FAQS: Arborialis Luminarium

A Luminarium is a large scale, walk in sculpture filled with radiant colour and gentle light. It’s a place to wander, to pause, and to feel a sense of wonder. Many visitors describe it as a peaceful labyrinth - a space for reflection, inspiration and quiet joy.

A Luminarium is:

• A walk in immersive experience for all ages
• A labyrinth of light and colour to explore at your own pace
• A fusion of art, architecture to inspire curiosity, reflection and wonder
• Fully accessible — wheelchair users and the SEND community are warmly welcomed.

Who is a Luminarium for?

Everyone. The Luminarium welcomes all ages, abilities, cultures and communities - perfect for a family day out, friends, or anyone curious to experience something unique. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (1 adult for up to 4 children). The structure is fully accessible for wheelchair users, who are welcome to visit at all times.

Is it suitable for children and young people?

Yes! Luminarium is suitable for all ages and a fantastic opportunity to introduce young people to cultural events. Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult over 18. Prams and pushchairs cannot to be taken into the Luminarium.

How long does a visit last?

An average visit may last 15–30 minutes. During busy periods, visits are restricted to 20 minutes to allow as many people as possible to enjoy the experience.

What is the guidance for Luminarium Visitors?

• The Luminarium is designed to be a calm and welcoming shared space
• For safety and to enjoy Luminarium experience please walk slowly during your visit – running, jumping or sliding is not permitted
• Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (1 adult per 4 children)
• Shoes must be removed before entering and are left in the reception area at the owner's risk
• Accessible to people in wheelchairs; prams and pushchairs remain outside
• No eating or drinking inside
• Please follow all instructions from event staff.

Who creates the Luminarium?

Luminarium is brought to you by Nottingham-based company Architects of Air, led by designer Alan Parkinson. Their exhibitions have travelled to over 40 counties across 5 continents, reaching over 3 million people to date. Inclusive to all, the experience is intended for audience of every age and ability with a particular care to ensure accessibility for wheelchair users and the SEND community. You can find out more about Architects of Air here: architects-of-air.com www.architects-of-air.com

When does it take place?

Luminarium will take place from 24–29 October 2026 and it will be open between the hours of 10.15am and 4pm. The piece uses natural light to create its daytime spectacle.

Where is it taking place?

Luminarium will take place at Woodhorn Museum.

Do I need a ticket?

Yes. Tickets are issued online in advance. We recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

Advance booking

Booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended. Tickets can be booked online for specific entry times. We advise advance ticket holders to arrive at Woodhorn Museum at least 20 minutes before the time indicated on the ticket. Please make your way to the Luminarium queue at least 10 minutes before the time indicated on the ticket. If advance tickets are sold out, you may join the on-site walk-up queue, though waiting times may be longer.

On the day tickets

If advance tickets are not fully booked, a limited number of on the day tickets will be available on site on a first come, first served basis. On the day entry is not guaranteed and booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

What should I expect during my visit?

On arrival, you will join either the advance ticket queue or the walk in queue. At the reception tent, visitors must remove their shoes before entering through an airlock. Inside, you will receive a short welcome introduction from the team and then will be free to explore the winding paths and domes, or simply find a quiet corner to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Most visitors’ first reaction is “wow” - the colours and light often take people by surprise. Everyone experiences the space differently: some wander every passageway; others sit and soak in the calm. Explore in whatever way feels right for you.

Is the installation accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters?

Yes, the Luminarium is accessible for wheelchair users. Wheelchair and mobility scooter users are requested to keep to paths that are in contact with the ground and to avoid tight turning circles that could stress the Luminarium fabric. If the ground is too soft after heavy rainfall, access may be restricted for heavier mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs.

Are guide dogs allowed inside?

The environment can be unsettling for dogs, even trained guide dogs, and barking may disturb other visitors. For safety and comfort, guide dogs must remain outside. Our team will ensure you are accompanied inside in an alternative way. If it is critical that guide dogs or support dogs enter the Luminarium please ensure you bring protective boots for your dog to wear.

Is it suitable for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing?

Yes. The Luminarium is predominantly visual and can be enjoyed by those who are deaf or hard of hearing. A gentle soundscape plays inside, but it contains no words and is not essential to enjoy the installation.

Is it suitable for visitors with a visual impairment?

Visitors with visual impairments are welcome. Luminarium is a highly visual installation that uses colour and light, though those with a visual impairment are welcome to explore the installation to enjoy the atmosphere and ambient soundscape. The Luminarium is not an environment that is suitable for guide dogs, so guide dogs should remain outside with a member of our team. If you have a visual impairment and would like to enter Luminarium, please make yourself known to a member of staff on arrival who can provide you with some more information and guide you. If it is critical that guide dogs or support dogs enter the Luminarium please ensure you bring protective boots for your dog to wear.

Are there relaxed sessions available for visitors?

Yes, we have relaxed session available each day for visitors who would benefit from a quieter experience with limited numbers. These sessions are available at 10.15am.

Flashing lights, seizure warning and sensory information

There are no flashing lights or artificial lighting. All colour comes from natural daylight passing through the structure. Up to 80 people may be inside at one time, so please be mindful of this if you are sensitive to busy environments. In wet weather the floor may become slightly damp. While staff will dry the floor, visitors might also wish to bring a spare pair of socks.

Is there seating inside?

There is no fixed seating, but visitors are welcome to sit or lie down anywhere within the structure.

Do you have wheelchairs or mobility scooters on site for public use?

Yes, we have a limited number of wheelchairs and scooters available for visitors to borrow whilst on site. Please let a member of staff know. The site is accessible for all wheelchairs.

Is there a disabled access toilet nearby?

Yes, there are disabled access toilets around the site at the museum, and a Changing Places toilet is located in the Cutter Building. Staff will be happy to direct you.

Will the installation close in bad weather?

Safety is our priority. As an inflatable structure, the Luminarium may close during high winds or extreme heat. It will reopen as soon as conditions allow. Please follow guidance from event staff on the day.

Can I bring a pushchair?

Pushchairs are not permitted within the structure and must be left by the entry point.

Is photography allowed?

Photography and filming are permitted and may occur. Please inform a staff member if you prefer not to be photographed. We ask that tripods are not used in the space.

Will there be food available?

The Winding House Café at Woodhorn Museum will be open for food and refreshments between 10.30am-3.30pm, hot food served until 2.30pm. There is also plenty of space around the Museum’s grounds if you like to enjoy a picnic before or after your visit to the Luminarium. No food or drink can be consumed inside the luminarium.

Is alcohol permitted?

No alcohol is permitted within the Luminarium

Where are my tickets?

Confirmation of your ticket booking will be emailed to you as soon as you book. Please check your spam folder if you cannot find them. Please download your ticket in advance to your mobile device or have a printed copy that can be checked on the day.

Can I collect tickets from the box office?

No, there is no collect at box office for this event. Confirmation of your ticket booking will be emailed to you as soon as you book. Please check your spam folder if you cannot find them. Please download your ticket in advance to your mobile device or have a printed copy that can be checked on the day.

I have not received my email confirmation, is this normal?

No, if you haven’t received an email confirming your ticket reservation, please send us details of your booking and when you booked your tickets. Please email: info@woodhornmuseum.org.uk

Will my tickets be posted out to me?

No, your tickets will be an e-ticket, please download your ticket in advance to your mobile device or have a printed copy that can be checked on the day. If you cannot find your ticket confirmation, please email: info@woodhornmuseum.org.uk

I have lost or mislaid my tickets; can I get duplicates?

Please email: info@woodhornmuseum.org.uk

What time should we arrive?

We advise advance ticket holders to arrive at Woodhorn Museum at least 20 minutes before the time indicated on the ticket. Please make your way to the Luminarium queue at least 10 minutes before the time indicated on the ticket.

Can I just show my e-mail confirmation to enter the event?

Yes, valid tickets will be accepted in all formats, whether printed or on mobile phone.

Is there a waiting list for tickets if they sell out?

No. We are not able to add names to a waiting list when the tickets are sold out.