The best things to do for autistic children and adults in London
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The UK population has one of the highest rates of autism anywhere in the world and it’s estimated that around 2.8m people are affected every day.
Thankfully London is an incredibly accommodating city with a host of theatres, museums and event spaces offering relaxed, fun experiences for children and families to enjoy together.
From theatre trips to museums and cinemas, these are some of the most autism-friendly things to do in the city.
Theatre
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Sometimes the theatre can seem an intimidating space for any family to tackle. There are plenty of venues making great efforts to include autistic audience members though and relaxed performances can be a fantastic way to take pressure off the experience.
These special events often see venues raise the house lights to create a less intense atmosphere, adopt a more casual approach to theatre etiquette and often provide chill-out areas for families to relax in.
The Lyceum Theatre is well known for its relaxed performances of the Lion King. The venue collaborates with The National Autistic Society for the events and trained staff are always happy to help out. The venue is next hosting a relaxed performance of the show on Sunday June 2. Book tickets here.
Shakespeare’s Globe is also making efforts to be more accessible with its 2019 season, with a total of sevens productions putting on relaxed performances between April and October.
Museums
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London’s museums are some of the best in the world and an increasing number are making experiences more comfortable for people with autism. Kensington institutions the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum are two such organisations putting on fantastic events aimed at bringing experiences to life for children. The free and interactive Dawnasaurs events at the Natural History Museum feature a sensory room and quiet space for maximum comfort, while the Early Bird and Night Owls events at the Science Museum allow families to enjoy workshops at off-peak times.
Families with autistic members can request 'hidden disability lanyards' at the Tower Of London's welcome centre, with members of staff happy to help and offer advice throughout the exhibits.
If you're in the centre of town the National Autistic Society recommends the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden as a great interactive experience.
Events and things to do
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Families looking to plan a sightseeing trip in the city can rest assured the London Eye will do all they can to accommodate them. The attraction offers discounted rates to guests with disabilities and even lit up pink for World Autism Awareness Day in recognition of their efforts to increase accessibility.
Trips to London cinemas are easier than ever too thanks to the likes of Odeon, Vue and Cineworld, who regularly host special screenings. Much like relaxed theatre performances the house lights are kept on during screenings to create a less intense atmosphere. The film’s sound effects are also toned down and the audience is told to expect higher background noise as families enjoy the movie.
Finally, The Gate in Islington has a great reputation for their accommodation and was recognised as London’s first ‘autism friendly’ restaurant back in 2016 by the National Autistic Society. It’s another good option for families looking to organise events in one of the most accommodating cities around.