Discover the Best Family Shows at Sherwood Observatory Planetarium and Science Centre

Summer Solstice may have passed us by, but there is plenty more to look forward to this summer at the state-of-the-art Sherwood Observatory Science and Planetarium in lovely Sutton in Ashfield.

The Centre is a brand-new place of interest, which is housed in a wonderful, converted Victorian reservoir with fantastic views of the local area.

So, if you’re looking for a fantastic outing that appeals to the whole family, look no further than Sherwood Observatory. This hidden gem is not only a centre for learning about the universe, but also an amazing place to gather as a family or visit with friends and make lasting memories.

With a busy programme that offers a variety of immersive and enlightening shows, Open Days and special events taking place during the week and at weekends, there's always something lined us for everyone.

Why Visit Sherwood Observatory?

Sherwood Observatory is run by a charity made up of members, volunteers and a small number of staff. It offers astronomy enthusiasts and visitors a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of space at a state-of-the-art facility in Nottinghamshire. So, whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or simply curious to learn more about the cosmos, the observatory’s friendly volunteers and staff and engaging Planetarium Shows, Open Days and Events will inspire and enlighten you across the topic.

It’s an inclusive and accessible place which welcomes everyone and where questions about space and science are encouraged, and discoveries are always celebrated!

Experience and learn about the night sky and space like never before. The Planetarium at Sherwood Observatory offers immersive shows that transport you into the heart of the universe. With stunning visuals and narratives that fascinate both children and adults, these shows are perfect for sparking interest in astronomy and science.

See Below Some Of The Incredible Shows On Offer and Come Join Us - You Won't Want to Miss Out!

Family favourites include:

• Ted’s Space Adventure

Explore the Solar System with a bear named Ted, and his companion Plant, learning about the things we find there and how they affect us.

Ted’s Space Adventure is an ideal introduction to the wonders of the Solar System, and features interactivity, music and rhyme, the show is a must for pre-school children!

Following on from this show, our presenter will lead you through a night sky story, specifically aimed at inquisitive young minds.

Suitable for under 5’s. One adult can accompany up to 3 children aged 3 and under for this event.

• We Are Stars

Explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and our explosive origins. Connect life on Earth to the evolution of the Universe by following the formation of Hydrogen atoms to the synthesis of Carbon, and the molecules for life.

With expert input from leading scientists, leading cosmologists, astrophysicists, Astro chemists, planetary scientists and astrobiologists, We Are Stars presents humanity’s current understanding of where everything, including us, came from. Both educational and entertaining, this show includes an animation style that is designed to be appealing and accessible to families, keeping children engaged.

Suitable for all ages 4+ Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult.

• The Great Solar System Adventure

Join showman extraordinaire “The Great Schiaparelli” as he takes the audience on a death-defying space-time adventure within his wondrous Observatorium.

From the sun-scorched surface of Mercury to the icy expanses of Pluto and beyond, prepare to be subjected to the myriad dangers and wonders of our Solar System, on a breathtaking tour that reveals just how precious our home planet really is. Both educational and entertaining, this show includes an animation style that is designed to be appealing and accessible to families, keeping children engaged.

Suitable for all ages 4+ Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult.

• Astronaut George

Join Astronaut George on an exciting adventure in our full-dome Planetarium show aimed at under 5’s.

The perfect introduction to space, George investigates the best planet to live on and the dangers lurking on the surface of other planets in our Solar System. Will he find any alien friends to play with? Join us for this fun interplanetary adventure!

Following on from this show, our presenter will lead you through the constellations in the sky using the Planetarium dome to locate and identify key features of the night sky.

Both educational and entertaining, this show includes an animation style that is designed to be appealing and accessible to families, keeping children engaged.

Suitable for under 5’s. *One adult can accompany up to 3 children aged 3 and under for this even

Older Children/ Teenage:

• CAPCOM GO! The Apollo Story:

CAPCOM GO! celebrates the achievements of the Apollo program and what it took to put the first human on the Moon more than 50 years ago.

It introduces a new generation to the immense challenges they overcame and will inspire them to become the explorers, designers, engineers, thinkers and dreamers of the future.

Aimed at teen/adult audiences (however children 4+ are welcome to attend). Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult.

• Distant Worlds - Alien Life?

Explore the possibility of life on other planets. Learn the limits of biology as we know it. Imaginative visualizations of possible life forms.

“Distant Worlds — Alien Life?” is a beautiful planetarium film exploring one of the most enduring questions of humankind — are we alone?

For millennia our ancestors watched the stars, questioning the origin and nature of what they saw. Still today we ask these questions, knowing that the Universe is a vast place filled with billions and billions of stars and planets — Yet, Earth is the only planet we know for sure to be inhabited.

Aimed at teen/adult audiences. Please note that under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Not suitable for children 3 and under.

How To Book A Visit:

When you book a Planetarium show, you also get to explore our in house and visiting exhibitions and take the opportunity to enjoy light refreshments in our comfortable café.

All visits must be booked online in advance, we cannot take bookings on site at Sherwood Observatory

Note: The above is just a taster of some of what’s on offer. There are shows for lots of different audiences not just families, so keep an eye on our site listings which are updated regularly https://sherwood-observatory.org.uk/

A visit to Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire is not just a trip; it’s an experience! With its friendly atmosphere and inspiring events, it’s the perfect destination for families looking to learn, explore, and create unforgettable memories together. So, gather your loved ones and prepare for an adventure that’s out of this world! We can’t wait to see you there!

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Written by Susanna M Holt for Visit Nottinghamshire