The Observatory Science Centre at Herstmonceux, one of Britain’s most well-known and historic observatories, has announced it will be leaving its current site before the end of 2026.
A statement on the Observatory Science Centre‘s website said that, having been told the lease will not be extended, they are on the hunt for new premises.
The Science Centre opened at the current site in East Sussex in 1995 and welcomes around 60,000 visitors through its doors every year, according to the observatory.
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Herstmonceux had previously been the site of the Royal Greenwich Observatory, which left the premises in 1990.
Science Projects Ltd. then took over the lease of the buildings and opened the current Science Centre.
With the observatory’s historic telescopes still at the site, a heritage lottery grant was secured and an exhibition opened to tell the story of the Royal Greenwich Observatory.
The centre’s telescopes and domes were also refurbished for the purposes of public outreach.
“We will be very sad to leave the Observatory, which has been our home for the past 30 years but we are excited at the prospect of finding a new location for our many spectacular interactive science exhibits,” says Abbie Rumbold, Interim CEO of the Observatory Science Centre.
“We hope that moving will allow us to develop, with more space for science indoors and out and more school and holiday workshops – as well as all you usually expect from us – engaging exhibits, science shows and events.
“And hopefully all with increased accessibility so that more members of the community can benefit.
“Until then it will be business as usual – we are looking forward to a great summer and then a year packed full of events for our 30th anniversary in 2025.
“So watch this space and please contact me at abbie@science-projects.org if you know somewhere you think might suit us!”