Telescope Clinic for Adults
This course is a mix of classroom based teaching in one of the domes and practical hands-on teaching outdoors so you can learn how to use your telescope. Members of local Astronomy Societies will guide you through setting up your telescope and getting the best out of it. Weather permitting they will also start you on your way to viewing the night sky. Spring and Autumn dates available.
Stargazing Evenings
Come and enjoy the fabulous atmosphere that surrounds the Observatory at night and, weather permitting look through some of the largest telescopes in the country at some extraordinary night sky objects. Don't worry if it is cloudy we have a cloudy night contingency.
Adults Exclusive Stargazing & Planetarium Experience
March 22 & September 20 2025: Reserved exclusively for adults only, these Stargazing Evenings include an opportunity to experience a fantastic planetarium presentation. Weather permitting you will also be able to look through some of the largest telescopes in the country and translate what you see in the planetarium onto the night sky.
Big Telescopes for Small Astronomers
Grab your torch, gather family & friends and join us for an evening of discovery and space exploration. These events are suitable for all ages – with a family friendly atmosphere and plenty of fun to be had! Our team will show you the stars through our historic telescopes (weather permitting) and provide an immersive planetarium experience. Event tickets include a warm drink and a biscuit for children, and a hot drink for the grown ups.
Stargazing Evenings 2026
Stargazing Evenings at the Observatory are the best way to experience the natural wonders of the night sky. It may be the moon or the planets or it may be deeper sky objects; looking through a telescope is awe inspiring! Our astronomy team will guide your through the stars using our historic telescopes – or if the weather is poor, we’ll provide a unique planetarium experience, talks on the night sky and the opportunity to chat to astronomy experts. This event makes the perfect gift experience for someone special.