The event will begin with a welcome from the lead astronomer at Grassholme Observatory, 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. During the North Pennines Stargazing Festival there are three evenings to choose from, Friday 24, Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October, 8pm to 11pm.
After the welcome Gary 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.
With no Moon in the sky, you will look out for the Milky Way, and many deep sky objects like galaxies, nebulae and star clusters. You will then use the robotic telescope to scour the skies for other jewels in the cosmos. Then it’s back into the classroom for a hot drink and questions.
Bring warm clothes – it can get chilly when you are outside. The observatory, classroom and toilets are accessible. This is a pet-free event.
Booking
- Visit https://www.grassholmeobservatory.com/book to book and for full terms and conditions.
- Adult: £24 (16+)
- Family: £70 (group ticket for 3-4 people, max of 4, min of 3 – at least 1 child)
- Concession: £22 (65+, 1-16 years or Blue Badge holder)
Grassholme Observatory is wheelchair accessible and there are accessible toilets on site. For more information about Grassholme Waterside Park visit https://www.watersideparksuk.com/park/grassholme/
Image: The Milky Way above Grassholme Observatory © Grassholme Observatory.
This Grassholme Observatory (www.grassholmeobservatory.com) event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies
For directions visit www.grassholmeobservatory.com/contact/
