Norman Lockyer Observatory - Sidmouth

Alan P.

An observatory and planetarium running due to the passion and generosity of its volunteers who maintain and operate various telescopes some of which are over a 100 years old.
Plenty of events and opportunities to visit and/or get involved. Long may this resource continue

Alex B.

Great for a visit whether a family or by yourself there is a lot of history to learn about and be part of, alongside taking part in active observing if the weather is clear using Victorian and modern telescopes even if overcast touring all the detecting equipment at the Lockyer Technology Centre can be just as exciting!

It’s also fantastic place to join up as a member for an annual fee, you can meet and get to know the other members and become part of the fabric of the observatory absorbing information from the members events; talks and observing workshops just to mention a few and perhaps becoming one of the volunteers during the open evening explaining how the site mixes it Victorian and modern day equipment from an orrery to a muon detector!

I would be bias in saying this was probably the top attraction in East Devon and a hidden gem in the South West overall being a volunteer at the NLO but it’s true 🙂

Vinnie R.

Got so much value from the tour. Only £10 and we were there for over 3 hours. There were some presentations, got to look through 2 telescopes, other monitoring systems in the technology centre and learned lots about the history of the place

Paul B.

A great introduction to this facility thanks to National Astronomy Week.
Really knowledgeable volunteers with a passion for preserving and renovating the buildings and
telescopes as well as continuing the founder's century old work in spectrography.
The technology centre was a real eye opener, carrying out great science. I especially loved the Moo-on (muon) detectors

Dee D.

The team here are very knowledgeable and very kind and enthusiastic. Will definitely be going back. If this place needs funding then fund it. We need it to stay open xx

M G.

We visited the observatory on NASA's annual Observe the Moon Night. It was a wonderful and fabulous experience and good value for money. The staff and volunteers were so kind and generous with their time, sharing their expertise and knowledge. It was the highlight of my holiday and I recommend it to anyone if you are in the area. It is suitable for all age ranges. Best to come prepared with layers or warm clothing if the evenings/nights are chilly.

Leandra G. A.

Absolutely wonderful. Well worth a visit. Volunteer staff are so friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable . Will definitely be coming back. Fantastic telescopes and great talks and storytelling

Joseph R.

Brilliant evening with the beavers and scouts. Great presentation about the night sky and solar system, then a planetarium show, followed by viewing of the moon and tour of the older telescopes. Everyone had a great time. We'll definitely be coming again.