • Main Gallery Two: Starting in 1945 at the end of World War II, this journeys through political and social upheaval. Showcasing the shift of politics from parties to issues, war and peace, equality, strikes and migration are all covered here. You’ll even see incredible insight into the working-class leisure activities popular in the mid-20th century, including football and music from Manchester.

Must see: Showcasing both sides of famous protests, history is visually brought to life. With an audio-visual show that helps to create the atmosphere of a march or protest, the noise and fluttering banners creates an unforgettable experience!

  • Savage Ink: Through many publications, this exhibition presents the history of the satirical cartoon. From its pioneering start in the late 18th century through to those artists working on graphic novels, newspapers and comic books today. Presenting the cartoon as an important form of visual protest, the historical importance of the art form is brought to life.

Must see: The satirical cartoon has documented some of the biggest moments in the long fight for suffrage and representation. This exhibition presents rare historical cartoons from William Hogarth, James Gillray, Steve Bell and Peter Fluck. This showcases the incredible impact these cartoons had presenting a relatable and honest portrayal of history.

  • The House of Kings and Queens: Manchester has long had a proud history of supporting the LGBT community. In this spectacular exhibition, documentary photographer Lee Price presents striking images of LGBT life from Sierra Leone. This is part of Queer Contact Festival 2018, celebrating LGBT arts and culture across Greater Manchester. Providing amazing insight into the struggles faced daily for LGBT in Sierra Leone, this exhibition is not to be missed!

Where to eat and drink

The Left Bank café bar offers a wide selection of food from snacks and hot meals including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Whether you want to enjoy a hand-crafted coffee, seasonal British food or try some of the best local ales Greater Manchester has to offer, the Left Bank café bar has it all. On sunny days, you’ll even be able to enjoy the café’s riverside terrace! More information on what’s available can be found here.

Opening times and prices

The People’s History Museum is open 10am to 5pm daily, excluding 24-26 December and 1 January. On the second Thursday of the month, the museum is open from 10am to 8pm. Admission to the museum is free, with most events also free of charge. Donations are welcome while you are there. Further information can be found here.

Quingo Scooters People's History Museum 3

Getting there

Located in Spinningfields, Manchester, the museum is accessible by all major forms of transport. It is 5 minutes away from the centre of Manchester, and serviced by frequent bus and metrolinks. The nearest railway station is Salford Central. If you are travelling by car, there is ample Blue Badge parking. This is available on New Bailey Street, Stanley Street and St Mary’s Street, all of which offer on-street parking bays. More information on getting there can be found here.

Accessibility

The People’s History Museum is fully accessible for all visitors. With ramps up to the main entrance, there is an automatic opening leading to the reception area. The attraction has lifts to all floors and accessible toilets on the lower ground, ground and second floor. Blue Badge parking is available close by at New Bailey Street’s on-street parking, pay and display machine parking bays on Stanley Street and on St Mary’s Street. Should you want to contact the museum for more information on accessibility, you can call on 0161 838 9190 or emailing at [email protected]. Full information on accessibility can be found here.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme, which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this, or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up-to-date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up-to-date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC). AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Attractions, Days Out, Quingo Scooters, Reviews

Quingo Scooters Accessible Attractions: Thackray Medical Museum, Leeds

Taking an incredible journey through the history of medicine, the Thackray Medical Museum is a completely unique experience. With 9 interactive galleries, the fascinating exhibitions and collections take you on an incredible journey through historical techniques and advancements in medicine. From watching a surgery restaging from 1823 to walking through Victorian street reconstruction, Thackray Medical Museum transports you into the heart of medical history.

This week, Quingo Scooters is in Leeds to learn all about the history of medicine. Housed in an impressive Victorian building, the history of medical technology is really brought to life at this award-winning venue and is a must for anyone interested in medicine, science or history. Let’s take a look at what’s on…

Quingo Scooters Thackray Medical Museum Iron Lung
Photo: Chemical EngineerWikimedia Commons

What’s on

  • Health choices: Ever wondered what medicines were available to people living in Victorian times? This exhibition explores exactly that. With real cures being rare at the time, you’ll see some of the more unconventional options available, such as the many ways sea water was used.

Must see: The personal medicine chest of Prince Albert. This incredible piece of history shows how the nobility of the time were treated, how they stored their medicine and the unorthodox techniques used. You’ll be amazed at how far medicine has advanced since!

  • Wilkinson Apothecary Gallery: With over 600 on display, The Wilkinson Apothecary Gallery houses the Thackray Medical Museum’s unique collection of apothecary jars. This is the largest collection of its type in the world, spanning several centuries, from the 1500s to the 1800s. With 400 English examples and 200 from Italy and other countries, jars were used by pharmacists to store medicines. These beautiful jars are impressive works of art.
  • Hannah Dyson’s Ordeal: This galley raises the important question: would you rather go to the hospital now or in Victorian times? You’ll definitely make up your mind in this retelling of the true story of 11-year-old Hannah Dyson. After her leg was crushed by machinery at a mill where she worked in 1823, the surgeons fought to save her life. This display walks you through what happened to her, with realistic audio-visual displays highlighting the horror of surgery at this time. This isn’t for the faint hearted!
  • Pain, pus and blood: This exhibition brings to life the gruesome realities of surgery in this era to life. Providing a captivating insight into the history of medical procedures, this gallery highlights the truly incredible advances in surgical techniques that have been achieved since.
  • Life Zone!: Designed for younger guests, the fun, educational and interactive experience is a great learning tool. Whether they want to follow the progress of a pea through the intestines, discover how high they can jump, or even see how long human intestines are, all their medical questions will be answered here.
  • Having a baby: How much has the process of having a baby changed throughout the years? This exhibition draws on real-life stories to explore the history of pregnancy and giving birth, from the 1890s to the present day. Showing the development of pain relief, the rising need for qualifications and improving survival rates for both women and children. Anyone interested in childbirth will love this insight.
  • Leeds 1842: Transporting guests back to 1842, this exhibition introduces the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian street in the city. This interactive experience allows you to talk to characters living in this authentically recreated street. You can explore and discover what their homes are like, what’s causing their ailments and what can be done to help cure them.

Must see: The Disease in Retreat section. Serving as the perfect antidote to the disease-ridden Victorian street, this section offers a view into how science has tackled these illnesses over the years. You’ll experience an interesting look at the revolution in treatment and medical practice. The 19th century notions of health are particularly interesting contrasts to our modern-day understanding. This is a must for all interested in medical and scientific history!

  • New Frontiers of Surgery: Starting in the mid-1800s, you’ll travel through a showcase of surgical procedures in this enthralling gallery. The star of this exhibition is the introduction of general anaesthetic and antiseptics, highlighting how this paved the way for modern day procedures such as organ transplants.
  • Medicine and History Lecture Series: Those with an interest in all things medical will love this lecture series. A highly popular series of talks and discussions look at a wide range of topics and factors that have influenced changes in medicine and health. Whether you’re a trained medical professional or have little knowledge of the subject matter, these fascinating talks are great learning experiences for all. Each lecture presents different and entertaining speakers. A full schedule can be found here.
  • Paranormal Investigations: Do you believe in ghosts? If so, the Thackray Medical Museum is the place for you. Reputedly one of the most haunted buildings in Leeds, the museum is a popular venue for professional ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a believer or a sceptic, the Ghost Nights at Thackray are interesting insights into the paranormal.

Where to eat and drink

The Thackray Medical Museum has a café onsite that offers a range of food and drinks. Their menu includes a selection of tasty and homemade options, such as seasonal soup, made to order sandwiches, paninis and jacket potatoes with a variety of fillings. On weekdays, you can even find two hot daily specials! If you’re in a hurry, you can pre-order food to be ready at a time to suit you. The café also offers a traditional afternoon tea with a range of freshly made sandwiches and cakes.

What’s more, Leeds NHS staff receive a 10% discount in the café by simply showing their badge at the till. The menu and opening times for the café can be found here.

Quingo Scooters Thackray Medical Museum Midwife
Photo: Chemical EngineerWikimedia Commons

Opening times and prices

The Thackray Medical Museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm, with last admissions at 4.15pm. On every third Thursday of the month, the museum offers late night opening until 8.30pm, with last admissions at 7.45pm. Prices vary per person, you can view the price list here.

Getting there

Located next to St James’s University Hospital in Leeds, the museum is 2 miles from the city centre and is accessible by all major forms of public transport. If you’re travelling by car, follow the signs for York (A64) and then follow the brown tourist signs for the Thackray Medical Museum. There is on-site Blue Badge parking. The area is also serviced by frequent bus services. More information on getting there can be found here.

Accessibility

Thackray Medical Museum is accessible to all guests. There is plenty of seating throughout the attraction, with lifts to all floors. Throughout the venue, accessible toilets can be found. Free Blue Badge parking is available at the museum’s on-site car park, as well as additional Blue Badge parking at the multi-storey on Beckett Street. More information can be found here.

About Quingo

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