Be Among the First to Visit Sherwood Observatory’s New World-Class Planetarium in Nottinghamshire

After over a decade of development, Sherwood Observatory’s brand-new planetarium is on track to open in late November. The new planetarium in the heart of Nottinghamshire is set to become a leading destination that inspires visitors from across the UK.

With the £6.8 million of investment, the planetarium, part of Sherwood Observatory, aims to become a top regional centre for science and education, located off Coxmoor Road in Sutton-in-Ashfield.

New Planetarium Nearing Completion at Sherwood Observatory

This £6.8 million project, funded by the UK government and charitable grants — including the National Lottery Heritage Fund and several foundations — the planetarium will seat 59 people and will be fully accessible, making it inclusive for all audiences.

Located off Coxmoor Road in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Sherwood Observatory’s planetarium will feature a ten-metre dome screen and advanced projection technology for immersive space tours. Project managers at Pick Everard and contractors G F Tomlinson have worked meticulously to incorporate historical elements, preserving original features from the Victorian subterranean reservoir within the planetarium’s design.

Councillor Matthew Relf, of Ashfield District Council, highlighted Sherwood Observatory’s potential to spark curiosity and inspire future scientists: “It will be an incredible asset for schools, families, and space enthusiasts, fuelling passion for STEM careers across our region.”

Steve Wallace, planetarium project manager, is thrilled to offer visitors a journey across the solar system and beyond: “Sherwood Observatory’s new facility will take people from planet to planet, then out into the Milky Way, with visuals that feel completely real and immersive.”

With its blend of modern innovation and heritage, Sherwood Observatory’s planetarium is set to become a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The opening marks a new era for Sherwood Observatory as a leading site for astronomical exploration in the UK.

“This is an exciting project that is contributing positively to the local area with a world-leading science and education facility,” said Nick Hanson, associate cost manager at Pick Everard. He added that Sherwood Observatory’s historical elements have been carefully preserved, blending the old with the new in a way that respects the site’s heritage.