Christmas Candlelit Photography Evening with Organ

Southwark Cathedral invite all amateur and professional photographers to spend an atmospheric evening in the Cathedral during advent.

As we look forward to Christmas, Southwark Cathedral invite all amateur and professional photographers to spend an atmospheric evening taking photos of the Cathedral lit by candlelight.  

With the dark winter evenings, marvel at the glow of hundreds of candles, as they flicker in the peace and calmness of the Cathedral, along with the fading light from outside which will give all of those interested in photography a chance to test their skills and enjoy the Cathedral after hours.

The silence of this holy space will be punctuated not just by the clicks and whirls of cameras but also by a soundtrack of late medieval plainsong. We are also delighted to announce that the evening will also feature a Christmas organ music recital by the acclaimed Cathedral organist Stephen Disley.

This beautiful and serene event is not to be missed. This is a chance to photograph the Cathedral as it would have been lit in the past.

Please note that we provide no equipment so please bring what you need. 

Tripods are welcome!

Spaces are strictly limited so early booking is recommended.

Please note that due to essential works taking place the North Transept will not be accessible for this event.

Keeping you safe

We are limiting this evening to a maximum of 30 participants only and will adhere to social distancing at all times. Hand sanitiser and hand washing facilities will be freely available across the Cathedral.

Some PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as disposable gloves and masks will also be available to use though we do encourage you to bring your own reusable mask if you have one.

A full refund will be made should this event need to be cancelled.

Please add your details to the Waiting List if you are unable to purchase a ticket and we will notify you if one becomes available or when our next photographic evening is taking place.

All photography taken on the day is for non-commercial use only and must not be used for any purpose other than personal use. 

FAQs

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

The Cathedral is located a 5 minute walk from London Bridge Mainline and Underground Station.  A number of buses also serve the local area and other underground stations nearby are Cannon Street and Monument.

Unfortunately there is no parking available at the Cathedral.

What can/can't I bring to the event?

We will not be providing any equipment for this event so please bring all that you need.

Where can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Please email the Retail & Visitor Manager Jon Dollin at [email protected]

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Yes please!

The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?

Yes, no problem at all.

Can I use any photographs I take on the evening for commercial use?

No. All photography taken on the evening is for non-commercial use only and must not be used for any purpose other than personal use. 

The promotional event image was taken at a past Photography evening by Aidan Cusack who has kindly allowed us to use it for this event.

How are we keeping you safe?

We are committed to the continued well being of all those who visit, work and worship at Southwark Cathedral.

In our on-going efforts to assist our community in preventing the spread of COVID-19, we have implemented the following enhanced protocols and procedures you will notice during your time with us.

Numbers are strictly limited to ensure ensure we adhere by social-distancing.

A designated entrance, at the Churchyard gates on Bedale Street and designated exit through the Millennium Courtyard on Montague Close.

A one way route through the Cathedral that reinforces physical distancing guidelines.

The provision of hand sanitizer stations throughout the site.

Freely available toilet facilities to promote frequent handwashing.

Card and contactless only payment facilities.

Frequent cleaning and disinfecting of touchpoints including handles, rails, seating and toilet facilities.

Face coverings are mandatory inside the Cathedral unless exempted.

What can I do to help?

Please visit us at another time if you or a member of your household or group are feeling unwell.

Wash your hands often using soap or water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser.

Wear a face covering.

Stay at least 1m+ away from others and follow the one way route around the Cathedral.

If you need to cough or sneeze, please do so into your elbow, not in your hand or the air.

Please note should this event need to be cancelled full refunds will be issued within 3-5 days of the event date.