helios

 Basildon Park from 15 to 18 August 2025 and 22 to 25 August 2025.

Opening times are 12pm-10pm.

Helios is a new artwork of the sun by Luke Jerram.

The sun has inspired people throughout history as a symbol of life, light and renewal.

By blending art with science, Helios invites us to reflect on the forces that shape our planet, and recognise our role in serving and protecting the natural world.

This seven-metre sculpture combines solar imagery, light and sound to highlight the sun’s intricate details.

The sculpture provides a safe opportunity for the public to get up close to the Sun, and inspect its extraordinarily detailed surface, including sunspots, spicules and filaments.

 Helios will also act as a venue, enabling hosts to create their own programme of Sun inspired events and activities to take place beneath the artwork, including orchestral and choral performances; space science lectures by astronauts; environmental and wellbeing discussions with scientists and activists; yoga; poetry readings; dance and theatre performances.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Children are welcome.

Start your visit at Visitor Reception, who will welcome you, and point you in the direction of the art installation.

Basildon Park has accessible footpaths around the pleasure grounds, and a buggy to offer lifts from Visitor Reception and back down to the carpark.