Helios

Event:Helios

National Museum Cardiff

Information

21 July–31 August 2026
Cost Free
Suitability All
Helios

Photo (c) National Trust Images / Anthony Chappell-Ross

Meet Helios. An amazing seven‑metre‑wide artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram that brings the Sun closer than ever before, in a way that’s safe and spectacular.

Using real solar imagery from NASA and scientists, this glowing sculpture lets you look closely at the Sun’s surface and spot fascinating details like sunspots and solar flares - including the part of the Sun that caused the Northern Lights to be seen from the UK in 2024. At this scale, every centimetre represents 2,000 kilometres of the Sun, making it a brilliant way to explore space together.

With gently changing light and an immersive soundscape, Helios is a calm, inspiring space where families can pause, look up and wonder at the star that gives us light, warmth and life. Inspired by the ancient Greek Sun god, the artwork also connects science, storytelling and imagination.

Free to visit and perfect for curious minds, Helios is a summer experience not to miss.

Book your free general admission ticket

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Plan your visit

 Admission

Free Entry

Amgueddfa Cymru belongs to everyone, and admission to the Museum is free thanks to funding from the Welsh Government. 

Booking a free day ticket in advance will ensure you receive key information and updates before your visit, helping you to make the most of your experience. 

Admission is free, however a charge may apply for some exhibitions, events and activities.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. For safety reasons, we reserve the right to conduct bag searches when entering the Museum​.

 Opening Hours

Until Sunday 3 May 2026

Monday Closed
Tuesday 10 am–5 pm
Wednesday 10 am–5 pm
Thursday 10 am–5 pm
Friday 10 am–5 pm
Saturday 10 am–5 pm
Sunday 10 am–5 pm
galleries close at 4:45pm

From Monday 4 May 2026

Monday 10 am–5 pm
Tuesday 10 am–5 pm
Wednesday 10 am–5 pm
Thursday 10 am–5 pm
Friday 10 am–5 pm
Saturday 10 am–5 pm
Sunday 10 am–5 pm

From Monday 11 May 2026

Monday Closed
Tuesday 10 am–5 pm
Wednesday 10 am–5 pm
Thursday 10 am–5 pm
Friday 10 am–5 pm
Saturday 10 am–5 pm
Sunday 10 am–5 pm
galleries close at 4:45pm

 Accessibility

If you prefer to visit when we’re less crowded, there are usually fewer people on our site from 3pm each day.

Access Guide

 Parking

A visitor car park is situated behind the Museum, off Museum Avenue. Parking costs £6.50 and can be paid at the parking machines in the car park. 

Parking is free to blue badge holders. Disabled parking is also available at the front of the Museum, on Gorsedd Gardens Road.

Visiting by public transport, bike or foot?

You can plan your journey using the Traveline Cymru website or by calling their helpline on 0800 464 0000.

 Eat, Drink, Shopping

  • The Museum café in the Main Hall is open every day 10am-4pm offering a range of drinks and snacks.

 Location

 Multifaith Room

Reserve time in National Museum Cardiff's multifaith room.

This is a clean and quiet area for reflection, contemplation, and worship.

Please be aware that this space may be shared with other members of the public and must be kept clean.

Privacy screens are available if required.

 Site map

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