New Charges Information
We have put together a list of questions that we get asked about a lot. Hopefully they will provide you with the information you need.
If you have a different query however, or would like to offer feedback, you are welcome to put that in writing through this feedback form.
Why are you charging for the exhibitions now?
Introducing charges for our temporary exhibitions is one of several measures Ipswich Borough Council has brought in to help meet the significant budget savings required.
These savings are necessary due to a combination of factors — including rising costs, increased demand for council services, global economic pressures such as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, new regulatory demands, and a substantial reduction in government funding since 2010.
They explored other income options, but they wouldn’t have provided a reliable or sufficient source of funding to meet the scale of the challenge.
Why are you closed on Thursdays and Fridays?
Reducing opening hours is another measure that supports the Council’s need to make major savings. The Visitor Services team accounts for over half of the museum’s operating budget, so this was an area we had to look at carefully.
We reviewed visitor numbers and listened to feedback to help us decide which days would have the least impact. While this decision wasn’t taken lightly, it allows us to maintain quality service on our remaining open days.
Who do we, the visitors, speak to if we are not happy with the exhibition charges?
We thank you for any constructive feedback you have for us. If you would like to put your feedback into writing, please fill in the IBC Compliments and Complaints form HERE.
What is the age range for a child’s ticket?
For ticketing purposes, a child is any visitor aged 4 to 16 years old. Children over 16 years of age can qualify for a Reduced Rate if in full time education.
Do you charge for children under 4 years old?
No, children under 4 years old can enter for free with a full paying adult or reduced rate adult.
Who is entitled to Reduced Rate entry?
Reduced Rate is the term that has replaced Concession. The following are qualifiers for a Reduced Rate ticket:
+ Seniors in receipt of pension benefits qualify for a reduced rate.
+ Students with a valid student ID or proof of course qualify for a reduced rate.
+ People in receipt of Universal Credit, income-based Job Seekers allowance, income support, and Employment support allowances qualify for a reduced rate.
+ People claiming personal independence payments and disability allowance (Mobility & Care component) qualify for a reduced rate.
In addition, tickets bought online will attract a 10% discount. This will be non-refundable.
Groups of 12+ people will attract a 20% discount and must be booked in advance.
Will anyone be allowed free admission?
School groups will be able to visit the exhibitions for free as part of visits to the mansion for booked workshops. Schools visiting on free self-guided visits will need to book admission tickets at the group booking rate.
Carers attending with a Reduced Rate adult will qualify for free entry.
How long is a ticket valid for?
At the moment, a ticket is valid for that day’s visit. We’re working on creating a yearly pass.
Is the side door available for any visitors?
Side door access is available to wheelchair users and anyone in their party. They must still pay for or redeem their booking at the Wolsey Art Gallery welcome desk.
Will there be access to the Wolsey Art Gallery exhibitions as part of other Christchurch Mansion events?
No, unless the participants have also bought or qualified for a free ticket.
Will the prices be displayed elsewhere?
Yes, there will be prices displayed outside of the Wolsey Art Gallery, and other areas.
When will the tickets be available online?
Soon, once confirmed, tickets will be available to purchase online via the Events page.
