We know you may have a few questions as you get ready for the event, so we’ve gathered the most common ones here to make planning easier.
From tickets and photos to refreshments and how to get here, you’ll find quick answers below.
If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to our team by emailing events@chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk.
Photo (c) Dave Parry, Press Association
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What is Mars:War and Peace?
Measuring six metres in diameter, the artwork features120dpi detailed NASA imagery* of the Martian surface. At an approximate scale of 1:1 million, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 10 kilometres of the surface of Mars.
Mars was named by the ancient Romans for their god of war because its reddish colour was reminiscent of blood. Accompanying the Mars sculpture is a newly created sound composition by BAFTA and Ivor Novello award winning composer Dan Jones.
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Do I need to book to visit?
All events are ticketed and entry is by timed-entry slot to enable us to limit the number of people in the cathedral so that you have the best possible experience when visiting.
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What if I miss my time-slot?
If you miss your time-slot, please come along to the Cathedral as close as possible to your time and we will admit you as soon as we have space.
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What if I need to cancel?
If you are unable to attend, you can rearrange for another date within the ticket booking platform.
Details on how to complete this are on the booking confirmation email.
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Do you have parking?
The Cathedral does not have parking but there is a park and ride service and there are a number of car parks less than ten minutes away.
Details can be found on the city council website.
The Cathedral is also a ten-minute walk from the railway station, on many bus routes and we strongly urge you to consider using public transport where possible.
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Is the Cathedral accessible?
Yes the Cathedral is accessible to wheelchair users.
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Can I bring a large group?
Yes of course – if you are wishing to bring a group of 10 people or more, please visit our Mars group page for further information.
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Are there toilets?
There are a limited number of toilets in the Cathedral and plenty in the city centre. There are also baby changing facilities.
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Will you be serving refreshments?
Yes, we will have a Mars Café in the Cathedral Chapter House serving hot and cold drinks and snacks.
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Can I come in and light a candle without reserving a ticket?
Yes the chapel will be open throughout Mars visit for you to come in pray and light a candle if you wish.
Please speak to a steward upon arrival.
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Are regular services taking place in the Cathedral?
Yes we are looking forward to holding our regular services during Mars and you will not need to reserve a ticket to attend.
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Can I take photos?
Yes we'd love you to take photos and share them with us using the hashtag #MarsChelmsCathedral.
We ask that you do not bring tripods and professional photography and recording is not permitted.
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Can I bring dogs?
Assistance dogs, as well as well-behaved dogs on lead are welcome in the Cathedral.
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Does everyone need a ticket?
Everyone over the age of two needs a ticket.
Please remember to bring your tickets with you. -
Do you have a shop?
Yes, we have a shop which will be open throughout the event. A selection of souvenirs inspired by Mars will be available to purchase.
Related pages
Mars: War & Peace is a touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram which follows on from his other astronomical…
We're looking forward to welcoming you to view Mars:War & Peace in the Cathedral.
