Venue Description

At the foot of a volcano in the historic city of Edinburgh lies Dynamic Earth, the UK’s leading earth science centre and planetarium . Our immersive, interactive and impactful visitor experience takes you on a journey through the story of our extraordinary planet, from beginning to mend. Be there at the moment of the Big Bang, rocket through the universe billions of times faster than the speed of light, feel the effects of a real volcano, get closer to understanding the polar ice caps by touching our iceberg, stare in wonder at the Aurora Borealis, watch powerful glaciers carve out entire continents, dive to the dark depths of the ocean, and avoid rainstorms in our tropical rainforest. All of this, plus our incredible planetarium, and an ever-changing schedule of activities and events makes Dynamic Earth Edinburgh’s must-visit attraction.

Accessibility

We endeavour to ensure that our facilities throughout the attraction are as inclusive to everyone as possible. Dynamic Earth is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramp access up to the entrance of the building and lifts throughout to navigate through the exhibition, and to gain access to and from the car park. Wheelchair access to the car park is via the internal lifts only. Please be aware these lifts are operational only during opening hours. There is drop-off access in the amphitheatre outside the front of the building Additionally, we have disabled toilet facilities on both sides of the building, which include handle rails and wide door access. For people with visual impairments additional information about the exhibits is available through audio guides. For people with hearing impairments, transcripts are available in English. We advise contacting us ahead of your visit via enquiries@dynamicearth.org.uk to discuss any other adaptations we may be able to make. For people with sensory needs, we have sensory bags, sensory maps, now and next cards and ear defenders. We permit assistance dogs in all areas of the attraction, however we would advise that some of the galleries have loud noises and flashing lights within them. Please note that we do operate strobe lighting within some of the galleries, which could affect people with epilepsy. Our guides are aware of all of these areas and can assist and advise visitors of their presence.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://dynamicearth.org.uk/plan-your-visit/visitor-accessibility/

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: https://dynamicearth.org.uk/dynamic-earth-Access-Statement-2023-Revised-05-Sept.pdf

Accessible Performances

We run Relaxed Opening hours throughout the year, this means the Dynamic Earth attraction and planetarium will be open with reduced visitor numbers and alterations made to our lighting and audio features to create a more relaxed experience. Please keep an eye on our ‘What’s On’ Calendar for our upcoming sessions. https://dynamicearth.org.uk/event/relaxed-opening-hours/

Awards List

Visit Scotland 5* Visitor Attraction Green Tourism Gold Award Visit Scotland 'Taste Our Best' Award

Toilets

Accessible toilets are available on both sides of the building. The toilets in the accessible bathroom are at a height of 46cm or 18in. the Sink is at a height of 69cm or 27in.

Staff

Our experienced staff team have been trained in disability awareness and will assist you whenever you need it to make sure everyone has a fantastic experience.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

We permit assistance dogs in all areas of the attraction, however we would advise that some of the galleries have loud noises and flashing lights within them.

Other assistance dog facilities

We have water bowls available outside the attraction for dogs.