Origins by Luxmuralis FAQ

Find information about what you can expect, booking tickets and information for disabled visitors and families.

If you cannot find an answer to your question on this page, please get in touch with our Sales and Admissions team on admissions@stpaulscathedral.org.uk – we will be happy to help.

General admission FAQ

What is Origins by Luxmuralis?

Origins is a bespoke immersive sound and light installation, created specifically for St Paul's Cathedral by the award-winning artistic collaboration Luxmuralis. Specialising in immersive fine art, light and sound, Luxmuralis has created extraordinary experiences in some of the UK's most iconic spaces.

How long will the experience last?

The experience lasts approximately 45 minutes to one hour. Please note that the timed slot provided with your ticket indicates your entry time only.

If you have purchased a ticket that includes Whispering Gallery access, you should allow an additional 30 to 45 minutes.
 

Do I have to enter at the booked time on my ticket?

To ensure everyone has a great visitor experience, ticket entry is strictly at the assigned time, and there is no facility to re-enter once you have left the event.

When should I arrive?

We advise you to arrive in good time, but no earlier than 30 minutes before your assigned slot.

Will I have to queue to enter the Cathedral?

There may be queues to enter Origins, so please come prepared for cold or wet weather. We recommend dressing warmly and bringing an umbrella just in case.

In advance of your ticketed time slot, you're welcome to visit the Crypt Café and shop. Our team will be on hand to keep you informed of any waiting times.

Is the event suitable for children and families?

Origins by Luxmuralis is suitable for people of all ages. Children under 6 years old are free but do require a ticket, and you will be able to bring buggies and prams onto the Cathedral floor should you need to. 

Where does the experience take place?

Origins begins in the Crypt and leads you up through the Cathedral Floor. For those who want to go further, add-on tickets to the Whispering Gallery offer an extraordinary view of the installation from above.

Will the café and shop be open?

Before or after experiencing Origins, we invite you to visit our Crypt Café for food and drink, or browse our Cathedral Shop for a unique gift or memento. Please note that food and drink may not be taken on the route and must be consumed in the Café or outside the Cathedral.

Can I bring a suitcase or bag with me?

To ensure everyone’s safety and security, bag checks will be carried out before entering the Cathedral by our security staff. We ask that you do not bring suitcases or large bags into the cathedral.

Find out more about our security measures and permitted bag dimensions by visiting our safety and security page.
 

Is the event accessible to those in wheelchairs or using mobility aids?

Entrance for those in wheelchairs or those requiring step-free access is via the North Transept entrance. This entrance provides direct access to the Cathedral floor. The main portion of the event takes place on the Cathedral floor, and wheelchair users can follow our accessible route to experience the artwork on the Cathedral floor.

Although we aim to make our Cathedral as accessible as possible, the access to the Whispering Gallery involves many flights of stairs and will unfortunately not be suitable for those in wheelchairs or with mobility issues.

Please note that access to the Crypt for wheelchair users is via a single lift. In the rare event of the lift being out of service, we regret that access to the Crypt will not be possible.
 

Can I bring a carer or companion with me?

Yes. If you are a disabled visitor, you are entitled to one complimentary carer or companion ticket. This can be added when you purchase your tickets online.

Will there be flashing lights?

Throughout the experience, there may be flashing lights that may not be safe for those with epilepsy and other conditions with sensitivity to light.

Can I take photos?

Yes - and we'd love to see them! Please tag us in your posts on social media.

Whispering gallery add on ticket FAQ

How can I get tickets to the Whispering Gallery?

For the first time, we're offering add-on tickets to the Whispering Gallery – giving you the chance to experience Origins from 99 feet above. Places are limited and must be purchased in advance.

Please note that reaching the Whispering Gallery requires climbing several flights of stairs, and this regrettably means it’s not accessible for wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility.

Can I buy Whispering Gallery tickets on the night?

Whispering Gallery tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.

When should I visit the Whispering Gallery?

If you have purchased Whispering Gallery add-on tickets, please arrive in time for your allotted entry slot on your ticket. 

Once inside, follow the general route around the Cathedral Floor. When you reach the stairs on the south aisle of the Cathedral, look out for signage directing you to the Whispering Gallery entrance. Please show your wristband – given to you on arrival – to our team member at the stairs. This is your entry ticket to the Whispering Gallery.

Once you descend, you can continue around the remainder of the route.

Please note that the route to the Whispering Gallery includes several flights of stairs and a narrow corridor. 

Can I take photos in the Whispering Gallery?

Yes – and we'd love to see them on social media! On arrival at the Whispering Gallery, you'll be given a phone holder with strap to keep your phone secure for the duration of your visit. Please use this throughout your time in the Gallery.

How long will I spend in the Whispering Gallery?

If you've purchased add on tickets to the Whispering Gallery, your visit to the gallery, including the climb up and down, should last between 30 to 45 minutes.

Is the Whispering Gallery accessible to those in wheelchairs?

Although we aim to make our Cathedral as accessible as possible, the access to the Whispering Gallery involves many flights of stairs and will unfortunately not be suitable for those in wheelchairs or with mobility issues.

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The dome and south transept lit with purple projections, featuring an image of the Old St Paul's Cathedral.

Origins by Luxmuralis

More information for your visit

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How to find us

View a location map of the Cathedral and learn how to reach us by different forms of transport.

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Ticket terms and conditions

Our terms and conditions apply when pre-booking sightseeing admission tickets, event tickets or concert tickets from St Paul’s Cathedral.

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Accessibility at the Cathedral

We have measures in place to improve physical accessibility so disabled visitors can enjoy a visit to the Cathedral.

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Safety and security

With 24/7 security protocols, well-trained staff and ongoing collaboration with local police and security organisations, St Paul’s is committed to keeping its visitors safe.