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Tourist Attraction

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre

Macclesfield, Cheshire

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Photo: Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement

About Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre

Discover the mysteries of space at this interactive science centre beneath the iconic Lovell Telescope, featuring engaging exhibits, beautiful grounds perfect for picnics, and facilities for all ages.

What's nearby

  • Jodrell Bank Observatory Control Building next door

Distances as the crow flies, via Google

Good to know

Parking

  • ✓Free car park
  • ✓Paid car park
  • ✓Free street

Accessibility

  • ✓Accessible parking
  • ✓Accessible entrance
  • ✓Accessible toilet
  • ✓Accessible seating

Payment

  • ✓Credit cards
  • ✓Debit cards
  • ✓Contactless

Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.

Photos

Photos via Google

Opening hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What visitors say

Zhuzhu

We had a really lovely experience at Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement. It’s a fantastic place to visit with children. There is an indoor museum, activity room as well as playgrounds, so it works well even if the weather isn’t great. The Dome cinema was a real highlight — the film was excellent and very engaging. On our first visit, I didn’t realise tickets could be bought on the day, as it showed as sold out online, so we missed it. On a later visit, we found that staff at the entrance will often ask if you’d like to see a show and you can sometimes buy tickets on the spot. They also provide a helpful schedule for the day. The 30-minute film is definitely worth watching and highly recommended. The annual pass is very good value, especially for families, and each visit feels worthwhile. It’s a great place for children (and adults!) to learn more about astronomy and physics in a fun and accessible way. We would happily return again.

· via Google

Ian Shimwell

Jodrell Bank Space Centre is a fascinating and educational place to visit. It is located in Cheshire and is famous for its huge Lovell Telescope, which is one of the largest radio telescopes in the world. When I visited, I was amazed by how big it was and how important it has been in helping scientists study space. The centre has many interesting exhibitions about astronomy, planets, stars, and the history of space exploration. I especially enjoyed learning how radio telescopes work and how they can detect signals from far away in the universe. The information was presented clearly, so it was easy to understand and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. Another great part of the visit was the outdoor area, where there were gardens, pathways, and places to relax. The atmosphere was calm and inspiring. There were also interactive activities, which made the experience more fun and helped me learn at the same time. Overall, I would highly recommend Jodrell Bank Space Centre because it is both entertaining and informative. It is an excellent place for families, students, and anyone interested in science or space. My visit was memorable, and I would love to go again in the future.

· via Google

James O'Hanlon

Excellent place and a welcoming atmosphere. There was a couple of exhibitions you can visit. There is the main Lovell Telescope which you can walk around, and there are other smaller dishes around. Inside there is a hands off activites. I made the mistake of going on a weekday, and the place was full of school kids, so couldn't really see or read the information. Definitely recommend though.

· via Google

Pam Williamson

Went for the first time in December with 2 young children, Jodrell bank is such a great day out for families, there's lots of outdoor space, and the exhibits inside are so educational for all ages. Food is great, but there's also plenty of picnic space and the whole place is very reasonably priced. We have annual tickets and I learn something new everytime we go. The volunteers are so knowledgeable and always happy to share with you, not to mention the telescope itself is awesome. It gets 8/8 bananas from me!

· via Google

See all reviews on Google →

Visitors say this science center offers fascinating exhibitions, including interactive displays and immersive dome shows, and features the impressive Lovell Telescope. They also highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the excellent value of tickets, which provide unlimited re-entry for a year. Guests mention the cafes offer good food and drinks, and there are ample picnic areas and free parking.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
Bomish Lane, Cheshire, Macclesfield, SK11 9DW Get directions
Category
Museums & Galleries
Guest rating
4.6 / 5 (3,310 reviews)
Suitable for
All Ages
Setting
Indoor & outdoor
Good for children
Yes
Toilets on site
Yes
Destination
Macclesfield