A Magical Visitor attraction under the dark skies of Teesdale

What's On Book

Welcome to Grassholme Observatory

With truly dark skies and picturesque views over Teesdale’s Grassholme reservoir, Northumbrian Water, alongside lead astronomer Gary Fildes, are extremely excited to bring to you a visitor experience that is out of this world!

Our observatory, based within the north east’s beautiful County Durham countryside, offers you the opportunity to gaze into the vastness and beauty of the universe. Astronomy is something all of us at some point wonder about, so let us guide you to understand the wonders of planets, stars galaxies, and beyond at one of our events.

Using high-tech instruments and computers in the wonderful observatory and classroom, Gary and his team will take you on a journey that will teach and enthrall.

We welcome you to your universe!

Discover when is the best time to visit Grassholme Observatory

 

*Depending on the phase of the moon, some dimmer stars may be less visible due to the moonlight. During these times, more weighting toward moon observations may occur.
*All images shown on this website depicting the night sky have been taken at Grassholme Observatory or reservoir unless stated.
Gift vouchers are available through our booking system.

What’s On

At Grassholme Observatory

Check out our classroom and the Grassholme Observatory before you visit!

Click on the highlighted areas to move around and explore.

Useful Information

Here are some links to contact us with your queries.

WHERE TO FIND US

Near Mickleton Village, Barnard Castle

If coming from the north, take the B6277 from the A67 at Barnard Castle. Continue along the B6277 towards Mickleton. Turn off left at the western end of the village onto West Pasture Road, signposted Grassholme Reservoir. The main car park is roughly a mile up the road on the right.

If coming from the south, take the B6276 from the A66 at Brough. Continue along the B6276 for 10 miles towards Thringarth. Turn right before reaching Thringarth onto Grassholme Lane, near Selset Reservoir. Turn left onto Kelton Lane and the Grassholme Observatory main car park is roughly a mile up the road on the left.

Find us using sat nav:
DL12 0PW

Contact Us
UK map, showing where Grassholme is

Explore Grassholme reservoir and local area

Astrophotography

Click book tickets for our calendar of available dates

Most people who own a camera have tried taking pictures of the night sky in some way! Sometimes you get …

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