Twilight Visits

You can bring your group to The Centre, after our normal closing time for an atmospheric Twilight Visit.  All that we ask is that there are at least 20 paying visitors and we will open just for you.

You have the choice of two options.

With three of the telescopes restored to working order, if you wish your Twilight Visit can concentrate on astronomy.  Tour the domes as the astronomers would have done and, with favourable weather conditions, you will actually view through an historic telescope.

We are happy to take bookings from February - mid December, but if your main interest is viewing through the telescopes then bookings are best between October - March when it is dark by late afternoon / early evening.

The following is a suggested programme, but we will tailor the visit to suit your own arrival and departure times (also according to the size of the group):

• If you arrive in daylight you will initially explore the outdoor exhibits, moving indoors as the light fades.
• Refreshments will be provided and options can be discussed with our Café Manager.
• The group will then be divided and led by members of science centre staff for an atmospheric tour of the domes.  If weather conditions are favourable you will view through an historic telescope.
• Groups can also book to incorporate any of the activity badges into the programme.

Cost
£9.25 per person (includes catering) minimum charge for 20.
Adults are admitted free of charge to the normal ratios, catering £4 if required.

Visit The Centre for your regular meeting times and explore the hands-on exhibits for a fun science evening with the extra option of booking activities / worksheets to work towards the Activity Badges.

We are happy to take bookings from February - mid December.

The following is a suggested programme, but we will tailor the visit to suit your own arrival and departure times (and also according to the size of the group):

• If you arrive in daylight you will initially explore the outdoor exhibits (weather permitting), moving indoors as the light fades.
• You will then explore the indoor hands-on exhibits and, if you have booked badgework, groups will participate in specific activities and complete worksheets etc.

Cost
£4.50 per child, minimum charge for 20. 
plus £1 for badgework (optional).
Adults are admitted free of charge to the normal ratios.
Large groups are welcome, with additional adults and non- scouting children accompanying the group admitted at the reduced rate of just £4.50 pp.

Twilight Visits require particular regard for Health and Safety, especially if the entire visit is after sunset. Risk Assessments are available for all activities.

Everyone should wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.  The temperature can drop rapidly at night and there is no heating in the telescope domes.
You may like to bring a torch if you have one; preferably red light for astronomy, but not essential.

The visit will proceed regardless of weather conditions and viewing through a telescope is not guaranteed.  The telescopes cannot see through cloud, nor can they be set up quickly if there is a brief gap in the clouds.