FAQs
1. General
What is the BigChurchDayOut?
The BigChurchDayOut is a weekend celebration event that reaches out to all ages and denominations, and both those inside and outside the church community. The inaugural event at Wiston, West Sussex in May 2009 attracted 15,000 people. In 2010, and with an additional site just that year in the Midlands, over 25,000 came together over 3 days to worship and have fun together. The event has now become firmly established on the beautiful Wiston Estate at the foot of the South Downs in West Sussex, where some 20,000 or more gather for 2 days each year to worship, pray and have lots of fun just being together.
There is something for everyone, from many of the best Christian music artists in the world today, through to a classical orchestra and cream teas on the lawn of Wiston House. Many people choose to come and camp for the whole weekend, whilst other church groups just love the day trip out to the countryside for 1 of the 2 days.
Click here for further information.
When is the event?
The BigChurchDayOut is on Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd June 2012 at Wiston House. The programme runs from 12.30-10pm.
When can I arrive?
The car parks will open at 10am each day, and gates at 10.30am – you can arrive any time from 10am onwards.
How do I get there?
Directions to Wiston House are on the Travel page. The venue postcode is BN44 3DZ.
PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU CANNOT ACCESS BCDO VIA MOUSE LANE, STEYNING.
By Train, the nearest station is Shoreham-by-Sea, you can then catch a taxi, available at the taxi rank at the station, to the Wiston Estate. Catch a Shuttle Bus to the event from Shoreham-by-Sea railway station.
By Bus, the 2 / 2A bus serves the Ham Road bus stop close to Shoreham-by-Sea train station, bringing you to the Steyning Clock Tower bus stop. These buses run hourly on a Sunday timetable and the journey will take approx 21 minutes. It’s then a 25 minute walk from Steyning to the Wiston Estate. For more info on the bus timetable and routes please see www.buses.co.uk
The Big Shuttle Buses are back! You loved the Big Shuttle Buses that connected Shoreham-by-Sea train station to our home at Wiston. So, the Buses will be back in 2012… We’re working on the schedule at the moment. For your guidance, you can expect to be able to get from Shoreham-by-Sea train station to BigChurchDayOut by Big Shuttle Bus between about 10am and 3pm on the Saturday and Sunday of the event. Return buses will operate on Saturday and Sunday between about 7pm and 10pm. On Monday, campers will be able to catch a bus between 10am and midday. Full schedule information will follow…
Airport - The nearest airport to Wiston House is London Gatwick. The journey from London Gatwick to Wiston House would be approx. 45 minutes by car.
For all travel information, click here.
2. Tickets
Click here for all ticket info and ordering. Ticket FAQ’s are here.
3. Accommodation & Camping
Can I camp? Where can I stay locally?
Wiston’s Big Campsite was a huge hit with those of you who stayed over in 2011. We’ve got exciting new plans for 2012, including:
- We’ll be adding extra toilets, as well as some hand wash stations throughout the site, plus more lighting
- Caterers will be on site to offer you hearty breakfasts and you’ll also be able to buy a comforting evening snack and hot drink, too
- Motorhomes and caravans will be able to pitch much closer to friends in tents
- Exclusive Big Camp events
Remember, if you buy a weekend ticket, you can receive a 50% discount on your camping ticket. See Ticket page for details.
Click here to go to the Camping info page, or for the Accommodation page click here.
What will happen at the end of the event?
At the end of the event there will be lots of people leaving at the same time. Our Traffic Management team will work as quickly as possible to get you away safely. When planning your journey home, please allow extra time to clear the site.
Are you free to come and go during the event?
Yes you are but you will not be re-admitted without your ticket wristband.
Where can I get a map of the BigChurchDayOut site?
A map of the site is on the back of the Programme which can be purchased on the day. There will also be a site map available here nearer the event.
What’s on during the day?
Click here to find out what’s in store for 2012. A more detailed programme with timings and info will be available for purchase on the day.
What’s on for Children and Young People?
The BigChurchDayOut is a family event, and that means everyone is welcome. We’ve worked hard over the past year to make sure there is an endless list of fun activities for the younger generation to get their teeth stuck in to. Click here for the Children’s page.
Can I bring a Gazebo?
Gazebos will be allowed on the outer extremities of the main arena, provided that they do not obscure the view for others, and are a sufficient distance behind the famous BigChurchDayOut flags!
Are animals allowed in?
We often get asked if you can bring your pets to BCDO, both in the event and on the campsite, and sadly we have to say no. The only animals allowed are guide dogs, and Eunice, our friendly BigChurchDayOut mascot.
However, the great news for 2012 is that we have made friends with the Old Clayton Kennels and Cattery, just a 5 minute drive from site. They are well equipped to deal with all your pets dietary and medical needs, whether you are only coming down for the day or will be camping for the weekend, and are looking forward to hearing from you.
www.oldclaytonkennelsandcattery.com
Will there be seats?
There will be seating at the Oasis Tea Tent behind Wiston House. All other areas, including the Main Stage area, are unseated, so please feel free to bring your fold-up camping chairs and picnic blankets with you. (In the Main Stage area seats will only be allowed towards the back).
Can I bring glass onto the site?
No, glass is not allowed.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
Alcohol will not be sold on site. Over 18s are welcome to bring some alcohol for their own consumption. The BigChurchDayOut supports responsible drinking. Professional staff will be on hand all day to support this objective.
What sort of food will be for sale?
You are welcome to bring your own picnic. We’ll also have a comprehensive range of delicious food for sale across the site.
Weather – what happens if it rains?
Believe it or not, England has been known to experience wet weather in June! The best bet is to pack your wellies and rain coats just in case our lovely fields turn a little bit muddy.
Toilet Facilities
There will be plenty of portaloo facilities provided, including disability access toilets. We also provide baby change facilities.
Will there be medical support on site for emergencies?
Yes there will be a Medical and First Aid Services provided for the duration of the event.
Safety
The safety of all our visitors is our top priority. Our Security specialists will be managing site access and on-site activities to ensure that everybody has a great day out.
Do we recycle all the rubbish?
Yes we will recycle any rubbish that is left at the event. However, please take all your litter home with you and recycle it wherever possible.
Where do I go if I have lost property?
For reporting or handing in lost property visit the clearly marked information tent on site. Lost property will be logged and held securely until claimed.
Can I volunteer to work at the BigChurchDayOut?
Click here to find out what opportunities there are and how you can apply for them.