Lake District's first public observatory brings stars to life at Forestry England Grizedale

Visitors to the Lake District can now journey into the cosmos at the region's first public observatory and planetarium, open now at Grizedale Forest.

The new Grizedale Observatory and Planetarium, the result of an partnership between Forestry England and GF Productions Ltd., combines cutting-edge astronomy within the natural beauty of one of Britain's most beloved national parks.

Housed in the iconic Yan building and nestled within Grizedale Forest, the observatory offers a spectacular all-weather experience including a purpose-built observatory with state-of-the-art equipment and immersive planetarium shows bringing the wonders of the universe to life.

Alison Leyshon, Recreation Business Manager for Forestry England, said: "The new Grizedale Observatory creates a truly magical experience where the beauty of the forest meets the wonder of the cosmos. It also adds to the forest’s value as a year-round, all weather visitor attraction, and as a must-visit destination for learning and adventure.

Gary Fildes, Director at Grizedale Observatory and Planetarium, says “This is a unique environment and a national treasure. Adding this wonderful facility to the many successful visitor attractions in the Lake District National Park will give visitors an opportunity to cement their connection to the landscapes during the day and now the universe in the evening”.

The observatory takes full advantage of Grizedale's exceptional setting, with some of Cumbria's darkest skies providing the perfect backdrop for stargazing. Located between Windermere and Coniston Water, visitors can enjoy breathtaking daytime views across to the Coniston fells and Langdales before turning their gaze upward as night falls.

Expert-led experiences include bookable dark sky events, drop-in family activities including meteorite handling, and specialist talks connecting audiences of all ages to astronomy.

Grizedale Forest, already renowned as the UK's premier forest for sculpture with over 50 unique artworks, continues to evolve as a destination that blends art, adventure, nature and now science. The observatory complements the forest's existing attractions, which include artworks from some of the country’s leading artists, exhilarating mountain biking, accessible walking routes and family activities.

Dark sky tourism has grown across the county over recent years, with Forestry England Grizedale a key part of the annual Cumbria Dark Skies festivals held each autumn, with the observatory now serving as a permanent focal point for future events celebrating the dark skies of the Lake District National Park World Heritage Site.

The Grizedale Observatory and Planetarium is open now for both booked experiences and walk-in activities in all seasons and weather conditions. For more information and to book, visit grizedaleobservatory.com.