Chichester Cathedral unveils spectacular new light experience for October half term

Posted
20 Oct 2026
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First images reveal a breath-taking transformation as Illuminating Art makes its Sussex debut, inviting visitors of all ages to discover the Cathedral as never before.

Chichester Cathedral has unveiled its spectacular new Light Experience, Illuminating Art, ahead of its public opening on Friday 23 October, offering visitors an extraordinary journey through light, colour, moving images and music this October half term.

The first images reveal the scale of this year's brand-new experience, with monumental projections illuminating the Cathedral's ancient walls and soaring architecture, accompanied by an original musical score.

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The Nave at chichester Cathedral during the Chichester Light Experience, Illuminating Art

Created by internationally acclaimed artistic collaboration Luxmuralis, the partnership of artist Peter Walker and composer David Harper, Illuminating Art makes its Sussex debut this October half term. Featuring entirely new artwork, projections and music, it offers a completely different experience from the one enjoyed by visitors last autumn.

For nine evenings, from 23 to 31 October, the Cathedral becomes a vast, living canvas, taking visitors on a journey through centuries of artistic creativity and the evolution of visual storytelling.

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The North aisle in Chichester cathedral during the Chichester Light Experience, Illuminating Art

Visitors will have the chance to witness the drama of Baroque painting, with its striking contrasts of light and shadow, and discover the richly detailed, colourful world of the Pre-Raphaelites. The journey continues through the invention of photography, the remarkable innovations of the steam age and the earliest experiments with moving pictures, as images unfold, shift and transform across the Cathedral's magnificent architecture.

From wide-eyed youngsters and inquisitive teenagers to curious students, art enthusiasts and older generations, Illuminating Art is an experience for all ages. Whether visiting with family, catching up with friends or simply looking for something a little different to do, visitors are invited to discover the Cathedral through fresh eyes, with something to surprise, intrigue and inspire everyone.

"After months of planning and anticipation, it's wonderful to see the Cathedral transformed and to finally share this extraordinary experience with our visitors.

"We've been delighted by the response to advance ticket sales and would like to thank everyone who has already booked. As one of the Cathedral's principal fundraising events, the Light Experience plays an important role in helping us care for this remarkable building and ensure it continues to welcome and inspire future generations.”

Rebecca Lewry-Gray, Visitor Experience Manager at Chichester Cathedral.

Chichester Cathedral Light Experience: Illuminating Art runs from Friday 23 to Saturday 31 October 2026, with sessions from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Tickets cost £13 per adult, £9 per child, £36 for a family of four and under 5s go free.

Click here to book your tickets

Posted
20 Oct 2026
News category
General
Art and culture
Community
Fundraising