National Space Centre

The award-winning National Space Centre is an out of this world experience for the whole family. Home to the UK’s largest planetarium, the Centre has six interactive galleries, iconic Rocket Tower and hosts events throughout the year. 

The award winning National Space Centre is an out of this world experience for the whole family! 

With six interactive galleries, the UK’s largest planetarium, world unique 3D SIM ride and iconic 42m high Rocket Tower, there really is something for everybody to enjoy. Add to this on-site parking, café, shop and all the facilities you would expect from a world class attraction and you have an all-weather day out in Leicester, at the heart of the UK.

The rocket tower is pretty impressive for people of all ages, as it towers 42m into the air and its semi-transparent “pillow” design can be seen as you approach the Centre from any direction! It is home two rockets: Blue Streak and Thor Able, as well as a Gagarin Experience, Apollo Lunar Lander and real Moon Rock.

If that’s not enough, your entry ticket gets you a free show at the planetarium, which is the largest in the UK and first opened in 2012 by the astronomy hero Sir Patrick Moore. Depending on the time of your visit you can see We Are Stars – exploring the secrets of our explosive origins – or a presenter lead tour of the Night Sky, journeying through our solar system to galaxies beyond. With every show including the latest video technologies, sound and computer animation, you will be fully immersed in a 360 degrees cinema experience.

Each year the National Space Centre hosts many special weekends which in the past have included celebrations of Star Wars, LEGO and Daleks. School holiday periods are always exciting, as the Centre adds plenty of workshops and talks into the mix, so advanced booking is advised.  Don’t forget that if you book in advance not only will you beat the queues, but you’ll be able to upgrade to a FREE Annual Pass allowing you to return free of charge. Since there are no booking fees the prices are clear and easy to understand.

The National Space Centre is also a unique venue for a wide range of events including conferences, wedding receptions and Christmas parties. Making the most of the spectacular content and the state-of-the-art building, including the UK’s largest planetarium, the Centre offers a wide range of dynamic venue space for conferences, meetings, weddings, team building, parties and private functions.

A day out at The National Space Centre is a truly out of this world experience and bound to work up an appetite. Why not stop off at Booster’s Café for freshly made sandwiches, warm nachos with fresh chilli, cheese and salsa as well as gourmet hot dogs.

A visit to The National Space Centre wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Cargo Bay Shop to pick up a souvenir as a memento of your journey to outer space. The shop boasts a full range of fun and interactive space toys, books, games and telescopes.