During the summer, Kitty and her brothers will explore a range of activities suitable for kids with sensory needs. Kitty is visually impaired, and her two brothers have Autism and ADHD, so we will be visiting a range of places and video reviewing them on the KittyVisionUK youtube channel. Below is a list of the free activities in London that Kitty and the boys will visit over the summer, and we will rate each place and link in the videos after each trip.
1: Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground: This playground is specifically created to provide an all-inclusive play experience for children with varying abilities, including those with disabilities and autism. The design is thoughtfully curated to feature a diverse range of sensory experiences, beyond the typical visual elements found in most playgrounds. With its wide range of sensory activities, this playground is suitable for children of all ages.The playground’s design is inspired by the magical world of Peter Pan and features a vast imaginative play area. Children can explore a pirate ship, sensory trails, teepees, and a beach. Every aspect of the playground’s design is tailored to encourage inclusive play, with quiet areas and accessible play equipment available to accommodate every child. Overall, this playground is a safe and welcoming space that fosters a sense of belonging and encourages children to explore, play, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Located in Kensington Gardens, London, W2 4RU.
- Public Transport: The nearest Tube station is Queensway (Central Line) or High Street Kensington (District and Circle Lines).
- Parking: Limited pay-and-display parking is available in the nearby streets
2: Chelsea Physic Garden: This garden is not only visually stunning, but it also provides sensory experiences through fragrant plants, different textures, and interactive features that children can enjoy. It is open to all ages and offers a chance to engage in sensory experiences. The Chelsea Physic Garden is a beautiful botanical garden located in the heart of London, founded in 1673 as the Apothecaries’ Garden. Its main purpose is to cultivate and research medicinal and useful plants, making it both historically significant and educational. Covering about four acres, the garden boasts a diverse collection of over 5,000 plant species, including medicinal plants, herbs, edible plants, and more. Themed areas include the Pharmaceutical Garden, the Garden of World Medicine, the Garden of Edible and Useful Plants, and the Rock Garden. The garden also features glasshouses like the Tropical Corridor and the Fernery. Visitors can enjoy a dedicated Sensory Garden that engages their senses through various textures, scents, and colours. This area is especially suitable for children and visitors with sensory sensitivities. Chelsea Physic Garden is committed to being accessible to all visitors, including those with mobility challenges. Wheelchair-friendly paths, accessible toilets, and seating areas are provided. The garden provides a serene and educational environment for visitors of all ages interested in learning about the fascinating world of plants, their historical uses, and their importance in medicine and everyday life. It is an inclusive destination for families with autistic children, with its Sensory Garden and various themed areas.
66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 4HS.
https://www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk/
- Public Transport: The nearest Tube stations are Sloane Square (District and Circle Lines) and Victoria (Victoria, District, and Circle Lines).
- Parking: Limited on-street parking may be available nearby, but it’s best to check local parking regulations.
3: Mudchute Farm: Mudchute Park and Farm in London is a great place for families with children of all ages to visit. Covering 32 acres of green space, it offers a rural experience within the city environment. The farm has a wide variety of animals, including sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, rabbits, and more. Visitors can get up close to the animals and even participate in feeding sessions and handling activities. In addition, the farm has gardens and nature areas to explore. Throughout the year, Mudchute Farm hosts special events, workshops, and activities for families and children. Some of these events include seasonal celebrations, farm-themed educational programs, and outdoor activities. The farm has wheelchair-friendly paths, accessible toilets, and some animal enclosures designed to accommodate wheelchair users, making it accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. For children with sensory disabilities, the farm offers a chance to engage with animals through touch and sound. Come and enjoy interacting with the animals at Mudchute Park and Farm, where visitors of all ages are welcome.
Pier Street, Isle of Dogs, London, E14 3HP.
- Public Transport: The farm is located near Mudchute DLR station.
- Parking: There is a car park at Mudchute Park and Farm, but it can get busy during peak times.
4: Coram’s Fields: Coram’s Fields is a unique park located in the heart of London that offers a safe and fun environment for children and young people to play and recreate. It is named after Thomas Coram, the founder of the world’s first home for abandoned children, the nearby Foundling Hospital (now the Coram charity). The park spans seven acres and includes various play areas suitable for children of different ages, with playgrounds featuring swings, slides, climbing frames, sandpits, and other play equipment. Additionally, there is a large sports area with football and basketball pitches and a paddling pool that operates during the summer months. The inclusive playground and facilities cater to the needs of children with sight impairment, Autism, and ADHD and are suitable for children up to the age of 16. The park prides itself on being inclusive and accessible to all children, including those with disabilities, with wheelchair-accessible play equipment and sensory elements. Coram’s Fields also offers facilities such as a café, toilets, and seating areas for parents and caregivers to relax while their children play.
93 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DN.
- Public Transport: The nearest Tube station is Russell Square (Piccadilly Line).
- Parking: There is no public parking at Coram’s Fields. It’s best to use public transport.
5: Science Museum: The Science Museum is an exceptional destination that caters to visitors of all ages, providing them with a unique opportunity to explore interactive exhibits on a variety of scientific topics. One of the highlights of the museum is the “Pattern Pod,” an exclusive area that offers a sensory play experience through touch and sound. This area boasts a diverse range of textures, shapes, and colours that are tailored to meet different sensory needs and preferences. Notably, the museum hosts regular autism-friendly events that feature reduced noise and lighting levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the exhibits comfortably. In summary, the Science Museum is an outstanding educational and recreational venue that provides enriching interactive exhibits and sensory experiences for all visitors.
Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 2DD.
https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/
- Public Transport: The museum is located in South Kensington, and the nearest Tube station is South Kensington (District, Circle, and Piccadilly Lines).
- Parking: Limited on-street parking may be available, but parking in the area is generally limited and expensive. It’s recommended to use public transport.