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Outdoors

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre

Macclesfield
Courtesy of Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre

SETTING

Outdoors

WHERE

Macclesfield

What it’s like

UNESCO radio telescope day out near Macclesfield - Space Dome films, trails and cafes.

Jodrell Bank is the Cheshire day trip when you want a real radio telescope, Space Dome films and outdoor trails without Soft Play. UNESCO World Heritage site with the Lovell Telescope as the hero view.

Soft Play is N. Book tickets online; last entry 15:30. Free parking. Phone on airplane mode near the dishes.

Tue-Sun 10:00-17:00. Near Macclesfield - allow extra journey time for local roadworks.

What’s on here

Facilities

Parking
Free parking
Café
Gift shop
Picnic area
Wheelchair accessible
School visits
Group bookings
Toilets

Plan your visit

Is there parking?

Yes, free parking on site.

Can we eat there?

Yes, there's a café, and there's a picnic area if you'd rather bring your own.

How accessible is it?

The venue lists wheelchair access.

Do they do birthday parties?

Yes, the venue offers group bookings. Details and booking on their site.

Is it indoors?

No, this one's an outdoor day, so pick your weather.

How do we find it?

Bomish Lane, Nr. Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9DW / SK11 9DL. Due to ongoing local roadworks, allow extra time to plan your journey.

Experiences

  • Clockwork Orrery

    indoors

    A working model of the Solar System in the Planet Pavilion. Currently closed for maintenance, reopening autumn 2026.

  • Lovell Telescope

    outdoors

    Grade I listed radio telescope, the UK's largest, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Space Dome

    indoors

    Immersive dome venue showing films and shows, including live musician events.

  • Whispering Dishes

    outdoors

    Outdoor exhibit.

Also on site

  • First Light Café

    Café open 11.00-15.00, weekends only.

  • Jodrell Bank Gift Shop

    On-site gift shop.

  • Planet Café

    Café open 10.00-16.30, no ticket needed to visit.

Areas to explore

  • First Light Pavilion

    indoors

    New permanent exhibition about the history of Jodrell Bank.

  • Guided pathways

    outdoors

    Two guided outdoor pathways through the grounds.

  • Space Pavilion

    indoors

    Science exhibition space.

Featured in 2 Huddlepin lists

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See all Observatories & Planetariums in Manchester · Things to do in Manchester

Also filed underScience & Discovery Centres in Manchester ›

MAKE A DAY OF IT

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