We are thrilled that the River of Light Trail will once again take place across the city here in Liverpool. Please take a moment to read the following FAQ’s, to make your visit to the trail as enjoyable possible.
Can’t find what you are looking for? Then please email [email protected] and we’ll endeavour to help where we can.
What is the River of Light Trail?
It’s a 17-night outdoor art gallery which will illuminate the waterfront. It showcases the work of local, national and international artists which residents can enjoy and experience in a covid-safe way.
River of Light normally means there are fireworks - will there be fireworks?
There are no fireworks as part of the River of Light Trail.
How long is the River of Light Trail?
The River of Light Trail is a 2km loop with no designated start or finish. We do recommend people walk the loop anti-clockwise.
Is it free to see the light installations on the trail? Do I need a ticket?
Yes, all installations along the River of Light Trail are free of charge and you do not need to book a ticket.
Are there any age restrictions for any of the light installations?
No, it is designed to be family friendly and all-inclusive but we do advise that small children are accompanied by an adult at all times.
Why is this happening now and who is it for?
River of Light is part of Culture Liverpool’s annual programme delivered across Liverpool. Culture Liverpool is the Liverpool City Council team responsible for the city’s arts and cultural programme.
The Culture Liverpool programme, including the River of Light Trail, is part of Liverpool City Council’s pledge to utilise culture for our ongoing recovery and regeneration.
Full health and safety assessments have been undertaken on this outdoor light trail and it is in line with current government guidelines relating to outdoor gatherings and activities.
Is the River of Light Trail Covid-19 safe?
Culture Liverpool has been working very closely with Public Health Liverpool and members of the Safety Advisory Group, to ensure it is as covid-safe as possible following rigorous team assessments. However, we do rely on people to play their part in making this safe and to follow the rules and any visitor must take responsibility for their own actions.
It has been designed with safety and distancing in mind – the 2km trail and distance between each artwork ensures social distancing can be observed.
Visitors will be encouraged to wear face coverings, signage will give advice on how to stay safe and staff will be on hand.
A limited number of sanitising stations will be available, but people are advised to bring their own anti-bacterial hand gel.
The information boards have surface safe anti-microbial laminates applied to graphics.
Organisers are advising people to get tested before their trail visit, and details of the nearest no-symptoms test centre can be found here. Anyone experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 should not visit the no-symptoms test centre or the trail.
The trail is outside - should I wear a mask?
The requirement to wear face coverings in law has been lifted. The government expects and recommends that people wear face coverings indoor crowded areas such as public transport.
What time do the installations light up and what time do they switch off?
The installations switch on at 5pm and the lights are switched off at 9pm each evening.
When can I visit the trail?
You can visit the trail during the dates specified and the day-time if you prefer. The light installations will be switched on and off between 5pm and 9pm each day.
Where can I find out about the different light commissions?
Further information on the different light installations is available at www.visitliverpool.com/riveroflight
Is there information available at the installations about the artwork? Is it accessible?
At each of the installations there will be a large interpretation board with details about the installation. A QR code can also be scanned and will take you through to the designated page on the River of Light Trail website where further details can be found. We will also have signage displaying a route map. This has been designed to discourage people from gathering in one place.
Whilst the boards are accessible to all, we would kindly remind visitors to wait until the board is available before taking in the information and not to gather in groups outside of their bubble.
The information boards have surface safe anti-microbial laminates applied to the graphics.
What is the best way for me to travel to the River of Light Trail?
Liverpool car parks and car parking spaces are open. Public transport is available and currently running at 70% capacity pre-covid. Citybike and Voi scooters are greener options to use in Liverpool.
The River of Light Trail runs for 14 days, from 22 October to 7 November giving plenty of time to view.
Will there be any road restrictions closures due to the installations?
Visitors to the city can find details of any major road works here.
Will there be any accessible viewing options for the installations?
All of the light installations can be viewed from the ground and therefore there are no additional viewing platforms for any of the installations.
Can I bring my dog?
The trail and installations are outside in areas accessible by the public. Dogs are welcome to walk the trail.
I have additional questions / concerns - who do I speak to?
If you have any additional questions that are not answered here, please feel free to email us at [email protected] and we will do our best to help you.
