The Observatory Science Centre

Wartling Road, Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN

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From £8.95
The Observatory Science Centre

About


The Observatory Science Centre is one of the country's leading interactive science centres …

This unique attraction opened in 1995 with the vision to establish a place where people could explore, discover and learn for themselves. Sir Patrick Moore jubilantly declared that the Observatory had been ‘Saved for Science’.

It has gone from strength to strength celebrating spectacular science and discovery amongst the iconic domes and telescopes in the former home of The Royal Greenwich Observatory. The restoration of the Grade II* Listed building and historic telescopes has been described as a ‘labour of love unfolding in the Sussex countryside’ … 

Visitors of all ages and abilities explore over 100 interactive exhibits (indoors and out), join telescope tours, science shows and seasonal activities. Regular events include an annual Astronomy Festival in September, workshops for children and courses for adults (Star Search, Telescope Clinic, Night Sky Photography etc.).

Evening visitors experience the awe and wonder of the night sky (weather permitting!) viewing through historic telescopes assisted by knowledgeable volunteers.

Incredibly you can be married beneath an historic telescope: a truly memorable celebration venue.


The Observatory Science Centre is part of Science Projects Ltd, a non-profit company with charitable status (No: 298542) dedicated to the promotion of science for everyone, specialising in the design and construction of interactive exhibits both in the UK and overseas.

Book Tickets

Guide Prices

Ticket TypeTicket Tariff
Adult 18+£10.95
Child (4-17 years)£8.95 per ticket
Family of 4£35.00
Family of 5£42.00 per ticket
Senior£9.95

Tickets price excludes Gift Aid.
Booking advisable.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating:

4.5 of 5 stars
    • Excellent
      386
    • Very Good
      111
    • Average
      19
    • Poor
      12
    • Terrible
      7

    Recent Reviews:

    • Culture47074771233
      London, United Kingdom
      Trip Type:
      Family
      We took our kids here years ago and this week
      4 of 5 stars
      Friday, 15th September 2023
      Returned with 5 adults and still had a great time. Lots to do, see and read, nice cafe and views. Good value and interesting for all. Read full review
    • P F
      Uckfield, United Kingdom
      A perfect evening with the stars and universe
      5 of 5 stars
      Sunday, 8th October 2023
      Thoroughly enjoyed a 'Stargazing evening' at the Science centre. We learnt so much, saw so many things including Jupiter, Saturn and Neptune through the telescopes (lucky with the weather) . The... Read full review
    • lesleyjones65
      Gloucester, United Kingdom
      Disappointed
      1 of 5 stars
      Tuesday, 31st October 2023
      We were disappointed that the telescopes were not in use on this star gazing evening despite there being gaps on the clouds and a very bright and beautiful full moon and Jupiter visible. No... Read full review

    Map & Directions

    Road Directions

    Signposted from A272 Road at Herstmonceux two miles east of village on Boreham Street to Pevensey road. Look for sign to Herstmonceux Castle on A271 or A27.

    Opening Times

    Open (13 Feb 2023 - 31 Dec 2023)
    DayTimes
    Monday - TuesdayClosed
    Wednesday10:00 - 16:00
    Thursday - FridayClosed
    Saturday - Sunday10:00 - 16:00

    * For opening times please visit the website.

    Video

    • The Observatory Science Centre

    Events

    Tuesday, 13th February 2024 - Tuesday, 13th February 2024

    Poster for Moon Watch at the Observatory Science CentreMOON WATCHLearn about the magnificent moon through fun interactive activities at The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux.
    more info

    Wednesday, 14th February 2024 - Wednesday, 14th February 2024

    Poster for Explore the Moon at The Observatory Science Centre.EXPLORE THE MOONA twilight workshop for children aged 9-11 years. Explore the moon at The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux.
    more info

    Thursday, 29th February 2024 - Thursday, 21st March 2024

    Monday, 14th October 2024 - Monday, 4th November 2024

    orange poster with silhouette of observatory for star search course at herstmonceuxSTAR SEARCH COURSESJoin a Star Search course at The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux.
    more info

    Saturday, 20th April 2024 - Sunday, 21st April 2024

    LYRIDS SHOOTING STARSShooting stars event at The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux.
    more info

    Saturday, 10th August 2024 - Sunday, 11th August 2024

    Poster for Perseids Shooting Stars.Perseids Shooting StarsBe an astronomer for the evening with the Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux.
    more info

    Awards

    • Regional and Miscellaneous -WTTC Safe Travels WTTC Safe Travels 2021

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