“It would not be much of a universe if it wasn’t home to the people we love”
– Stephen Hawking
From towering telescopes, cosmic curiosities to interactive exhibits, there’s a galaxy-full of spectacular space education days out in the UK to explore! Whether you’re looking to escape in an outer space experience with your amazing astronaut-crazy crew, or dreaming of some stargazing for some family chill time, buckle up! If you read this twinkling top 5 list, you can thankfully navigate more easily, and rocket there much quicker than you might think… Let’s start this epic family journey to the stars with a cosmic countdown from 5:
5. Discover six galleries of galactic surprises at the NATIONAL SPACE CENTRE – Leicester
Photo Credit: National Space Centre
What is it really like to be an astronaut, explore spacecraft, and learn about the challenges of space travel? Make learning an uplifting experience! From the origins of the universe to the latest space missions, this centre provides hours of fun with a wealth of educational resources. Whether it’s climbing aboard a simulated space shuttle or marvelling at the size of real spacecraft, there are plenty of hands-on activities to entertain the whole family. And, you are in for a treat! One of the highlights is their Planetarium Shows, where families can embark on virtual journeys through the solar system and beyond… With state-of-the-art technology and stunning visuals, these immersive experiences offer a breath-taking glimpse into the wonders of the universe.
Why it’s our Top Pick:
- Award-winning planetarium shows – the UK’s largest!
- Educational programming (look out for the latest workshops, expert talks and special events!)
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- World-class artefact collection and comprehensive education
- Unique opportunities, such as the iconic 42-metre-high Rocket Tower
4. Find exciting secrets to the stars at WINCHESTER SCIENCE CENTRE AND PLANETARIUM – Hampshire
Photo Credit: Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium
Whether it’s launching rockets, exploring the solar system, or attending an eye-popping planetarium show, your family are sure to be inspired here and engaged by the wonders of the cosmos! Delve into the mesmerising mysteries of space in their Explorer: Space gallery and experience simulated missions to outer space, walk on the surface of the moon and more!
Why it’s our Top Pick:
- Hands-on learning: featuring 100 interactive exhibits
- Stunning state-of-the-art planetarium
- Welcoming picnic places for eating with the family al-fresco, as it is located in the South Downs National Park! Relax outside, ‘eating your sandwiches in the Planetarium’s shadows.’
- The option of Plan B if it is chilly or raining; enjoy an indoor picnic at the Space Café on the lower floor. The round table design is well thought out, too – great for pushchairs as well as wheelchairs, or if you use lip reading! Another option is to head to the Hub café to fill your hungry space explorers, if you’re looking to buy.
- The other Science adventures, especially the Sound, Hearing and Vibration exhibition… Climb into a giant guitar, and also experience the amazing acoustics of a sonic rocket.
Please note: Currently, you can visit between 9:30am to 5pm weekends and school holidays, however is closed weekdays during term time, and Christmas Eve to Boxing Day. Be sure to double-check up-to-date opening times before planning your day out, to ensure a smooth adventure out!
3. Reach for the stars and shoot for the moon at GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE – Scotland
Photo Credit: Glasgow Science Centre
In addition to its spectacular space-themed exhibits and planetarium shows, there are a variety of science shows and demonstrations that showcase the wonders of physics, chemistry, and engineering. Your budding astronomers can also witness exciting experiments and engage in interactive demonstrations that bring mind-blowing science to life!
Why it’s our Top Pick:
- Wondrous walk-way through the Solar System
- Spectacular full-dome digital projection system Planetarium (15-metre hemispherical dome with 360° displays!)
- Entertaining science shows, dazzling demonstrations and other technology exhibitions
- Also great for budding scientists
2. Experience spectacular space themed thrills at LIFE SCIENCE CENTRE – Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
Photo Credit: Life Science Centre
This gemstone (or should that be moonstone) of a place in The Toon promises lots of fun finding out just how astronauts live in space! Witness thrilling science experiments and launch mini rockets in live demonstrations and expert-led workshops, too!
Why it’s our Top Pick:
- Educational charity with no public funding, so all ticket money helps raise love and education of science for all ages
- Family-friendly Planetarium Shows at the digital globe, the Sphere
- Mission Control experience, navigating space crafts to collect falling space junk
- Replica of the International Space Station
1. Embark on an epic space education adventure at JODRELL BANK DISCOVERY CENTRE – Cheshire
Photo Credit: The construction of the Lovell Telescope Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre
Get ready to be awestruck by the colossal Lovell Telescope, a true giant in the world of radio astronomy! Towering above, it’s like the gentle giant of space, quietly listening to the whispers of the universe and revealing its secrets to you. You’ll all leave feeling a connection to the stars that’s as big as the telescope itself! Continue the fun once you ‘land back on earth’ again with their home-science resources, and also make a Rocket Juice!
Why it’s our Top Pick:
- Uniqueness as an active scientific research base and a World Heritage Site
- Immersive shows at Planet Pavilion
- Pioneering stories of inspirational scientists
- Award-winning learning programmes
- Wondrous Key Stages worksheets available online to really keep curious minds engaged
So, please get your family ready for BLAST OFF! With all this inspiration for spectacular space education days out in the UK under your belt, you must be awe-struck by the marvels of the universe by now? Stephen Hawking’s quote above definitely shines true! This cosmic countdown means you can create memories that will sparkle for years to come…
You’ll show your adorable space explorers just how much you love them… to the moon and back, infinity and beyond!
