Helios at Ickworth
See Helios, a new artwork of the sun by Luke Jerram at Ickworth!
- Next Event
- 8th May 9:15am - 8th May 4:00pm
- Following 3 Events
09/05/25 09:15
-09/05/25 16:00
10/05/25 09:15
-10/05/25 16:00
11/05/25 09:15
-11/05/25 16:00
About this event
See Helios, a new artwork of the sun by Luke Jerram. This seven-metre sculpture combines solar imagery, light and sound to highlight the sun's intricate details.
Ickworth was built as a home of great art and it was the Earl Bishop's vision to bring contemporary art to the estate for all to see. Join us as we continue his legacy.
Named after the ancient Greek god of the sun, Helios offers a detailed view of the star, including rare features like sunspots. The sculpture is scaled so that each centimetre represents 2,000 kilometres of the real sun's surface.
Along with its glowing light, Helios includes a soundscape featuring NASA recordings of the sun, by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson. Together, the light and sound create a unique and immersive experience, inviting us to explore the sun's hidden beauty and power up close.
Helios has been co-commissioned by National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London.
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About the Venue
A Georgian Italianate palace in an idyllic English landscape.
Ickworth's impressive Rotunda - a magnificent showcase commissioned by the 4th Earl of Bristol to house his priceless treasures collected on tours around Europe in the 18th-century - is an architectural marvel.
For 200 years, the eccentric, and sometimes infamous, Hervey family added to the treasures inside and out, also creating the earliest Italianate garden in England. The exquisite craftmanship of the finest Huguenot silversmiths is breathtaking, and you can follow the family's history through outstanding portraits by Gainsborough, Hogarth and Reynolds.
After walking in the tranquil parkland, experience 1930s domestic service in the restored servants' basement, sharing the real stories and memories of former staff who kept this country estate running.
Ickworth offers a delicious selection of food throughout the year. Whether you're coming just for a meal, or to make a whole day out our West Wing, Squash Court Cafe and Porter Lodge Cafe offer a mouth-watering choice of hot food, snacks and a great cup of coffee.
After a busy day enjoying our special place, make sure you find that special gift or memento of your visit. Browse our West Wing Gift Shop and Plant & Garden Shop, for seasonal and inspirational gifts.
Cycle Hub
Explore Ickworth Estate on two wheels! Our Cycle Hub is open daily throughout the school holidays for cycle hire, 10am to 4pm with last hire at 2pm. Hire starts from just £3 and you can hire for two hours or all day. Visit https://bit.ly/IckworthBikes for more details. Normal admission charges apply, free for National Trust members.
Dog Friendly
Dogs are welcome in the parkland, on woodland walks, the walled garden and at Porter’s Lodge café, which is the perfect place to start or finish your dog walk. There are tasty treats, plenty of hot and cold drinks, and of course water bowls with lots of shade for your furry friend. Please keep your dog on a lead at all times on the estate.
Only assistance dogs are allowed in the West Wing, house and Italianate garden.
