Guided tours

Visit the unique Victorian Altazimuth Pavilion, constructed in 1899 and learn about its architecture and the history of the telescopes housed within. The free Open House tour led by a knowledgable volunteer will include viewing the new 21st century Annie Maunder Astrographic Telescope (AMAT) and historic dome, which is only ocassionally accessible to the public. The building also features a brand new exhibition on the lower floor detailing the story of a pioneering 19th century female astronomer, Annie Maunder.

Visit the brand new Annie Maunder Astrographic Telescope (AMAT) in a free, whistle-stop tour of the facility. A screen next to the instruments will show off either a live view of the Sun or past recorded footage and your guide will give a brief overview the types of astronomy the telescopes can be used for. In good weather, these brief tours will run alongside free solar viewing from Flamsteed Astronomical Society outside with small telescopes.

Ae: 7+

Explore the 1869 clipper, celebrated for her record-breaking passages around the globe and find out about life on board and the story of this ship’s survival.

Booking information

Tours convene at the Admissions desk, in the shop.

Guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs are welcome: do let us know when booking onto a tour if you will be bringing one of these.