Fountains by Floodlight has returned with a new projection show inspired by 900 years of history.
The annual event at Fountains Abbey near Ripon is celebrating its 94th year, giving visitors the chance to explore the illuminated ruins after dark.
This year’s event features a rolling six-minute show projected across the abbey’s West Door, bringing the stories of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal to life through light, colour, sound and movement.
The show was commissioned by the National Trust and created by artists Illuminos.
Milly Hodgson, Visitor Experience Officer at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, said:
“For generations, Fountains by Floodlight has offered visitors a way to experience the abbey after dark.
“This year, we're delighted to introduce a new projection show that adds another layer to the experience, bringing the stories of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal to life in an artistic, engaging and immersive way.
“Alongside the much-loved floodlit ruins, these projections provide a new feature that enhances the evening experience while celebrating the beauty and history of this special place.”
The first Fountains by Floodlight took place in 1932, when the Vyner family used luminaries to light the medieval ruins.
Alongside this year’s projections, visitors can explore glowing archways and shadowed pathways, join volunteer-led guided tours and hear live choral performances in the Cellarium.
Gregorian chants will also echo from Huby’s Tower, while seasonal food and drink will be available in the Mill Yard.
Rob Vale, from Illuminos, said:
“We were delighted to be invited to Fountains Abbey to create a new artwork, using the extraordinary ruins to tell their own story.
“As foliage and water, swans and parasols emerge across the archway, we hope that people are inspired to learn more about this remarkable space.”
Justin Scully, General Manager at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, said:
“Over 94 years, Fountains by Floodlight has evolved into a much-loved tradition, offering visitors the chance to experience the ruins of Fountains Abbey in a completely different way.
“Seeing the ruins illuminated against the night sky remains just as magical today as it was for those visitors in 1932 and while the floodlit ruins remain at the heart of the experience, these new projections offer visitors another way to connect with the history and beauty of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal.”
Fountains by Floodlight takes place on selected evenings throughout October, with booking essential.
Tickets cost £12 for adults and £6 for children. Under-fives, National Trust members and English Heritage members can attend free of charge but must still book a ticket.
Further information and bookings are available through the National Trust website.
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