Herschel Museum of Astronomy
The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is the former home of Astronomer William Herschel and is a Museum dedicated to him and his family's achievements.
Explore the magic behind astronomy and the fascinating discoveries made by the Herschel family.
There are plenty of things to see and do at the Herschel Museum of Astronomy, such as:
- The Caroline Lucretia Gallery
- Telescopes
- Globes and Planetaria
- The Garden
- The Herschel Family Tree
- The Music Room
- The Workshop
- William Herschel's Travel Diary
- Mirror Polishing Machine
- Dress worn by Caroline Herschel
- Caroline Herschel's Visitor's Book
- Miniature portrait group of Margaret Bryan and her daughters
As well as talented musicians, the Herschels were Astronomers and it's this very house that William Herschel used one of his own telescope designs to discover Uranus back in 1781. His observations helped to double the known size of the solar system.
Following a tradition of the great astronomers of the Renaissance, he pushed forward the science of building telescopes. He was rewarded for his work by King George III, and also received the Copley Medal. His sister Caroline also made a huge contribution to the field of astronomy. The work of the Herschels clearly had an impact on modern science and space exploration.
Opening Times:
Open for self-led visits (60 minute session). Pre-booked timed tickets only, rule of 6 people or two households per time slot/hour.
Wednesdays to Sundays, 10am to 5pm (last entry 4pm).
- Session 1: 10am to 11am
- Session 2: 11.30am to 12.30pm
- Session 3: 1pm to 2pm
- Session 4: 2.30pm to 3.30pm
- Session 5: 4pm to 5pm
Admission Prices:
Off Peak (May - June)
- Adults: £9.50
- Children: £4.50 (5 - 15 year olds, under 5s go free)
- Family Ticket: £20 (Two adults and up to four children)
- Concessions: £8.50 (Seniors and students)
- BPT Member: Free
Peak (July - August)
- Adults: £11.50
- Children: £5.50 (5 - 15 year olds, under 5s go free)
- Family Ticket: £24 (Two adults and up to four children)
- Concessions: £10 (Seniors and students)
- BPT Member: Free
Please note that all tickets must be booked in advance. Click here to book!
