Venue Description

The Fitzwilliam Museum is the largest of the University of Cambridge Museums. It has a large and notable collection of art and historical artefacts, many originating from the founder's collection bequeathed by Richard, VII Viscount Fitzwilliam of Merrion in 1816. As a former student of Cambridge University, he wanted to collection to be used for the 'increase of learning '. The collection includes British Art 16th - 20th Century, French Art 18th-19th Century, Italian Art 16th-19th Century, Spanish, Flemish and Dutch Art. As well as a large antiquities collection of Ancient Egyptian, Roman and Greek artefacts, and a ceramics collection ranging from European to Chinese objects. There's something for everyone!

Accessibility

The southern Courtyard Entrance provides street level access through automatic double glass doors, and is accessible from the Citi bus stop directly outside the gates to the museum. From this entrance, visitors can access the galleries on the ground floor, and galleries on the upper floor by lift. The Founders Entrance is reached by a flight of 18 stone steps from street level. From this entrance, visitors have either to climb 24 stairs to reach the upper galleries, or descend 16 stairs to reach the lower galleries.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: http://www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk/visit/access/

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: http://www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk/about/AccessPolicy.pdf

Accessible Performances

Some members of staff have received additional training to deliver touch tours, audio described tours and bespoke tours for groups with access needs. These tours must be booked in advance - please get in touch to discuss how we can support your visit. For scheduled touch and audio described tours please see our website.

Awards List

The Fitzwilliam Museum is an accredited museum

Toilets

Lavatories and baby-changing facilities are located near both entrances on the lower ground floor, including accessible toilets. Disabled toilets at the Courtyard entrance have wider doors for larger wheelchairs.

Staff

As part of staff induction, everyone working at the museum receives access, diversity and equality awareness training. Refresher programmes relating to best practice are made available to ensure staff knowledge and understanding are up to date. Some members of staff have received additional training to deliver touch tours, audio described tours and bespoke tours for groups with access needs. These tours must be booked in advance - please get in touch to discuss how we can support your visit.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

No off-lead exercise spaces on the museum site, however the museum is very near to parkland for walks along the River Cam.

Other assistance dog facilities

Water bowls are available for assistance dogs, please ask at the accessible Courtyard entrance.