Accessibility

At Suffolk Archives we believe that accessing archives should be enjoyed by everyone, and so our aim is to provide all visitors to our building and website with an accessible experience. We want you to enjoy your visit to The Hold, we offer a range of facilities, but our team are always happy to help with any further requirements.

If you need help or more information before or during your visit, our staff will be happy to help. Ask at the welcome desk, contact us by email archives@suffolk.gov.uk or call 01473 296666 with any questions.

‘Visual Story’ for our Building

The Visual Story is a guide with photos and a description of a journey through the building to support your visit to The Hold. 

Accessible Parking

We have two accessible parking spaces available on a first come, first served basis at The Hold Car Park, Long Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1LR.

Please note: Blue Badge Holders – Charges Apply

The Hold Car Park  - need a redirect to The Hold page

Total Spaces: 14; Blue Badge Bays: 2; Electric Charging Bays: 2

RingGo Code: 21854

Opening Times

The Hold Car Park is open when The Hold is open. The car park is closed and no parking is allowed when The Hold is closed.

Car Park Features

24-hour contact centre

Card payments

RingGo – Online app payment

RingGo – Phone payment

RingGo – Website payment

No new parking sessions permitted once The Hold is closed.

Car Parks | Facilities Management in Ipswich & Suffolk

Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the building.  

Toilets and Baby Changing

We have a Changing Places toilet facility which is a larger accessible toilet, with equipment such as a shower, hoist, an adult-sized changing bench, and space for carers and assistants as well as two other accessible toilets and baby changing facilities in four toilets.

Dedicated buggy/mobility aid parking

Located by the Wolfson Education Room.

First Aid

We have a dedicated First Aid room and access to those trained in Emergency First Aid.

Food and Drink

Refreshments are available in the café located at the front of our building. Please don’t take food or drink into the exhibition or archive spaces.

Hard of Hearing

Hearing loops are available in most of the building.

Accessibility Aids

A wheelchair is available from our dedicated First-Aid room. Please email archives@suffolk.gov.uk or call 01473 296666 to reserve it or enquire about availability at the Welcome Desk on arrival.

Ear Defenders are available from the Welcome Desk.

Maps

A map of our building is in the front of the building

Seating

Portable seating is available in our gallery spaces.

Accessible Events

Find out more about our accessible events at The Hold here

Our auditorium has wheelchair spaces and the front row also has step-free access.

Accompanying carers are offered a free ticket for any session when booked at the same time as a paid ticket