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

Tuesday 20th October: 10:00 – 17:00

Wednesday 21st October: 10:00 – 17:00

Thursday 22nd October: 10:00 – 17:00

Friday 23rd October: 10:00 – 17:00 (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)

Saturday 24th October: 10:00 – 17:00 (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)

Sunday 25th October: 12:00 – 16:30

Monday 26th October: 09:00 – 17:00

Tuesday 27th October: 09:00 – 17:00

Wednesday 28th October: 09:00 – 17:00 (Sinfonia Viva concert 7pm: Book your tickets here)

Thursday 29th October: 09:00 – 16:00

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

Saturday 31st October: 09:00 – 20:00

Special Evening Viewings

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.

*artists for live music to be confirmed

Special evening viewings will run on:

Friday 23rd October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm)

Saturday 24th October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm)

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

Book your tickets here

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.

Full programme of events coming soon

*The installation has been made possible through support from our many partners (see below). This is a fundraising event to raise income to support the Cathedral’s vision of being a place for all. There is no charge to enter Derby Cathedral; visitors are encouraged to make a donation of £5 to enjoy Helios.

If schools would like to book visits and/or educational sessions at Derby Cathedral during the Helios installation they should contact office@derbycathedral.org or 01332 341201.

Sponsored by:

Funded by:

Friends of Derby Cathedral         All Saints Trust