Field for the British Isles – Booking FAQs

  • Why do I need to book a slot?

    Due to the quiet, contemplative nature of the exhibition and the viewing space available, a maximum of six people can view the installation at a time. Timed entry tickets are available for a group of up to six people at any one time to view the exhibition for ten minutes. This will allow us to safely manage entry into the gallery in order to give all visitors the best possible experience whilst viewing the work.

    Please note that only visitors who have pre-booked a slot will be granted access to the exhibition.

  • How much are tickets?

    Your ticket is completely free – but a donation to support our work is a massive help. You can make a donation to support us as you book your ticket or during your visit to National Glass Centre.

  • What happens if I can no longer attend on the day I have booked for?

    We understand that plans may change and you may not be able to visit us on your booked day. If this is the case, please contact us as soon as you can to cancel your booking or move it to another slot. If people don’t turn up, it does prevent others who wish to see the show from attending. This last year has been challenging for the cultural sector and we ask for your support by letting us know if you can’t attend for any reason.

    To cancel and/or rebook your tickets please contact us via email at [email protected] or phone us on 0191 568 9700 .

  • Will I still be allowed to see the installation if I am late for my pre-booked slot?

    If you are over 5 minutes late for your allocated slot, we will be unable to guarantee entry to see the installation.

    We ask that visitors arrive at the gallery 5-10 minutes in advance of their allocated time where they will be able to wait outside of the gallery until they are able to enter. Seating will be available while you wait.

    We recommend you check your journey before you set out to avoid any unnecessary delays. There is plenty to see and do around National Glass Centre if you arrive earlier than your allotted time.

  • Can I book on the day of my visit?

    We recommend you pre-book in advance to guarantee that there is a time slot available on the day you wish to visit.

    If there are available tickets on the day of your visit, our Visitor Services team will be able to assist you in booking, however this may not be possible if all pre-bookable slots are taken.

  • Covid-19: What social distancing and Covid-secure measures are in place?

    Please be reassured that we will be following all social distancing and Covid-secure measures that are set out by the government.
    If the guidance changes before and/or during the exhibition, we will review the necessary restrictions and if needed, contact those who have booked to update them.

    Current safety measures in place can be found online – view our Keeping you safe webpage to find out more.

  • How do I get there and where can I park?

    For directions and parking information please visit our Plan Your Visit webpage.

    Visitor car parking is free until 31st August. From 1st September, car parking charges will be introduced in the visitor car park so please ensure you pre-pay for your space online, or pay on your app or with your card on the day.

  • Where do I need to go on the day of my visit?

    On the day, we ask you to head to the gallery 5-10 minutes before your allocated time, where your tickets will be checked and you will gain entry to the exhibition.

    Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art is located on the lower floor of National Glass Centre towards the back of the Glass Yard café. To access the gallery you will follow a one way system through the café.

    If you arrive early, you can take a look around the rest of the building. We ask that you don’t head to the gallery until, at the earliest, 10 minutes prior to your allocated slot.

  • Do I need to print my tickets off?

    You can either print your tickets at home before visiting or show your tickets on your mobile device.

  • Can I touch the sculptures?

    No, you will not be allowed to touch the sculptures.

  • Is the exhibition accessible?

    The space will be accessible to all and there will be seats available for those who wish to use them for the 10-minute slots.

    Moreover we have Blue Badge parking, accessible toilets and an Adult Changing Facility at National Glass Centre.

    You can find out about National Glass Centre and Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art’s accessibility and facilities online.

    If you have any other questions regarding accessibility, please get in touch with our Visitor Services team via email at [email protected] or phone on 0191 515 5555 option 4.

  • Can children visit the exhibition?

    Yes, children are allowed to visit the exhibition. Under 16’s should always be supervised by an adult throughout the whole building.

  • Do children count in the group size?

    Yes, the maximum group size is 6 people including children.

  • Can I book 2 slots to have longer to view the installation?

    We believe 1 slot of up to 10 minutes is the right amount of time needed to view the exhibition.

    If you would like to discuss this, please contact our Visitor Services team who will be able to help. You can email via [email protected] or phone 0191 515 5555 option 4.

  • Can I take photos or videos of the installation?

    Photography is permitted for personal use only. All photography for commercial use is prohibited unless pre-authorised by us. If you would like to enquire about using photography for commercial use please contact us at [email protected].

  • Is there any exhibition merchandise I can purchase?

    Once the exhibition is open, our shop will stock some related products including a book about Field for the British Isles. By purchasing from our shop you are helping to support National Glass Centre and Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art.

    Some products will also be available to purchase online at: shop-nationalglasscentre.com

  • What else can I do on the day of my visit?

    There are lots of other interesting and exciting things around the building you can do on the day of your visit including visiting National Glass Centre’s exhibitions, browsing our shop or enjoying a bite to eat at our café, The Glass Yard. There are also live glass demonstrations with commentary. Find out more about our FREE daily glass making demonstrations.

    As well as the installation itself, visitors can view a film and exhibition resources at the drum located in the main upper entrance to the building, and families can take part in our Field for the British Isles trail.

    There will also be a range of workshops and activities for families to enjoy across the summer. To find out more about what’s on visit:

  • I really enjoyed the exhibition – how can I support you?

    We hope visiting Field for the British Isles will be a memorable experience. As a registered charity, we rely on the generosity of our visitors and supporters to bring the very best glass and art to National Glass Centre for everyone to enjoy.

    Every penny you donate makes a huge difference to supporting our work. You can support us by making a donation whilst booking your ticket, on our website or during your visit to National Glass Centre. Don’t forget you. You can boost your donation with Gift Aid.

    Thank you!

Stay connected with Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art Instagram Twitter Facebook