We want everyone to be able to access and enjoy live performance, film, visual arts, workshops, and more at Lighthouse. We are committed to ensuring that everyone’s needs are met to enjoy the best possible experience.
We are happy to show anyone around who would like to see the venue during a quieter time to resolve any potential issues or concerns they may have in advance of their visit.
Booking Tickets
In order to book certain tickets online, you will need to complete a short registration process in order to make the tickets that you require available. Click here to tell us about any access requirements that we need to know. Carer/PA tickets will be automatically available to you upon registration.
When you have registered, you will be able to book a wheelchair space and/or a free ticket for a carer or personal assistant online. Follow the links below for details of how you can book your tickets.
We have put together a handy set of answers to frequently asked questions about our accessibility. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Ticket Office on 01202 280000 or email us at ticketoffice@lighthousepoole.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disabled parking
Disabled parking spaces are available in all Poole car parks. There are also designated setting down and collection bays immediately outside the front of the building.
Carer/PA support
If you are unable to access the performance without support from a carer or personal assistant, we offer a complimentary ticket for your support companion.
Facilities
We have accessible toilets on the ground and first floors. A radar key is required. Lighthouse is a member of the national RADAR (disabled toilets) scheme. If you require access but do not have a key, then please speak to a member of staff who will be able to help you. There are disabled toilets on all floors.
There is a manual-hydraulic slip lift available in the accessible toilet on the second floor foyer.
There is a gender-neutral / unisex toilet available on the first floor foyer near the Theatre.
Wheelchair Access
We have designated wheelchair spaces in the Theatre, Concert Hall and Sherling Studio. If you need any assistance in booking a space, our Ticket Office will be happy to help.
We have two visitor wheelchairs subject to availability. Please ask at Ticket Office.
Level access and lifts
There is level access to the foyers, bars, Café, toilets and performance spaces and all floors.
We have lift access to every floor. The lift is situated near the Sherling Studio.
Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome in all our performance spaces are welcome throughout the centre. On booking your tickets, please inform a member of staff and they can advise on the best seats to accommodate you. Dog bowls are available from Ticket Office.
Sound Enhancement Systems
We have sound enhancement systems that can be used, free of charge, in the Concert Hall, cinema, Sherling Studio and Theatre. The specialist equipment amplifies what is being said on the stage, via an infrared system which can be picked up in specific areas of the auditoria.
When booking your tickets, please let Ticket Office know if you plan to borrow a headset, as they can advise you on the best seats to receive a strong signal. Headsets and personal hearing loops can be collected from Ticket Office.
We welcome Typetalk calls when making your booking. Dial prefix 18001 followed by 01202 280000.
Dementia-Friendly performances
We hold relaxed performances and screening enhanced to suit the needs of people with dementia. Staff are on hand to assist if needed, and we screen films with the lights up a little and sound turned down a touch.
What is audio description?
Audio description is a live verbal commentary delivered during a performance, capturing the key visual elements such as actions and movements, gestures and facial expressions, sets, props and costumes. The description is relayed to the audience member through a lightweight headset which is supplied by Lighthouse.
What is captioning?
Captioning converts the spoken word into text, which is displayed on a caption unit situated on or next to the stage. As the words are spoken or sung the captioner sends the specially formatted script to the display unit.
Do you have space for prams and pushchairs?
These can be left in our buggy park next to the shop located on the ground floor.