Magical Engagement for London Couple at Illuminature
With stunning lights, fascinating wildlife and illuminated sculptures, the renowned London Wetland Centre in Barnes, southwest London, has transformed into a magical experience, ILLUMINATURE, which has created one of the most romantic spots in London this winter, with one couple choosing the spot for a surprise marriage proposal.
Andy Simpson proposed to Courtney Larkin inside the illuminated blue tunnel, which was a favourite spot for the couple’s four year old son, Jack, when they attended the event last year, with him calling it the ‘magic light tunnel’. Courtney was also expecting her second child when they visited last year.
Courtney, who had no idea that Andy was planning to propose, was ecstatic when Andy produced a beautiful diamond ring – and he had even hired a photographer to capture the moment!
Courtney said: “Last year, we had such a great time at the event and, being able to see so many gorgeous lights in one place, was brilliant. Our son Jack’s favourite part of the trail is the tunnel, so it already had a special place in our hearts, and this is why Andy chose the location to propose. Jack was thrilled to see the addition of a green illuminated tunnel this year and loved jumping across the lily pads. He didn’t have any idea what was happening, but it meant a lot to me that both our children were there. We want to make it a family tradition to visit ILLUMINATURE every year, as it’s such a special place for us. All the different food trucks were delicious and the illuminated hoops hanging down from the trees were my favourite this year.”
On Fridays to Sundays from now until 8th January 2023 between 4.30pm and 9.00pm, ILLUMINATURE offers visitors an immersive and unique seasonal experience under the stars.
Hot chocolate in hand, visitors can follow the twinkling lights and celebrate nature in an immersive light trail of glowing larger-than-life sculptures and stunning installations. People can enjoy glimpses of real animal magic through night vision goggles, spotting several species of birds and beautiful plant life. They can also visit the resident family of otters tucked up in bed, while also learning about the phases of the moon and how they impact our environment.
Hosted by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) and Lumagica, this captivating experience is a real seasonal treat for all ages to spend an hour or so reconnecting with nature beneath the moonlight.
Tickets for the enchanting experience are now on sale, priced at £18.50 for adults, £14.50 for children (under 4s free), with family tickets at £60.00. They can be purchased at http://www.wwt.org.uk/illuminature.
The London Wetland Centre has plenty of car parking and is served by local bus services.
