Jodrell Bank, First Light Pavilion

It is a world-renowned astronomical research and education facility, dedicated to promoting public engagement with astronomy and space science. It is part of the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics at the University of Manchester and is famous for housing a range of astronomical observation equipment, including the iconic Lovell Telescope. Jodrell Bank Observatory was established in 1945 by Bernard Lovell, following his work with radar during World War II, to investigate cosmic rays. Since then, it has made significant contributions to the development of radio astronomy, including the study of meteors, quasars, pulsars, masers, gravitational lensing, and the tracking of space probes. The original visitor center, opened in 1971 by the Duke of Devonshire, was demolished in 2003 due to asbestos concerns, and a new visitor center was inaugurated in 2011. In 2022, the state-of-the-art First Light Pavilion was opened, offering an immersive exhibition that explores the history of astronomy and space exploration. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, Jodrell Bank provides an ideal setting for walking and picnicking, making it a perfect destination for both science enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Information, interesting and educational place to visit. Judy who served us at the entrance was very helpful and helped us plan our time there telling us what events were on at what times. The Dome Show is recommended as is the Telescope Talk. The Lovell Telescope is impressively huge! We were lucky to witness is rotating on its base and pitching a full 90 degrees. The cafe was nice and overall the site was clean, tidy with lots of helpful staff. Would definitely recommend a trip out here. When buying tickets, Gift Aid if you can.

Amazing experience I took my 45 year old dad , he absolutely loved it. There is a big dome that is immersive inside when you watch these videos .They were ace! We did not go in the cafe but it was ok as well they close at 4 o'clock on winter holidays and 5 o'clock on normal days . There is a mini dish that you can talk to each other from one side of a path to another . Highly recommended it is amazing it is so interesting and beautiful.