The splendour of Coronations and the Crown Jewels will be brought to Somerset in a new immersive light show arriving at Wells Cathedral this February. Crown and Coronation will bring the spectacle, significance, and shared experience of Coronations to life, demonstrating the pivotal role of the Crown Jewels, part of the Royal Collection, within the ceremony. Following its launch at the Tower of London in November 2023 the show is embarking on a UK wide tour of famous landmarks and locations, including Wells Cathedral.

Crown and Coronation has been created by Historic Royal Palaces – the charity that cares for the Tower of London – in partnership with Luxmuralis, as part of an artistic collaboration between artist Peter Walker and composer David Harper. The show will feature stunning imagery spanning more than 1000 years of history, enhanced by the magnificence of Wells Cathedral, where the projections and soundscape will sweep through the magnificent Gothic building. The Crown Jewels, the objects at the very heart of the Coronation ceremony, will be projected into Wells Cathedral through detailed footage and an emotive musical score, evoking the sensation of having a private audience with the magnificent collection.

The Crown and Coronation light show launches just months after the world witnessed the Crown Jewels in use at a Coronation for the first time in 70 years.

Anne Gell, Acting Dean of Wells, said,

“I am delighted to welcome the awe-inspiring Luxmuralis light show, ‘Crown and Coronation,’ to Somerset this February. This immersive experience will be the first of its kind at Wells, and a fantastic opportunity for local visitors–normally at least 100 miles from the Crown Jewels–to experience their splendour close-up, in the sacred context of this beloved Cathedral. Not only this, but it is a fabulous opportunity to explore the space anew, and to revel in the juxtaposition of medieval beauty and modern ingenuity.  It promises to be a unique encounter with history in which light, sound, and heritage converge.”

Charles Farris, Public Historian for the History of the Monarchy at Historic Royal Palaces, said,

“The Crown Jewels hold deep religious, historic, and cultural significance, and we are really excited to be bringing this magnificent collection to people around the UK following a historic Coronation year. Crown and Coronation will immerse visitors to Wells Cathedral in the rich history of the British monarchy, Coronations, and the Crown Jewels.”

Peter Walker, Sculptor and Artist at Luxmuralis, said,

“We are delighted to be working with Historic Royal Palaces on this spectacular light show, which will transform some of the UK’s most remarkable buildings into an articulating and evolving display of historic images, awash with light and accompanied by compositions which chart changes to music over the period.”

Tickets to Crown and Coronation will be available to book in advance via the Cathedral website and Eventbrite from the afternoon of  Friday 15 December 2023.

Admission £8 for under 16s and students (3 and under go free), with a standard rate of £12 for adults — Early booking is strongly recommended for this one-of-a-kind spectacle.

Frequently asked questions

Accessibility

The light show may involve steps up and down in some places, but a wheelchair accessible route that takes you through most areas will be available. Flooring throughout the Cathedral is uneven, so we recommend flat shoes. This event may trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy.

How long does the event last?

We recommend you give yourself between 45 minutes and an hour to experience the light show, but once you’ve entered the building you’re welcome to take your time!

How strict are the arrival and departure times?

It is important to arrive promptly as it may not be possible to admit latecomers due to the capacity of the building. Please leave plenty of time for parking and consider making parking arrangements in advance.

Where should we park?

There is extremely limited parking available on Cathedral Green (less than 30 spaces), but other organisations with parking may be offering space. More information will be given soon.

Is this experience suitable for children?

Yes! All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times in the Cathedral.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome in the Cathedral, but please consider whether your pet would be comfortable in this busy and loud environment, and whether the lights could scare or upset them. If you choose to bring your dog, they must be kept on a non-extendable lead at all times.

Can I bring food and drinks with me?

Unfortunately, no food or drink can be brought into the Cathedral except bottled water.

Can I take photos?

Yes! You’re very welcome to take photos. If you share them on social media, please tag Wells Cathedral! Please be aware that Wells Cathedral and invited press may be taking photos throughout, and by attending this event you give your permission for your photo to be used.

Can I buy a ticket at the door?

Yes, depending on availability. We recommend booking your tickets in advance.

Refunds and Exchanges

Tickets can be exchanged for alternative time slots if they are available. Refunds can only be issued for refundable tickets (terms and conditions listed above) unless the event is postponed or cancelled by Wells Cathedral.