Astrocampus
📍 Heslington, York YO10 5NA, UK
About Astrocampus
The Astrocampus, part of the University of York, offers a fascinating journey into the cosmos from its location in Heslington, York. This highly-regarded planetarium and observatory is dedicated to fostering an understanding and appreciation of astronomy. While primarily a university facility, it hosts special public open evenings and invited tours, allowing visitors to explore its impressive astronomical instruments and learn about space science.
Visitors consistently praise the Astrocampus experience, contributing to its excellent Google rating of 4.8/5 stars. Guests highlight the engaging and informative tours led by the enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff and students, making for a fun and educational experience for all ages. The campus is equipped with multiple telescopes housed in two cupolas, along with various dishes and scientific equipment, providing unique insights into the universe.
Visiting Information
The Astrocampus operates Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, remaining closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Please note that public access is typically limited to pre-arranged tours or special public events. The facility offers excellent accessibility, including wheelchair-accessible parking, an accessible entrance, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. For convenience, the Astrocampus accepts various payment methods and does not operate on a cash-only basis.
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📍 Heslington, York YO10 5NA, UK
from 31 reviews
Google Reviews
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Showing 5 of 31 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 6 February 2026.
Took my astrophysics mad 13 yo and not quite so interested 10yo to the public open evening. Both were captivated by the setting and the opportunity to see ‘proper’ astronomy in action. We went on bonfire night so it was too cloudy and too many fireworks to see anything through the telescopes but the team had lots of photos and information so it was an excellent evening and we would recommend going even if it’s cloudy or rainy - there’s still plenty to do! Though the sessions are aimed at age 7+, there was plenty of new information and opportunities to ask questions to keep my older boys interested. We particularly enjoyed seeing inside the dome telescope and finding out how it worked. I felt the team did a fantastic job of pitching the presentations to the people who were actually there even though they use standard presentations. No knowledge was assumed but they picked up on areas where they could expand to an interested audience. Being in small groups helped my kids to feel confident to ask what they wanted to know and it was great to have the sessions led by students who are currently studying at the university - makes it feel possible for youngsters to aspire to a career in astrophysics. We intend to return in the new year to see what we remembered and, hopefully, see through some of the telescopes.
We really enjoyed our time here, the students were knowledgeable, friendly and happy to answer questions. Well worth a visit.
Multiple telescopes in two cupolas, plus various dishes and what-not. Friendly and helpful people - my Cubs had a great time. NOTE: this is part of the university, behind a locked gate, and NOT open to the public. Go on an invited tour, or don't go at all!
The Astrocampus Public Open evening was a great hour of informative space related fun, for both adults and kids. The students and staff leading the event were all very enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
Went for an Stargazing event advertised and booked on Event Bright. Informative evening and my Boys loved using the telescope and binoculars also holding a meteorite!