Wondrous Woods partners with Scottish Autism to produce bespoke events
Wondrous Woods is staging a specially tailored event on 8th November to open up the extravaganza to autistic visitors or visitors with sensory processing challenges.
Article Source: Wondrous Woods
Last Updated: 5 October 2021 10:21
Lighting trail adapted for autistic visitors or visitors with sensory issues.
Scotland’s most anticipated lighting trail Wondrous Woods is staging a specially tailored event to open up the extravaganza to autistic visitors or visitors with sensory processing challenges.
The company behind the spectacular illuminations, 21CC, has worked with Scottish Autism to devise a Relaxed Evening – supported by The Walter Scott Giving Group - of more subdued effects, reduced noise and more static lighting. The aim is to make the trail, in the grounds of Hopetoun House near Edinburgh, as accessible and inclusive as possible.
Last year the event, which was Scotland’s first large-scale COVID-safe experience for the public, attracted over 35,000 visitors and this year is expected to be even more popular. But the sights, sounds and sensations of the show, which lights up the stately home and a magical woodland journey through its grounds, can prove challenging for autistic people or people with sensory processing sensitivities.
Determined to set the standard of inclusion for major events, 21CC engaged Scottish Autism as consultants to advise on best practice for the event on Monday, November 8. The modified event is the result and will also include staggered arrival time slots, reduced capacity to minimise crowds and lower sound levels.
The team at 21CC have also worked closely with Scottish Autism to produce pre-event information which is available to potential ticket buyers through the Wondrous Woods website, and which will allow customers to ascertain what event would be best suited for their needs – the Relaxed Performance, or the standard performance, ultimately giving them the ability to make the right choice for them in advance.
Geoff Crow, Director of 21CC Group says: “When we came up with the concept for Wondrous Woods we wanted to ensure that as many adults and children as possible could enjoy the experience.
“Within the team we have some first-hand experience with autism so we understand that the multi-sensory nature of the lighting trail may cause sensory overload in autistic people or those with other sensory processing disorders and result in them feeling excluded.
“Working with Scottish Autism to produce something specially crafted for this unique group of visitors has been so satisfying.”
Charlene Tait, Deputy CEO, Scottish Autism said: “As an organisation committed to enabling autistic people to lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives, we are delighted to work alongside the Wonderous Woods organisers to ensure the attraction is as inclusive as possible for everyone.
“For many autistic people, the sensory aspect of an event like this can prove to be overwhelming, however with some minor adjustments and preparation in place, autistic people can enjoy this attraction with their families.”
Designed and produced by the team at 21CC Group, this year’s trail runs from October 21 to November 14 and showcases a host of new and exciting festival themed-features including Kaleidoscope, Rubik’s Cube, Loo Lane, Pixel Campsite and Flaming Brilliant.
It sets off from Hopetoun House and follows a 2km woodland walk meandering through secret paths, amongst ancient woodlands and clearings and past the atmospheric old summerhouse before returning via the Lime Avenue to the glorious sight of the House beautifully lit up. En route, along with creative lighting, there will also be several sound and special effects installations, which will have their volumes adjusted and lights lowered and their movements reduced.
Dennis Wyles, Client Investment Manager at Walter Scott Giving Group, says: “We are really pleased to be supporting this Relaxed Evening after last year’s successful event. This evening increases the access for more families to enjoy this trail.”
21CC Group is a Scottish based events group based outside Edinburgh, established in 1999. They produce events around the country for corporate groups, festivals, local authorities, and private clients.
For further information and to purchase tickets, visit www.wondrouswoods.com/relaxed-evening and www.wondrouswoods.com
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Rare female cheetah arrives at Edinburgh Zoo
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has welcomed four-year-old female cheetah Domino to Edinburgh Zoo from Zoo de Cerza, France.
READ MORE
Santa clocks in early: Scotland shift heroes among 30,000 invited to claim free festive meal
Greene King pubs is raising the spirits of Scotland's hardest workers this festive season, hosting 'The Big Christmas Shift' across 700 pubs nationwide, giving away 30,000 meals on Monday 1st December
READ MORE
Festive days out to make the most of the season
From wreath-making workshops through to New Year’s Eve street parties, here's a rounded up some of the best events to help make the most of the season with loved ones in a fun and creative way.
READ MORE
November and December at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
From Christmas to Artist in Residence, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events taking place in this festive season!
READ MORE
Edinburgh Small Businesses shine as part of small business roadshow
Independent businesses in Edinburgh celebrated as part of Small Business Saturday’s Tour highlighting the nation’s favourite businesses
READ MORE
SAY Award winner announced as Kai Reesu
Kai Reesu’s ‘KOMPROMAT vol.i’ was tonight announced as winner of The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award, as the country’s national music prize Ceremony took place in Dundee’s Caird Hall.
READ MORE
Beyond Monet and Beyond Van Gogh open in Edinburgh this month
Two immersive experiences which bring the work of a pair of iconic artists to life in mesmerising and moving fashion are set to open in Edinburgh this month.
READ MORE
The many worlds of Stephen King return to Vue this autumn
As the The Long Walk wraps up in cinemas, fans of Stephen King can look forward to seven classic re-releases heading to the big screen this autumn.
READ MORE
First ever Letters Live cinema events comes to the Big Screen in Edinburgh this week
A very special cinema event is coming to Edinburgh this week, comprising a preview of a brand-new film, a world-renowned literary event and an appearance from a BAFTA-winning actor.
READ MORE
Flight Club Edinburgh launches limited edition Winter Menu and Festive Brunch
Flight Club Edinburgh kicks off Christmas party season with the unveiling of its specially curated limited-edition menu and festive celebration-worthy bottomless brunch.
READ MORE
Deer Park unwraps a festive calendar of fun for December
Deer Park Golf & Country Club is set to bring a touch of Christmas magic this December, with a month-long programme of festive events for families, friends and colleagues to enjoy.
READ MORE
Vue Ocean Terminal set to welcome luxurious new seating option
Film fans in Edinburgh will soon be able to enjoy the latest releases in the ultimate comfort with the arrival of Vue’s signature Ultra Lux seat at its Ocean Terminal venue.
READ MORE
Decade of teaching Scotland to swim capped In Edinburgh
A PROGRAMME that has created a legacy of confident swimmers across Scotland has reached a major milestone, celebrating ten years of transforming lives through the power of swimming.
READ MORE
Call for homeowners in Edinburgh and Lothians to check eligibility for Energy Saving Home Improvements
With energy bills remaining high and winter approaching, thousands of families in Edinburgh and the Lothians could be missing out on free home energy improvements worth £10,000 or more.
READ MORE
Public vote opens for Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 as scene flourishes
A stellar lineup of nominees has been announced for the Scottish Jazz Awards 2025, showcasing the exceptional talent flourishing across Scotland's vibrant jazz scene.
READ MORE
RZSS continues call for national ban on public sale of fireworks
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is renewing its call for a national ban on the public sale of fireworks, one year after the tragic death of baby red panda Roxie at Edinburgh Zoo.
READ MORE
Edinburgh to welcome globally renowned DJs to perform at The Johnnie Walker Experience
FREE Tickets for ‘Keep Walking Live with NTS Radio, presented by The Johnnie Walker Experience’ are available now on Resident Advisor.
READ MORE
Magical Winter Village to light up Fort Kinnaird for the first time this Christmas
This Christmas, Fort Kinnaird will be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food, artisan gifts, fairground rides and spectacular circus shows for all to enjoy.
READ MORE
First Footin Trail returns to Kick Start
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay organisers today announce the first events at this year’s First Footin’ programme on New Year’s Day.
READ MORE
Edinburgh International Book Festival makes 60 new flagship events available worldwide
Edinburgh International Book Festival is releasing 60 more events from its August 2025 programme for global audiences this week on a Donate What You Can basis.
READ MORE
Heroes call on Scottish rugby fans to vote for the greatest Murrayfield rugby moment
SCOTTISH rugby fans have been called upon to cast their vote for the greatest ever Murrayfield rugby moment as part of celebrations marking the national stadium’s centenary.
READ MORE
Make a difference to East Lothian during Trustees Week
Volunteer Centre East Lothian urges people to lend their support to local charities by becoming a trustee.
READ MORE
The Christmas tradition of the year is back...
Scotland's biggest Christmas drive-in returns: 11 days of Elf, Home Alone & more at Loch Lomond Shores!
READ MORE
Customers queue for 18 hours at Popeyes Fort Kinnaird
Today, Popeyes® UK, home of the famous Louisiana Chicken, opened its Fort Kinnaird restaurant in Newcraighall, with over 100 people in the queue for launch day.
READ MORE
Midlothian primary school set to celebrate centenary with a week of music and memories
Exactly 100 years since Newtongrange Primary School first opened its doors, teachers and pupils are set to celebrate its centenary in style.
READ MORE
National Roadshow to Shine a Spotlight on Edinburgh Small Businesses
Edinburgh’s small businesses are set to take centre stage this week as the Small Business Saturday nationwide roadshow rolls into town on Wednesday, 5th November.
READ MORE
St Andrews Day ticket offer for Castle of Light
Edinburgh Castle ignites excitement for Castle of Light: Fire and Ice with special St Andrew’s Day ticket offer.
READ MORE
Shuttle Bus Route Launched at Lost Shore Surf Resort
Lost Shore Surf Resort is teaming up with Scottish sustainable travel pioneer Ember to launch a new all-electric shuttle bus service from Edinburgh City Centre to the resort.
READ MORE
Michelin success for top new restaurant of the year in Edinburgh
Barry Fish, one of Edinburgh’s most celebrated new restaurants of 2025, has earned its place in the prestigious Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland, just 8 months after its launch.
READ MORE
Deer Park Golf and Country Club Tees Up Championship Quality Golf All Year Round
Deer Park is offering golfers the chance to enjoy superb playing conditions 365 days a year, ensuring the course remains in peak form, whatever the weather.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links