Recently, we visited the amazing Jodrell Bank. It was the first time any of us had visited this fabulous visitor centre and we were pleasantly surprised by what we found.
Prior to our visit, I only knew there was some sort of telescope at Jodrell Bank. But I had no clue about what else would be there.
I was right, there is a telescope, but it isn’t quite the telescope I had imagined! The telescope listens for sound waves in space. Jodrell Bank is home to 3 working telescopes that continually listen for radio waves in the Milky Way. The main telescope, the Lovell Telescope was built in 1957. It has a colossal 76-metre diameter and has been awarded a Heritage Grade 1 listing.
If you’re fortunate, like us you will be able to see the telescope moving. We stood in awe as all of a sudden, this huge beast turned and tilted to listen to the sounds as they moved throughout space.
Why Visit Jodrell Bank?
The staff at Jodrell Bank are extremely friendly and very knowledgeable. We had a chat with various members of staff who told us all about the construction of the Lovell Telescope and the history of this Observatory.
There are various talks and demonstrations throughout the day. We attended one of these demonstrations and really enjoyed the scientific experiments.
There is plenty to keep the children entertained. Aside from the huge telescope, there is an information centre. This is filled with lots of interactive displays. Children can learn as they play in this educational but fun-filled area.
There is an on-site cafe and a visitor’s shop too. If you bring your own picnic, you’ll find plenty of benches. There’s also an indoor seating area complete with a log fire where you can enjoy lunch.
If you’re looking for family days out with the children, you should add Jodrell Bank to your list. We spent around 4 happy hours at Jodrell Bank. What’s more, we learnt so much about space and we even created a budding scientist! We will definitely be returning for another visit once the new First Light Pavilion exhibition opens in June of this year.
For a similar post, see A Visit to Sum It Up, Oldham.
