Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium

Museum in Winchester

Intech Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester
Intech Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Peter Facey

Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium is an interactive science attraction on the edge of the city at Morn Hill, set within the South Downs National Park and about three miles from central Winchester. It's the kind of place that pulls you straight into doing rather than just looking: buttons to press, experiments to try, big demos to watch, and plenty of hands-on stations designed to spark curiosity in kids and grown-ups alike.

What makes it such a strong addition to a Winchester itinerary is that it offers a totally different energy from the city's medieval landmarks and cathedral stops. If you're travelling with family, or you simply like attractions that feel lively and participatory, it's one of the top attractions in Winchester, and it can be a fun “change-of-pace” day on a walking tour of Winchester when you want something modern, indoor-friendly, and packed with action.

History and Significance of the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

The Science Centre opened in the early 2000s as a purpose-built space for hands-on learning, with a mission that goes beyond being a visitor attraction. It’s run by an educational charity, and part of what you’re supporting with a ticket is outreach and access for schools and local communities, which gives the place a very “live” role in the region rather than being a static collection.

Its location at Morn Hill is also part of the story: you’re right on the edge of the South Downs landscape, which subtly shapes the feel of the experience. You can spend your day exploring physics, engineering, space, and nature, then step outside and realise you’re surrounded by open downland rather than city streets.

The Planetarium is the signature feature, and it’s a big reason this venue has built such a strong reputation nationally. It turns the abstract idea of “space” into something immersive and immediate, which is often the moment that sticks in people’s memories long after the exhibits blur together.

Things to See and Do in the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

Start with the interactive exhibit floors, where the emphasis is on experimenting and discovering patterns rather than reading long panels. The best approach is to treat it like a playground for curiosity: try things quickly, circle back to favourites, and don’t be afraid to skip anything that isn’t grabbing you, because there’s plenty more around the corner.

Build your day around at least one live science show. These are typically the high-impact moments, with big demonstrations and clear explanations that make complex ideas feel easy to grasp, especially for children who learn best through spectacle and surprise.

Then make the Planetarium a non-negotiable. If you only do one “book-a-time” activity, make it this: it’s immersive, well-paced, and a great reset when you want everyone to sit down together for a shared experience before diving back into hands-on exhibits.

If you’re visiting with younger kids, look for seasonal trails and added holiday activities that are usually included with general admission. They’re a simple way to give the day a bit of structure, especially if you’ve got different ages and attention spans in your group.

How to Get to the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

The nearest airports are Southampton Airport (SOU) and London Heathrow (LHR). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Winchester on Booking.com.

By train, travel to Winchester Station, then connect onward by local bus or taxi for the short hop out to Morn Hill. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By bus, the No. 64 service runs between Winchester and Alresford and stops within a short walk of the Science Centre, making it one of the easier “out of town” attractions to reach without driving. If you're travelling by car, the Science Centre is close to the M3 (leave at Junction 10 and follow signs toward the A31/Alton and the brown tourist signs for the attraction).

Practical Tips on Visiting the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

  • Entrance fee: Standard entry (Adult/Child 3–16): £17.50; Advance (14+ days): £14.00; Under 3: Free; Planetarium show: +£4.
  • Opening hours: Saturday – Sunday: 09:30–17:00; School holidays: Daily: 09:30–17:00.
    Monday – Friday (term time): Closed (open for school groups only).
    Closed on 24 December – 26 December.
  • Official website: https://www.winchestersciencecentre.org/
  • Best time to visit: Choose a weekend morning or the first school-holiday slot for the widest show availability, then plan a Planetarium session mid-visit as a good “everyone sits down” break.
  • How long to spend: Allow 3-5 hours if you want exhibits plus a show and a Planetarium session without rushing; a full day works easily if you’re travelling with children.
  • Accessibility: It’s designed as a modern family venue with accessible facilities and step-free movement through most areas, but it’s worth checking specific requirements (wheelchairs, sensory needs, companion access) before you travel.
  • Facilities: On-site café, toilets, and a shop, plus plenty of indoor space that makes this a reliable option in wet or cold weather.

Where to Stay Close to the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in central Winchester near the Cathedral and High Street so you can walk to the city's main sights; if your trip is focused on easy access to Morn Hill and quick road connections, staying around the station side of the city is the most efficient compromise.

For a boutique base that’s ideal for evenings and dining after a day out, Hotel du Vin Winchester is a strong pick in the heart of town. If you prefer classic central convenience with a traditional Winchester feel, Winchester Royal Hotel puts you close to the old centre and easy onward routes. For a practical stay that’s handy for transport links and works well for families, The Winchester Hotel & Spa is a comfortable option with on-site facilities.

Is the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Worth Visiting?

Yes, particularly if you want an experience that’s active, hands-on, and genuinely entertaining rather than purely educational. It’s one of those places where the day flies by because there’s always something else to try, and the Planetarium adds a “wow” layer that feels special even if you’ve visited other science centres before.

It's also a smart choice for mixed itineraries. If your trip includes historic Winchester, this gives you a modern counterpoint that balances churches, halls, and museums with something lively, interactive, and weather-proof.

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

This is a genuinely family-first attraction: hands-on exhibits, clear visual explanations, and plenty of moments where children can lead the pace rather than being told to stand still and listen. The Planetarium is especially useful for families because it creates a shared highlight that works across ages, even when interests differ.

To make the visit smoother, book your Planetarium time early and use it as your anchor for the day. Before and after that, let children roam between exhibits and shows, and plan a café stop as a built-in reset if energy dips.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

If you’re travelling as a couple, the Science Centre can be a fun “playful” day that breaks up a more traditional sightseeing itinerary. The Planetarium in particular can feel surprisingly atmospheric, and it’s a great excuse to sit back together for something immersive and different.

The key is timing. Go early or choose a quieter session, pick one Planetarium show that genuinely interests you, then keep the rest of the visit light and spontaneous rather than trying to do everything.

Budget Travelers

This can still be a budget-friendly day out if you plan it well, especially by booking ahead and focusing on the included activities (interactive floors and live shows) rather than adding extras. It’s also excellent value in poor weather, when a fully indoor attraction can save a day that might otherwise be written off.

To keep costs under control, bring a refillable water bottle, plan one café stop rather than lots of snacks, and pair the visit with free highlights back in the city later in the day, like riverside walks and the Cathedral precinct streets.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.3 (895)

Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium on Telegraph Way is a hands-on, family-friendly attraction focused on physical sciences and space, with interactive exhibits that engage children and adults; visitors praise the well-curated planetarium shows and special audio‑visual events (recommended extras), friendly staff, a bookstore with books and toys, a café/bar for drinks, and ample parking, noting the site is kept clean and offers a memorable, educational experience.

Nicole G
a week ago
"What an amazing place. We visited the Planetarium to see the Pink Floyd event. It was incredible. If you manage to get tickets to one of theseevents, don't miss the opportunity. The bar/cafeteria was open with choice of beverages. Didn't notice if there was food option as just went for a drink. All the staff were friendly and made it a fabulous experience. We'll be back...."
Daisy Lacey
4 weeks ago
"Fantastic for children and adults can learn a bit too. Don't forget to bring your patience, I saw lots of parents trying to move their children ontothe next exhibit when their child was clearly engaged and learning - join in or find somewhere to sit and relax. Do the planetarium show, it was well worth the £4 each!..."
Sonia Cri igan
2 months ago
"Wonderful time here. My kids aged 10 and 8 absolutely loved it. So much to look at and get stuck into. They particularly liked the space sectiondownstairs. The show is worth the extra £4 . Exciting and educational for everyone and has the wow factor. Car park is free which is really good, felt the tickets were a little on the high side but still enjoyed the experience and would visit again..."

FAQs for Visiting Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

Getting There

It’s at Morn Hill on the outskirts of Winchester, about three miles from the city centre. It’s close enough for a quick bus or taxi ride, but far enough to feel like a separate “day out” destination.
Head to Winchester’s Broadway bus area and take the No. 64 toward Alresford, then walk a short distance from the stop. If you want the quickest option with minimal planning, a taxi from the centre is straightforward.
Arrive at Winchester Station, then connect by bus (via the city centre bus stops) or take a short taxi ride. The journey is quick, so it’s easy to slot into a day without feeling like a trek.
Yes, there’s on-site visitor parking, and driving is convenient if you’re coming from outside Winchester or travelling with younger children. If you’re staying centrally and only visiting for a few hours, the bus can be simpler than retrieving a car later.

Tickets & Entry

Yes, it’s best to book ahead because entry is managed with arrival time slots. Booking early also helps you secure your preferred Planetarium show time.
General admission covers access to the main exhibit floors and the core daily programme on-site. Planetarium sessions usually require an additional ticket, so it’s worth adding one when you book.
It’s designed around family demand, so public opening is focused on weekends and school holidays. Outside those periods, the site can prioritise schools and organised groups.
Children need to be supervised closely throughout the building, and it’s easy to underestimate how quickly time slots for shows fill up. Plan your show times first, then treat everything else as flexible.

Visiting Experience

If you’re tight on time, aim for one Planetarium show plus a focused hour or two on the most hands-on exhibits. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve had a complete experience without trying to cover everything.
Yes, if you want a modern, energetic highlight alongside historic sights. If your one day is already packed with cathedral and medieval stops, it’s best as a half-day swap rather than an “add-on.”
Pair it with central Winchester in the afternoon: a riverside walk, a cathedral-area wander, or a quick heritage stop like the Great Hall. That combination gives you both modern “doing” and classic “seeing” in one day.
Absolutely, because it’s largely indoors and designed for all-weather days. In fact, rainy days can be ideal because you’ll likely feel you’re getting maximum value from a fully indoor programme.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Most classic walking tours focus on the historic city centre, so this is usually a separate stop rather than part of a standard route. It works best as a dedicated half-day trip, then you return to the centre for heritage sightseeing.
A light structure works best: pick your Planetarium show time and one live science show, then explore freely around those anchors. Trying to schedule every minute often makes the day feel rushed.
Choose one Planetarium show, then spend the rest of your time on the most interactive zones rather than trying to read everything. End with a quick café break so the visit feels rounded rather than abrupt.

Photography

Yes, especially for candid “hands-on” moments and the striking architecture outside. The most memorable photos are usually people engaged with exhibits rather than posed shots.
Earlier sessions tend to be calmer, which helps if you want cleaner shots without crowds. If you’re photographing children, the first hour is often best before energy levels peak.
Rules can vary by show and lighting conditions, particularly in the Planetarium. It’s best to check guidance on the day and avoid flash in darker spaces.
The exterior is very distinctive, so a wide shot that includes the building shape and open sky works well. Inside, aim for photos that show scale, colour, and interaction rather than close-ups of labels.

Accessibility & Facilities

It’s a modern visitor attraction and generally set up for accessible use, but specific routes and facilities can matter depending on individual needs. Checking the accessibility information before you go is the best way to avoid surprises.
Yes, with family-friendly facilities that make longer visits comfortable. The café is also useful as a mid-visit break point, especially with children.
Yes, between the café and indoor seating areas, it’s easy to pause without leaving the attraction. This is one of the advantages over more “walk-heavy” city-centre sightseeing.
Yes, it’s built with families in mind, and the hands-on design suits children who need movement and variety. Strollers are typically manageable, but it helps to keep things compact during busy times.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Use the on-site café for a simple break, then keep your main meal for Winchester city centre if you want more choice and atmosphere. That approach also helps you avoid losing exhibit time during peak café rush.
The best food options are generally back in central Winchester, where you can choose between casual cafés and longer sit-down meals. It’s easy to combine a Science Centre morning with a city-centre lunch.

Safety & Timing

It’s a quiet, out-of-town location, so it’s best treated as a daytime attraction rather than an evening hangout. For evening atmosphere, head back into Winchester’s centre where streets are livelier.
Early visits usually feel smoother, with more choice for show times and less crowding around popular exhibits. Later visits can work well too, but it’s worth planning around the programme so you don’t miss the experiences you care about.

Nearby Attractions to the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

The Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Winchester!

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Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Saturday - Sunday: 09:30-17:00; School holidays: Daily: 09:30-17:00.

Monday - Friday (term time): Closed (open for school groups only).

Closed on 24 December - 26 December.

Price:

Standard entry (Adult/Child 3-16): £17.50; Advance (14+ days): £14.00; Under 3: Free; Planetarium show: +£4.

Address: Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Telegraph Way, Winchester, UK
Winchester: 3 km
Official Website

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