Professor Brian Cox Emergence Tour at Bournemouth BIC

Physicist Professor Brian Cox brings his Brian Cox Emergence Tour to the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) on 7 and 8 November 2026. This live show explores fundamental questions about the universe, including its origins, structure, and humanity's place within it, using accessible language and vivid imagery. This page covers what the event involves, how to plan your visit, and what else to see and do nearby.

What the Brian Cox Emergence Tour show involves

Professor Brian Cox’s Brian Cox Emergence Tour is a live science event designed to engage a broad audience with current ideas in cosmology and physics. The show is not a formal academic lecture but a carefully crafted presentation that combines Cox’s clear explanations with striking visual effects and multimedia. Topics include the Big Bang, the forces that shape the cosmos, and the emergence of complexity in the universe.

The show typically lasts around two hours, including a break, though exact timings and the presence of an interval are confirmed closer to the event date by the Bournemouth International Centre. Cox’s style is conversational and enthusiastic, aiming to make scientific concepts understandable regardless of prior knowledge. The tour often includes references to recent discoveries and ongoing research, making it relevant to both newcomers and those with an interest in science.

Audience members can expect a blend of storytelling, scientific insight, and immersive visuals projected on large screens. The event is suitable for adults and older teenagers with an interest in science, but it is not tailored for young children. Tickets are available through the BIC’s official channels, where details on seating arrangements, accessibility, and any COVID-19 related measures are also published.

Getting to the Bournemouth International Centre for the Brian Cox Emergence Tour

The Bournemouth International Centre is located on Exeter Road, close to the seafront and Bournemouth town centre. It is approximately a 10-minute walk from Bournemouth railway station, which has regular services connecting to London Waterloo (about two hours), Southampton, and other regional hubs.

For those arriving by car, the BIC is near several public car parks including the nearby Lansdowne and Westover Road car parks, both within a five-minute walk. Parking charges vary but typically range from £2 to £6 for an evening stay. Visitors are advised to check the BCP Council website for the latest parking information and any event-related restrictions.

Local bus services run frequently through Bournemouth town centre, with stops near the BIC. The seafront location means visitors can also combine their journey with a pleasant walk along Bournemouth’s beaches or the Lower Gardens. For visitors coming from further afield, Bournemouth Airport is about 7 miles west of the town centre, with taxi and shuttle options available.

Where to watch and what to expect at the Brian Cox Emergence Tour venue

The Bournemouth International Centre is a multi-purpose venue with a main auditorium seating around 4,000 people. The Brian Cox Emergence Tour takes place in the Windsor Hall, the BIC’s largest space, offering tiered seating and good sightlines to the stage and screens.

The venue provides accessible seating, hearing loops, and facilities for guests with mobility needs. Concessions and refreshments are available before the show and during the interval. The BIC also has cloakroom facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Audience members are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show starts to allow time for security checks and seating. Latecomers may be asked to wait until a suitable break to take their seats. Photography and recording during the performance are not permitted.

A speaker stands on stage in front of a vibrant cosmic backdrop filled with galaxies and stars, addressing the audience. — Professor Brian Cox captivates the audience with a stunning cosmic display during the Emergence World Tour.

Combining the Brian Cox Emergence Tour with things to do nearby

Bournemouth town centre and seafront offer a range of options for dining, entertainment, and sightseeing before or after the Brian Cox Emergence Tour show. The Lower Gardens, a five-minute walk from the BIC, provide landscaped green space with floral displays, fountains, and sculptures.

For dining, the nearby Lansdowne area has a variety of restaurants and bars, including international cuisine, casual eateries, and traditional pubs. The seafront itself features several cafes and seafood restaurants with views over the bay.

Visitors interested in cultural attractions can explore the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, located a 15-minute walk east along the coast from the BIC. For families or those interested in marine life, the Oceanarium is about 10 minutes on foot from the venue.

The town centre also has shops, cinemas, and theatres, including the Bournemouth Pavilion, which hosts concerts, comedy, and theatre performances. Planning ahead for transport and meal times can help make the most of an evening out centred on the Brian Cox Emergence Tour.

Tickets, prices and booking information for the Brian Cox Emergence Tour

Tickets for the Brian Cox Emergence Tour at the Bournemouth International Centre are sold through the venue’s official website and box office. Prices vary depending on seat location, with standard tickets typically ranging from £30 to £60. Concessions for students, seniors, and groups may be available.

Booking in advance is recommended due to the event’s popularity. The BIC website provides the most current information on ticket availability, start times, and any special offers. It also details the venue’s policies on refunds, exchanges, and accessibility requirements.

Group bookings and corporate packages may be offered, with options to include hospitality or pre-show talks. For the latest details, consult the Bournemouth International Centre’s official listing.

Who the Brian Cox Emergence Tour is suitable for

The Brian Cox Emergence Tour is aimed at adults and older teenagers with an interest in science, astronomy, and the wider questions of existence. The show assumes no specialist background but rewards curiosity and an open mind.

It is not designed as a children’s event, and younger children may find the scientific content and length challenging. Those with hearing or mobility impairments will find the BIC well equipped to accommodate their needs, but it is advisable to contact the venue in advance for specific arrangements.

The show appeals to those who enjoy live talks, science communication, and immersive visual experiences. It also suits visitors who appreciate combining cultural events with a visit to Bournemouth’s vibrant town centre and seafront.

For further details on other live events in Bournemouth, see the comprehensive What’s On section. To explore more about Bournemouth’s attractions and places to visit, the Things to Do guide is a useful resource. For background on Professor Brian Cox and his work, see his Wikipedia page. For official information on parking and transport near the BIC, visit the BCP Council website. To learn more about visiting Bournemouth and its beaches, see Visit Dorset.

Dates & times

7–8 November 2026

Brian Cox Emergence Tour at Bournemouth International Centre in November 2026 good to know

What topics are covered in Professor Brian Cox's Emergence World Tour show?

The Emergence World Tour explores fundamental questions about the universe such as its origins, structure, and humanity's place within it. The show covers topics including the Big Bang, the forces shaping the cosmos, and the emergence of complexity in the universe. It combines clear explanations with vivid imagery and multimedia to make these scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience.

How long is the Emergence World Tour show and what is the format?

The show typically lasts around two hours and includes a break, though exact timings and details about the interval are confirmed closer to the event date. It is a live science event featuring a conversational and enthusiastic presentation style by Professor Brian Cox, blending storytelling, scientific insight, and immersive visuals projected on large screens.

Where is the Bournemouth International Centre located and how can I get there?

The Bournemouth International Centre is located on Exeter Road, close to the seafront and town centre. It is about a 10-minute walk from Bournemouth railway station, which connects to London Waterloo and other regional hubs. Visitors arriving by car can use nearby public car parks such as Lansdowne and Westover Road, both within a five-minute walk, with parking charges typically ranging from £2 to £6 for an evening stay. Local buses also stop near the venue, and Bournemouth Airport is approximately 7 miles away with taxi and shuttle options available.

What facilities and accessibility features does the Bournemouth International Centre offer for this event?

The Emergence World Tour takes place in the Windsor Hall, the BIC’s largest auditorium seating around 4,000 people with tiered seating and good sightlines. The venue provides accessible seating, hearing loops, and facilities for guests with mobility needs. Concessions and refreshments are available before the show and during the interval, along with cloakroom facilities and free Wi-Fi. Attendees are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes early for security and seating arrangements.

Are photography and recording allowed during the Emergence World Tour show?

Photography and recording during the performance are not permitted. This helps maintain the immersive experience and respects the presentation and visual effects created for the event.

What are the ticket prices and how can I book for the Emergence World Tour?

Tickets are sold through the Bournemouth International Centre’s official website and box office. Prices vary depending on seat location, typically ranging from £30 to £60. Concessions for students, seniors, and groups may be available. Booking in advance is recommended due to the event’s popularity, and the BIC website provides up-to-date information on availability, start times, and any special offers.

Who is the Emergence World Tour suitable for?

The show is aimed at adults and older teenagers interested in science, astronomy, and big questions about existence. It assumes no specialist background but rewards curiosity and an open mind. It is not designed for young children, who may find the scientific content and length challenging. The venue is well equipped for those with hearing or mobility impairments, though contacting the BIC in advance for specific arrangements is advisable.

What can I do nearby before or after attending the Emergence World Tour?

Bournemouth town centre and seafront offer many dining, entertainment, and sightseeing options within walking distance. The Lower Gardens provide landscaped green space with floral displays and fountains. The Lansdowne area nearby has a variety of restaurants and bars, while the seafront features cafes and seafood restaurants with bay views. Cultural attractions like the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum and the Oceanarium are also close by, along with cinemas and theatres including the Bournemouth Pavilion.