A sun replica made to scale will be on display at National Trust property, Dyffryn Gardens, from May 23, providing people a chance to “get close to” to the sun
18:16, 05 May 2025Updated 18:18, 05 May 2025
It will give viewers a chance to explore the Sun closely(Image: Ben Birchall/PA Wire)
A “breathtaking” rotating sculpture is making its way to a Welsh Edwardian gardens promising people a chance to “see the sun like never before”.
To be displayed at the Dyffryn Gardens, in the Vale of Glamorgan, this round sculpture is seven meters wide and was made by British artist Luke Jerram. It will be on display at the South Lawn of Dyffryn Gardens in half term, from May 23 to May 26, and May 29 to June 1.
Titled Helios, after the Greek God of Sun, the sculpture offers a detailed view of the star at the centre of our solar system.
People viewing the sculpture will be able to see the Sun’s rare features like sunspots, while getting a realistic estimation of the star as it is scaled in a way that each centimetre represents 2,000 kilometres of the Sun’s surface. The glowing representation of the Sun will be complimented by an immersive experience featuring NASA recordings of the star by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson.
The National Trust, who commissioned the structure and operates Dyffryn Gardens said the light and sound come together to “create a unique and immersive experience, inviting us to explore the sun’s hidden beauty and power up close.”
Liverpool ECHO, who reviewed the sculpture at its first ever exhibition have described it as a “breathtaking work of art that needs to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.” From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here
Luke Jerram, the artist behind the sculpture said: “We all know it’s dangerous to look directly at the sun, as it can damage our eyesight.
“Helios provides a safe way for us to get close to, and inspect, its detailed surface including sunspots, spicules and filaments.”
Luke Jerram, the artist behind Helios with his sculpture(Image: PA)When can I see Helios?
The sculpture will be on display at the South Lawn Dyffryn Gardens May 23 to May 26, and May 29 to June 1.
You will be able to see the sculpture from 10am to 6pm and then from 7pm to 10pm.
Where can I see the giant rotating sun?
People will be able to see Helios, at the Dyffryn Gardens at Duffryn Ln, St Nicholas, Wenvoe, CF5 6FZ.
Do I need to book to see Helios?
No, you do not need to book in advance to see the Helios sculpture.
Do I need tickets and how much will it cost?
The exhibition itself is free, however you will need to pay the normal admission for Dyffryn Gardens will apply. This is:
- For adults: £14.30 with gift aid, and £13.00 without
- Child (5-17) under 5s free: £7.20 with gift aid, £6.50 without
- Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children): £35.80 with gift aid, and £32.50 without
- An adult, up to 3 children: £21.50 with gift aid, and £19.50 without
- Group (Adult 18+): £12.35
Get a free National Trust day pass for your family day out this summer! Click here to find out how to enter.