Measuring seven meters in diameter, Helios offers a view of the Sun like never before
A spectacular new art installation is set to light up Dyffryn Gardens this May, as acclaimed British artist Luke Jerram brings his latest creation, Helios, to the Vale of Glamorgan.
Standing seven metres tall, Helios is a glowing spherical sculpture inspired by the sun. The artwork features detailed solar imagery, including sunspots and filaments, and is accompanied by a soundscape incorporating NASA recordings of the sun, offering visitors an immersive experience that blends art and science.
Visitors can experience Helios on the South Lawn of Dyffryn Gardens during two periods: from Friday 23 to Monday 26 May, and from Thursday 29 May to Sunday 1 June. To accommodate more visitors, the gardens will extend their opening hours on select dates, staying open until 10pm on 23, 24, 30, and 31 May. These evening sessions provide a unique opportunity to witness the sculpture illuminated against the night sky.
For those seeking a quieter experience, a relaxed session is scheduled for 9–10am on Thursday 29 May, catering to individuals with additional sensory needs.National Trust
Helios is part of a National Trust initiative to make art accessible to a wider audience, touring various locations across the UK throughout 2025. The installation at Dyffryn Gardens is co-commissioned by the National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College, and University College London.
Admission to Helios is included with entry to Dyffryn Gardens, and no advance booking is required. For more information and to plan your visit, please see the National Trust’s official page on Helios at Dyffryn Gardens. National Trust+2National Trust+2cardiff-astronomical-society.co.uk+2
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore the sun’s beauty up close in one of Wales’s most enchanting settings.
