The Observatory Science Centre
Latest Reviews
This is really interesting particularly for children 7 to 18 not at all Hickey with a lot of information and a lot of hand on experiments with children love
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went on bank holiday Monday and were amazed at how quiet it was, we arrived at 11:30 am and I would say there were less than 80 cars in the car park.
Parking is free & it cost us £22.75 entrance fee, that was for 2 adults and 1 child, a bargain we thought.
There's plenty of interactive activities to try both inside & out, the outdoor activities were our favourite. Our 4 year old was mesmerised by the moving stone on water and the big whispering dishes!
On the hour they have different talks/shows you can go on, which are included on the entrance free, my husband attended one in a telescope dome, which he said was very interesting, unfortunately I couldn't drag my son away from the water activities outside so i had to miss it. As a family we went to a show about sound which was very enjoyable, we especially enjoyed playing twinkle twinkle little star with tubes at the end of the show.
There's a lovely pond in the middle with big koi carp in, it was relaxing to sit and watch them swimming about.
The cafe was small and very reasonably priced, we only had coffees and a snack, but it didn't break the bank unlike some tourist spots.
We'd packed a picnic and found there were plenty of picnic tables dotted about.
I think this venue is an absolute gem, plenty to keep you entertained no matter what age you are. We spent 4 an half hours there.
The gift shop was again extremely good value.
It was worth the 90 minute drive to get there! We loved it. I have nothing negative to say about it.
Parking is free & it cost us £22.75 entrance fee, that was for 2 adults and 1 child, a bargain we thought.
There's plenty of interactive activities to try both inside & out, the outdoor activities were our favourite. Our 4 year old was mesmerised by the moving stone on water and the big whispering dishes!
On the hour they have different talks/shows you can go on, which are included on the entrance free, my husband attended one in a telescope dome, which he said was very interesting, unfortunately I couldn't drag my son away from the water activities outside so i had to miss it. As a family we went to a show about sound which was very enjoyable, we especially enjoyed playing twinkle twinkle little star with tubes at the end of the show.
There's a lovely pond in the middle with big koi carp in, it was relaxing to sit and watch them swimming about.
The cafe was small and very reasonably priced, we only had coffees and a snack, but it didn't break the bank unlike some tourist spots.
We'd packed a picnic and found there were plenty of picnic tables dotted about.
I think this venue is an absolute gem, plenty to keep you entertained no matter what age you are. We spent 4 an half hours there.
The gift shop was again extremely good value.
It was worth the 90 minute drive to get there! We loved it. I have nothing negative to say about it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My children were a little young to do all of the activities, 3&7 but we had a really good time!
Lots to see & do!
Cafe nice, gift shop very sweet & entry fees reasonable
Lots to see & do!
Cafe nice, gift shop very sweet & entry fees reasonable
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We really enjoyed our visit here, there is so much to see, learn and play with. We didn't have children with us but were pleased to see the excitement of the children there. There areplenty of large strong scientific installations for them to play with.
There is a tour of the observatories by a knowledgeable guide who opened one of the telescope roofs to demonstrate their use.
There is a well stocked gift shop with lots of science based gifts/ toys and a small cafe.
There is a tour of the observatories by a knowledgeable guide who opened one of the telescope roofs to demonstrate their use.
There is a well stocked gift shop with lots of science based gifts/ toys and a small cafe.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My reason for writing this review is that I have before now passed the site feeling a bit snooty about it - not quite believing that a science site in rural Sussex would amount to much.
I apologise now - I should gladly go again!
You can mix a visit to the fascinating and beautiful Castle and Gardens but this Science Museum is wonderful on its own. The exhibits are interactive and challenging. Not all about optics. Plenty about sound, energy, mass, engineering/mechanics, astrophysics, etc. There is the novelty of wandering between the five observatory buildings and being gripped by very large interactive pieces. There are programmes of speakers from time to time - worth checking before traveling in case there is someone/topic of interest. There were many families there when we visited and all ages were full of energy and inquisitiveness. Adults also enjoyed pressing buttons, pulling levers, turning wheels, and getting wet (watching the creation of clouds). If plasma orbs excite, then you can buy cut-down versions for the home - the shop is small but has a number of things to attract.
Hint: if the schience museum is what you want to visit, then don't go through the attended gate but turn right to the dedicated car park on the hill to the right. Pay for entrance at the shop.
We bought tickets for the Garden (excluding the castle) and science museum. I mention this to make the point that you are able to 'mix and match'. The gardens/grounds are extensive and have some magnificent trees. Access to the castle is limited because it is a fully functioning overseas arm of Queen's University, Canada! Lucky postgrads.
I hope this apology is good enough! Please don't make the same mistake that I did.
I apologise now - I should gladly go again!
You can mix a visit to the fascinating and beautiful Castle and Gardens but this Science Museum is wonderful on its own. The exhibits are interactive and challenging. Not all about optics. Plenty about sound, energy, mass, engineering/mechanics, astrophysics, etc. There is the novelty of wandering between the five observatory buildings and being gripped by very large interactive pieces. There are programmes of speakers from time to time - worth checking before traveling in case there is someone/topic of interest. There were many families there when we visited and all ages were full of energy and inquisitiveness. Adults also enjoyed pressing buttons, pulling levers, turning wheels, and getting wet (watching the creation of clouds). If plasma orbs excite, then you can buy cut-down versions for the home - the shop is small but has a number of things to attract.
Hint: if the schience museum is what you want to visit, then don't go through the attended gate but turn right to the dedicated car park on the hill to the right. Pay for entrance at the shop.
We bought tickets for the Garden (excluding the castle) and science museum. I mention this to make the point that you are able to 'mix and match'. The gardens/grounds are extensive and have some magnificent trees. Access to the castle is limited because it is a fully functioning overseas arm of Queen's University, Canada! Lucky postgrads.
I hope this apology is good enough! Please don't make the same mistake that I did.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A lovely Sunday out. Took my two daughters (10 & 8) with the wife on Sunday. The kids absolutely loved all the out door and hands on experiments. Don't think they realised they where learning at the same time as they had so much time.
In addition the tour is informative for both adults and kids and the site is beautiful in spring.
Would definitely recommend for a great day out, we did 5 hours and could have been there longer without the kids getting bored.
In addition the tour is informative for both adults and kids and the site is beautiful in spring.
Would definitely recommend for a great day out, we did 5 hours and could have been there longer without the kids getting bored.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was a great surprise from my husband , got to see planets, moons and star groups never seen before . Brilliant staff who where very informative and helpful. Cafe to supply hot drinks and snacks , and the astronomy club was more than willing to pass on tips and share their telescopes. Well worth a visit and it was a privilege to actually view through these telescopes.
Great for all ages too !
Great for all ages too !
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had been planning to go "star gazing for some time, never got round to it. We went a couple of months back, luckily I read the details which said wrap up warmly, because obviously the domes are open for the telescope to poke up. It was a frosty night and VERY cold, and of course, you are standing around. Earlyier in the evening it had been cloudy, you do need to check the weather forecast before setting off, especially if you are travelling some distance. The cloud cleared up we were able to see Venus very clearly. The chaps operating the telescopes were interesting and informative, nice and light hearted, not stuffy and "sciencey" at all. Was worth a fiver, we went to the coffee shop for a hot drink because we were so cold. There is various science exibits to see and interact with.It was very busy and popular, lots of children of different ages. Unfortunately this review site only starts in May this year, so I cannot put that we went earlier. Also family group, only says young children or teens, our 20 something daughter came with us, and went along again last month with her boyfriend saw saturn very clearly, and had another very enjoyable evening.Throughout the year, the have various childrens sessions, and evenings like Curry and comets, speaks for itself, and cheese and wine "do"s but you could pay for this (not cheap) and the weather not be condusive to seeing planets, as you have to book in advance.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a fantastic find!
Hidden away and not that well known it seems, even to people in Sussex.
Manages to fill that 'Goldilocks Zone' of entertaining the kids where fun meets educational.
Dozens of interactive exhibits that explain scientific principles in the best possible way, by encouraging participants to try them out themselves.
Entry tickets are good value considering there is several hours of entertainment here.
Hidden away and not that well known it seems, even to people in Sussex.
Manages to fill that 'Goldilocks Zone' of entertaining the kids where fun meets educational.
Dozens of interactive exhibits that explain scientific principles in the best possible way, by encouraging participants to try them out themselves.
Entry tickets are good value considering there is several hours of entertainment here.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Excellent hands on exhibits for children. Loved hearing about the history of the site and thought Jarvis the guide was great clearly loves his subject. The observatory opening was a highlight for me!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I agree with many of the previous critical remarks remarks about being a bit dated and some of the exhibits not working. We went without our 4 year old grandson who I'm sure would have enjoyed it.
The lady giving the science lecture in the marquee behind the main buildings was great and I'm sure more like her would boost childrens' interest in science.
The cafe was very good value and the young lady behind the counter handled the busy lunch rush very well. No attempt here to rip off the customer.
There are plenty of picnic areas both outdoor and under canvas for families to self cater.
Overall, not bad value and the kid's love it.
The lady giving the science lecture in the marquee behind the main buildings was great and I'm sure more like her would boost childrens' interest in science.
The cafe was very good value and the young lady behind the counter handled the busy lunch rush very well. No attempt here to rip off the customer.
There are plenty of picnic areas both outdoor and under canvas for families to self cater.
Overall, not bad value and the kid's love it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had a great afternoon even though it was Good Friday it was open until 6pm. We listened to the talk about the telescope and I now know about the Thompson Twins. We and our teenagers gained a lot from the visit and enjoyed the activities. It was a fun and educational visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Had a fantastic visit today (Easter Sunday)
Visited with an 11 and 8 year old - plus grandparents (in 70's). Something for everyone
Was a little concerned by previous reviews saying not much there/ bit run down ?! Yes the buildings may look a little dated but the exhibits / experiments inside were FAB
I agree with a previous poster - very similar to London science museum but in My honest opinion better as you can actually get to get your hands on everything - and far less busy
Outdoor area is amazing so a dry day is prob best
Telescope talk was great. Very informative yet not too difficult the kids couldn't understand what they were saying
I thought it was fantastic value for money at £25 for a family of 4 ... we were there 4 hours- but you Could def have stayed longer- I think on a warmer day we would have stayed in the outside discovery park much longer - When I consider I pay £20 to take my 2 kids to a local trampoline park for 1 hour - I think it was £25 very well spent
All staff friendly , helpful and clearly passionate about the center and what they do there
All in all. Brilliant
Visited with an 11 and 8 year old - plus grandparents (in 70's). Something for everyone
Was a little concerned by previous reviews saying not much there/ bit run down ?! Yes the buildings may look a little dated but the exhibits / experiments inside were FAB
I agree with a previous poster - very similar to London science museum but in My honest opinion better as you can actually get to get your hands on everything - and far less busy
Outdoor area is amazing so a dry day is prob best
Telescope talk was great. Very informative yet not too difficult the kids couldn't understand what they were saying
I thought it was fantastic value for money at £25 for a family of 4 ... we were there 4 hours- but you Could def have stayed longer- I think on a warmer day we would have stayed in the outside discovery park much longer - When I consider I pay £20 to take my 2 kids to a local trampoline park for 1 hour - I think it was £25 very well spent
All staff friendly , helpful and clearly passionate about the center and what they do there
All in all. Brilliant
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited this fantastic attraction today with medium sized expectations. Thought it'd be an interesting visit, to see the observatories. But was not expecting so much family fun.
This place has more cool, hands-on activities and practical diy demonstrations of physics in action, than the London science museum.
I went with 9 yr old and 14 yr old and we all had a blast. Recommend for all age groups, young, old and all in between.
There weren't any queues. Everything was in relatively small area, so not a lot of walking. All accessible with ramps. Good food in cafe. Friendly staff. Informative tours. Got to see HUGE telescopes and see how the roof on 1 of 6 (!) observatories.
Thought we'd have time to do the Herstmonceux Castle also, but would have needed to start asap in the morning and stay all day to manage that as well.
The Observaties and activities were so much fun, our heads virtually exploded!!!!
Highly recommended for all.
This place has more cool, hands-on activities and practical diy demonstrations of physics in action, than the London science museum.
I went with 9 yr old and 14 yr old and we all had a blast. Recommend for all age groups, young, old and all in between.
There weren't any queues. Everything was in relatively small area, so not a lot of walking. All accessible with ramps. Good food in cafe. Friendly staff. Informative tours. Got to see HUGE telescopes and see how the roof on 1 of 6 (!) observatories.
Thought we'd have time to do the Herstmonceux Castle also, but would have needed to start asap in the morning and stay all day to manage that as well.
The Observaties and activities were so much fun, our heads virtually exploded!!!!
Highly recommended for all.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Really good, so many things to do. The water activities in the garden kept my 3 year old daughter entertained for an hour alone! Well definitely be coming back again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Its that time of year again, the School Holidays and what to do to save your sanity.
Take them to the Science Centre at Herstmonceux, Its Brilliant. There are so many things to do, to build and to try to make all laid out around the old observatory and its telescopes. We spent 5 hours there and did not have to repeat anything or wait ages for others to move on for our turn. The talk in two of the telescope domes was very informative without being highbrow so great for kids to understand. A great day out and a brilliant time was had by all
Take them to the Science Centre at Herstmonceux, Its Brilliant. There are so many things to do, to build and to try to make all laid out around the old observatory and its telescopes. We spent 5 hours there and did not have to repeat anything or wait ages for others to move on for our turn. The talk in two of the telescope domes was very informative without being highbrow so great for kids to understand. A great day out and a brilliant time was had by all
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The observatory offers a place to learn whilst making it fun for everyone. There are experiments for all to enjoy and outdoor play with more fun oversized experiments to be found. There is a talk/demonstration about the telescopes which is worth taking the time to do.
The observatory has a nice cafe but also offers outdoor picnic areas if you have brought your own picnic with you.
Staff are very pleasant and helpful. Recommend to all.
The observatory has a nice cafe but also offers outdoor picnic areas if you have brought your own picnic with you.
Staff are very pleasant and helpful. Recommend to all.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Really enjoyed the Observatory Science Centre. I took my two young boys during the Easter holidays, they're 7 and 6; they loved the indoor and outdoor science 'exhibits'. Lots of hands on stuff which was both fun and educational. The space show with experiments was an extra 30 minute show, included in the price, which was really good...all about the ISS, the ESA and Tim Peake's recent mission. They also did the 2.5 hour workshop about the moon which was a break for me and they clearly had a fab time. Reasonably priced cafe too. Overall, well worth a visit and do the workshops....if I'd been aware a day earlier I'd have also booked them in for the astronaut workshop....they'd have loved it! Really good attraction!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Great place to take the kids as well as going as a couple to find out more about the history of astronomy in the UK.
Very knowledgeable & friendly staff.
Lots of 'hands on' things to keep everyone amused & entertained.
Plus lots to do outside as well and if cold, then wrap up well - but it's worth it!
Very knowledgeable & friendly staff.
Lots of 'hands on' things to keep everyone amused & entertained.
Plus lots to do outside as well and if cold, then wrap up well - but it's worth it!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I love to come back to The Observatory. They not only bring out the big kid in you but they also host a number of different events throughout the year so there is alway so much to see.
We got the chance to have a tour of one of the telescopes and the guide was brilliant and very knowledgable; including everyone in the discussion.
This is well worth a visit if your looking for a day out learning about different areas of science. I would very much recommend bringing your children as this is a great way for them to learn - very hands on and interactive.
Well worth a visit, thank you.
We got the chance to have a tour of one of the telescopes and the guide was brilliant and very knowledgable; including everyone in the discussion.
This is well worth a visit if your looking for a day out learning about different areas of science. I would very much recommend bringing your children as this is a great way for them to learn - very hands on and interactive.
Well worth a visit, thank you.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We 3 'seniors' visited as two had a scientific background, and one(me) fancied somewhere different on a grey drizzly day...what a treat was in store for us. The historic site is full of hands-on scientific....I'm not sure whether to call them games or experiments! Whatever their name, the many, many exhibits gave us hours of fun, interest and delight. Sometimes we were howling with mirth, sometimes astounded by the facts or information provided. The lively nature of the set-up meant joining with the antics of others. Clearly a number 1 destination for families, this is also a great place for all ages. The historical nature of the observatory is not ignored either: telescopes and displays inform visitors of this once vitally important site and it's place in the development of astronomy. What a gem!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went as a couple with no children. Although for us it was a short visit the young ones could play for hours on the hands on exhibits. Some interesting articles and very impressive telescopes. Great architecture and plenty of space for a picnic on a summers day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went today with 11, 12 and 13 year olds. A rainy day but plenty to do inside the main building and the domes and time to play outside when the rain paused. We've been recently but kids really wanted to go again. The new orrery in one of the domes captivated me. Kids still love playing with the water stuff by the entrance...
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited with our 4-year-old daughter and all had a wonderful time. There is something for everyone, from the exhibits relating to the astronomical work, to the many hands-on activities that kept our daughter fascinated.
We'll definitely be going back at some point, hopefully on one of the open evenings.
We'll definitely be going back at some point, hopefully on one of the open evenings.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited with my 2 children age 8 & 14. Lots to do inside and out. Real hands on science. Cafe and shop were well priced and staff very friendly. A great day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
