Helios

Helios

Tuesday 20 October – Saturday 31 October

A spectacular seven-metre model of the sun is set to light up Derby Cathedral this October marking the start of our centenary celebrations!

Internationally acclaimed artist Luke Jerram will bring his latest touring installation, Helios, to the city from October 20 to 31, giving visitors the chance to get up close to a breathtaking recreation of the sun.

The immersive artwork combines art, science and sound to reveal the extraordinary detail of our nearest star, featuring imagery created from NASA observations and photographs captured by astrophotographer Dr Stuart Green and a range of interactive activities linked to the installation will be available for Key Stage 1 and 2 schoolchildren, as well as visitors of all ages.

The Cathedral will remain open for worship throughout the exhibition, with services continuing as normal as often as possible.

To read the full press release please click here

Opening hours for public viewing

Tuesday 20 October: 12:00 – 13:00 and 15:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30)

Wednesday 21 October: 09:00 – 14:00 (last entry 13:30) and 15:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30)

Thursday 22 October: 14:00 – 21:00 (last entry 20:30)

Friday 23 October: 10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30) (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)

Saturday 24 October: 10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30) (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)

Sunday 25 October: 12:30 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30)

Monday 26 October: 09:00 – 13:00 (last entry 12:30) and 14:00 – 17:30 (last entry 17:00)

Tuesday 27 October: 09:00 – 13:00 (last entry 12:30) and 14:00 – 17:30 (last entry 17:00)

Wednesday 28 October: 09:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30) (Sinfonia Viva concert 7pm: Book your tickets here)

Thursday 29 October: 09:00 – 12:00 (last entry 11:30) and 14:00 – 21:00 (last entry 20:30)

Friday 30 October: 10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30) (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)

Saturday 31 October: 10:00 – 18:00 (last entry 17:30)

Programme of Events

Discover a variety of ways to engage with Helios, from family-friendly activities and inspiring talks to live music performances. With something for all ages and interests, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the exhibition.

Special Evening Viewings with Live Music

For a truly unforgettable experience, visit Helios after dark and see the artwork in a new light.

During the exhibition, Derby Cathedral will remain open late on Friday and Saturday evenings, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the warmth and glow of the sun long after sunset. These special evenings will also feature a licensed bar, relaxed seating areas, and live music, creating a unique and atmospheric setting to experience the installation.

Special evening viewings take place on the following night, prebooking advised:

Friday 23 October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm) Artist: Holly Rose

Saturday 24 October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm) Artist: Holly Rose

Friday 30 October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm)

Sponsored by:

Funded by:

Friends of Derby Cathedral         All Saints Trust