In the heart of the Lake District, where daytime vistas of fells and water are world-renowned, a new attraction is now illuminating the night. The region's first dedicated public observatory and planetarium has opened its doors in Grizedale Forest, offering visitors a chance to explore the cosmos above the iconic national park.
A Portal to the Stars in Grizedale Forest
Far from the glow of urban centres, the white dome of Grizedale Observatory now rises among the trees. Opened in May, the facility is the vision of director Gary Fildes, a veteran astronomer who previously founded the Kielder and Grassholme observatories. His goal is to create an immersive, year-round destination that brings the beauty of the Cumbrian skies to everyone.
The observatory runs a packed schedule, including three-hour stargazing sessions on moonless nights for viewing galaxies and nebulae, astrophotography workshops, and immersive films in its planetarium. It forms a permanent hub for cosmic study, even hosting school groups. The site also plays a key role in Cumbria's annual Dark Skies Festival each October and November.
More Than Just a Telescope: An Immersive Experience
A visit is designed as a full experience, rain or shine. The central 'Mission Control' area features a cafe, a hand-painted mural, and model rockets. For nights when the Cumbrian weather closes in, the planetarium offers a stunning virtual tour of the heavens, while the Meteorite Lab allows guests to examine real pieces of the moon and Mars under microscopes.
The team's passion is palpable. Gary Fildes recounts his journey from a curious bricklayer in Sunderland to an international observatory developer, now also working on a major project in Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia. He emphasises the emotional impact of astronomy, recalling a visitor who wept upon seeing Saturn's rings through a telescope, connecting her to a childhood memory of her father.
"For me, astronomy isn't just about science and telescopes," says Fildes. "It's about people. It's about perspective, wonder, and realising that we're all part of something far bigger."
Exploring the Area: Art, Walks and Gingerbread
Reaching the observatory is an adventure in itself. For those without a car, a train to Windermere followed by the 505 bus to Hawkshead village is straightforward. The final three-mile stretch to the site can be walked, cycled, or taken by taxi, with walking routes offering spectacular fell views and encounters with Grizedale's famous forest sculpture trail, including works by Andy Goldsworthy.
The nearby village of Hawkshead provides perfect accommodation, from a cosy log cabin next to the observatory to the refurbished 17th-century King's Arms hotel. The village is a walker's haven, with pubs, delis, and the new National Trust secondhand bookshop in the former Beatrix Potter Gallery. Visitors can even stock up on famous Grasmere Gingerbread, now sold from a sister shop on Hawkshead's square, with star-shaped cakes planned in support of the observatory.
Ticket prices start at £13 for adult observatory entry, with a three-hour stargazing session costing £30. The observatory also issues a free clear-sky pass for guests whose viewing is hampered by clouds, ensuring they can return for a stellar spectacle.
