The event at Grassholme Observatory, on Saturday 24 October 2026, 8pm to 11pm, will begin with a welcome from the lead astronomer, Gary Fildes. Gary is a very experienced science communicator and astronomer, and founder of the Kielder Observatory, where he was Director and CEO for over 11 years.
After the welcome Gary, and the team, will take you on a whistle-stop tour of the Universe. Following this, you will be split into groups and, weather depending, start observing the sky, with telescopes and cameras.
Have you ever looked up at the night-time sky and wondered why you can’t see anything other than stars? Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered how far it is to the stars that you can see? Do you want to know what a star is, how a telescope works, or even where it all came from? If your answered yes to any of these questions, then you have come to the right place – Grassholme Observatory’s introduction evenings will cover all this and more.
After the observing ends it is back into the classroom for a hot drink and a chat, before heading off home.
Bring warm clothes – it can get chilly when you are outside. The observatory, classroom and toilets are accessible. This is a pet free event.
- Adult: £27 (16+)
- Family: £80 (max of 4, min of 2)
- Concession: £22 (65+, 1-16 years, Blue Badge holder)
Your booking is non-refundable. Should Grassholme Observatory cancel the event for any reason they will, however, make a full refund or give the option of a transfer to another date. If you are unable to undertake dark sky observing because of cloud cover then they will offer you a 20% discount on a future booking made and taken within eight weeks of the event.
- Visit https://www.grassholmeobservatory.com/whats-on/astronomy-and-stargazing-112/ to book, for full terms and conditions, and further information.
This Grassholme Observatory (www.grassholmeobservatory.com) event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 16 October to 1 November 2026 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest26 #NPennDarkSkies
Image: Star trails at Grassholme Observatory © Grassholme Observatory.
