About our armillary sphere sundials
An armillary sphere is a sundial built from a set of brass or bronze rings that represent the celestial equator and the meridian. The gnomon arrow runs along the polar axis. As the sun moves, the arrow's shadow falls on the marked hour ring and tells the time. Greek astronomers were using armillaries by the 3rd century BC. The garden version is a working timepiece and a sculptural focal piece.
Choosing a position
An armillary needs an open spot in full sun for as much of the day as possible. A south-facing lawn or border works well. Avoid placing it under trees or against a wall that will throw shade across the sphere in the afternoon. Most customers mount the sphere on a stone plinth 600-900mm tall, which lifts the rings to eye level.
Installation steps
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Position | Pick a sunny, open spot | No tree shade or building shadow at noon |
| 2. Base | Mount on a level plinth or pedestal | Check level with a spirit level |
| 3. Alignment | Point the gnomon arrow at true north | Use the noon-shadow method below |
Setting up your armillary
Start with a stable base. A good plinth supports the weight of the sphere and stays put through winter. Some armillaries in the range come with an integrated base; others need a separate plinth or pedestal sized to match.
Find true north using the noon-shadow method. On a sunny day at local noon, push a vertical pole into the ground (use a spirit level to keep it straight) and mark the shadow it casts. That shadow points to true north. Align the armillary's gnomon along that line.
Seasonal care
Check the level once a month, especially after heavy frost or storms. Even a small tilt affects the time the sphere shows. Wipe the rings with a soft brush to clear leaves and debris, and check the fixings stay tight. Browse our full garden ornaments range for matching pieces.
Which sundial style to buy
One row per style, with the piece customers chose most in the year to June 2026.
| Style | Example to start with | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brass dial on pedestal | Aged Brass Sundial on Stone Pedestal ⭐ Matt's Pick | Working timepiece, traditional borders | £345 |
| Armillary sphere | Medium Armillary on Stone Pedestal | Sculptural centrepiece for lawns | £475 |
| Carved stone column | Georgian Sundial in Stone | Cottage and period gardens | £289 |
Matt's note, June 2026
Sundial sales spread evenly this year. Five different models sold two each in the twelve months to June 2026, split between aged brass pedestal dials and the Georgian and Edwardian stone columns. Forty sundials are in stock, £219 to £629. My advice does not change: buy the pedestal version unless you already own a plinth. A dial at ankle height is ornament only. At 800mm it gets read every time you pass.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I put my armillary sphere?
Pick the sunniest part of the garden, ideally with sky in view from sunrise to sunset. South-facing borders, open lawns and patio corners all work. Avoid trees, north walls and anywhere overshadowed at midday. The sphere needs to be reachable so you can read the time and check the level once a month.
How often should I check the alignment?
Once a month is enough, with an extra check after severe weather. At local noon the gnomon should cast no shadow on the sphere. If it does, gently realign so it points to true north again. Regular checks catch any settling early before the time shown drifts noticeably.
What planting works around an armillary?
Low-growing herbs and alpines work well at the base. Thyme, chamomile and creeping rosemary release scent when brushed and stay short enough not to shade the sphere. Avoid anything that will grow tall enough to throw afternoon shadow over the rings.
Do armillary sundials tell accurate time?
Yes, within about 15 minutes once aligned to true north. Sundials show solar time, so in British Summer Time add one hour. The reading also drifts slightly through the seasons as the sun's path shifts, which is normal for every sundial.
How much does an armillary sphere sundial cost?
Our sundials run from £219 to £629. Brass dials on stone pedestals start at £219, carved stone columns from £239, and large armillaries on pedestals reach £629.