Overview

Jodrell Bank is an exceptional location that has gained global recognition as a world-leading deep-space radio observatory. In addition to being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also an award-winning national visitor attraction.

You can explore the science and history of this fascinating place through a variety of interactive exhibitions, planetarium shows, events, and other activities. These activities are suitable for people of all ages, making it the perfect destination for families, science enthusiasts, and anyone interested in space exploration.

Things to do

Jodrell Bank is a world-renowned scientific research facility and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is affiliated with The University of Manchester. The site features four remarkable radio telescopes, namely The Lovell, Mark II, 42ft, and 7m Telescopes, which are used to detect radio waves emanating from astronomical sources in the sky. Additionally, Jodrell Bank is home to the e-MERLIN network, which comprises seven radio telescopes located across the UK.

The Lovell telescope, which has a 76-meter diameter reflecting surface, is one of the world’s largest and most powerful radio telescopes. Since its completion in 1957, it has undergone several upgrades and has continued to revolutionize our understanding of cosmic phenomena. The Mark II telescope, completed in 1964, was the first telescope of any kind to be controlled by a digital computer.

Jodrell Bank offers a wide range of events and resources for families and science enthusiasts. You can attend Meet the Expert sessions, live Science Shows, and other interactive events that showcase the facility’s cutting-edge research and pioneering heritage. The site also produces a variety of home science resources to help you continue your journey of discovery beyond your visit.

Undergraduates at The University of Manchester use the 7-meter telescope to study emission from neutral atomic hydrogen in the Milky Way and nearby galaxies, as well as to observe pulsars – rapidly rotating neutron stars. Overall, Jodrell Bank is a unique and inspiring destination for anyone interested in science and space exploration.

Food & Drink

You are invited to explore and experience the First Light Cafe, located in the brand-new building. The cafe offers a variety of delicious food and beverage options that cater to all kinds of dietary requirements, including appetizing options for younger visitors.

In addition to the First Light Cafe,  also check out the Planet Cafe which has a spectacular view of the Lovell Telescope, when it is open. For breakfast, choose from freshly baked pastries, sausage baps, breakfast wraps, and toast made on-site, priced between £2.25 and £5.95.

For lunch, the cafe has an excellent selection of fresh sandwiches, wraps, paninis, and salads, all priced between £4.25 and £6.75. The cafe also offers exciting space-themed lunch boxes for kids priced at £4.95. For those who prefer hot food, the cafe has homemade sausage rolls, pasties, pies, soup, and baked potatoes with a selection of fillings, priced between £2.95 and £6.95.

The cafe serves barista-crafted coffee, hot and cold drinks, and freshly made cakes throughout the day, priced between £1.45 and £4.50. In addition, you can enjoy the covered picnic areas if you wish to bring your own food.