National Space Centre Leicester - a large building with a blue roof on a cloudy day
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National Space Centre Leicester

4.5
·10k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore rockets, spacecraft, and the cosmos at the UK's largest planetarium. An interactive journey through space science for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends & School Holidays

Special events and shows

CrowdHigh
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National Space Centre Leicester - a large building with a blue roof on a cloudy day

National Space Centre Leicester

Best Time

Weekends & School Holidays

Special events and shows

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore rockets, spacecraft, and the cosmos at the UK's largest planetarium. An interactive journey through space science for all ages.

4.5
(10k reviews)

"The planetarium is incredible! A great day out and a midlands great attraction."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚀 Book Online for Annual Pass

Booking tickets online automatically upgrades you to a FREE Annual Pass!

⭐ Don't Miss Planetarium Shows

Choose and book your planetarium show time when you book tickets.

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 10,449 reviews

Type

Planetarium

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

UK's Largest Planetarium

UK's Largest Planetarium

Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium

Experience breathtaking cosmic journeys in the UK's largest domed planetarium. Stunning visuals and sound immerse you in the universe.

TikTok
Iconic Rockets & Spacecraft

Iconic Rockets & Spacecraft

Launch Pad Gallery

Stand beneath towering rockets and explore real spacecraft, including a piece of the Moon. A truly awe-inspiring display.

TikTok
Interactive Science Exhibits

Interactive Science Exhibits

Various Galleries

Engage with hands-on exhibits that make space science fun and accessible for all ages. Learn through play and discovery.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Annual Pass Upgrade

Booking your tickets online in advance automatically upgrades you to a FREE Annual Pass! This means you can return as many times as you like within a year, making it a fantastic value for repeat visits and exploring different planetarium shows. TikTok

Planetarium Show is a Must-See

Don't miss the planetarium show – it's often highlighted as a stunning and immersive experience, perfect for all ages. Choose your show and time when booking to secure your spot. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekends & School Holidays
Why
Special events and shows
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon Planetarium Shows
Why
Immersive cosmic experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

follow the rockets and you'll find... not just a museum but a science and discovery centre with rockets, space suits, a piece of the moon, hands on activities and the UK's largest planetarium #thingstodo #leicester #dayout
@spacecentre
15.2K likes • 291.8K views

🚀 Book Online for Annual Pass

Booking tickets online automatically upgrades you to a FREE Annual Pass! TikTok

⭐ Don't Miss Planetarium Shows

Choose and book your planetarium show time when you book tickets. TikTokReddit

3 top tips for visiting the National Space Centre 1. Book online in advance - You are automatically upgraded to a FREE Annual Pass 2. Choose a planetarium show and time when you book 3. Check out the gallery information screens - See all the free activities included in your ticket #leicester #thingstodoleicester #easter #schoolholiday #dayout
@spacecentre
5.4K likes • 140.8K views
William's visit to the National Space Centre in Leicester had its challenges, but altogether we had a nice time #autism #autismdad #autismfamily #space #spacecentre #nationalspacecentre #leicester #rocket #sensory
@theautismadventure
4.1K likes • 49.4K views

⏰ Allow 3-4 Hours Minimum

You could easily spend a full day, but aim for at least 3-4 hours. TikTok

🧺 Picnic Friendly

You can bring your own picnic to enjoy, or use the Rocket Cafe. Reddit

Sharing William's visit to the National Space Centre in Leicester #autism #autismdad #autismfamily #space #nationalspacecentre #leicester @National Space Centre #sensory #visit #busy #queuing
@theautismadventure
1K likes • 14.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚀 Book Online for Annual Pass

Booking tickets online automatically upgrades you to a FREE Annual Pass! TikTok

⭐ Don't Miss Planetarium Shows

Choose and book your planetarium show time when you book tickets. TikTokReddit

⏰ Allow 3-4 Hours Minimum

You could easily spend a full day, but aim for at least 3-4 hours. TikTok

🧺 Picnic Friendly

You can bring your own picnic to enjoy, or use the Rocket Cafe. Reddit

♿ Accessible Facilities

The centre is accessible with lifts, accessible toilets, and changing spaces. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the National Space Centre for its impressive exhibits, particularly the towering rockets and the stunning planetarium shows. The interactive nature of the displays makes it engaging for all ages, and the value of the free annual pass upgrade is a significant plus. However, some guests have noted that the on-site cafe could improve its offerings and cleanliness.

"This visit has been a long time coming, after trudging the M1 for three decades and seeing the brown sign for the National Space Centre I finally found time to visit, and it was no disappointment in the slightest. Many facts and exhibits tie into loads of classic films, articles and milestones from over the years and lots for the kids to learn about along the way. A great day out and at the moment (summer 2025) the artists elephants are all around Leicester. The planetarium is incredible! Please go and enjoy one of the midlands great attractions that you might have missed."

Tom Beardsell

"I been there for first time, lovely place with many different views. I can see there is a plenty space for car parking. Amazing location with foods, and gifts. I was so happy and excited to be there and to be part of this. I will share few videos and photos from this amazing place. Highly recommend."

Prosmart Study (Pro Smart Study Edu)

"Came here to watch Pink Floyd Dark side of the Moon in the planetarium. The show was one of the best I've ever seen. Amazing atmosphere in the planetarium. The visuals and sounds were perfect.
We also had a good look around the space centre itself. Properly cool place with absolutely loads for kids and adults to do and see. Very educational and we will be bringing our kids to have a look.
Thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and will definitely do it again"

Stu Burton

What People Like

Impressive rockets and spacecraft
Stunning planetarium shows
Interactive and educational exhibits

What People Dislike

Cafe food and cleanliness

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Space Centre is located in Leicester, easily accessible by car. There is plenty of space for car parking available. Reddit It's also reachable via public transport, with local bus routes serving the area. If coming from Birmingham, it's a manageable drive. Reddit

Yes, there is ample car parking available at the National Space Centre, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, public transport options are available to reach the National Space Centre. Check local bus timetables for routes serving the Leicester area. Reddit

Absolutely! The National Space Centre is accessible, featuring lifts, accessible toilets, and changing spaces for both children and adults. Reddit

If you're coming from cities like Birmingham, driving is a popular option. Alternatively, train services connect major cities to Leicester, followed by a local bus or taxi to the centre. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be a bit pricey, but they grant you a whole year of access, making it ideal for families. Booking online in advance is recommended as it automatically upgrades your ticket to a FREE Annual Pass. TikTokReddit

It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance. This not only secures your entry but also automatically upgrades your ticket to a FREE Annual Pass. TikTok

When you book your tickets online, you're automatically upgraded to a FREE Annual Pass, allowing you to visit the National Space Centre multiple times within a year. TikTok

While specific discounts aren't always advertised, booking online for the Annual Pass upgrade offers significant value for repeat visits. Keep an eye out for special event pricing. TikTokReddit

Opening hours can vary, especially during school holidays and special events. It's best to check the official National Space Centre website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit. TikTok

🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience

You can explore iconic rockets, real spacecraft, a piece of the Moon, and engage with interactive science exhibits. The UK's largest planetarium offers immersive shows. TikTok+1

Yes, one chosen planetarium show is typically included in your ticket. It's highly recommended to book your show time in advance when purchasing your tickets. TikTokReddit

Visitors often recommend spending at least 3-4 hours, but you could easily make a full day of it, especially if you plan to see multiple planetarium shows. TikTok

Absolutely! The centre is packed with hands-on exhibits, interactive zones, and educational games designed to keep children (and adults!) entertained and learning for hours. TikTokReddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the National Space Centre. It's a visually stimulating place, perfect for capturing memories of rockets, exhibits, and the planetarium. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Rocket Cafe offers a simple menu. You also have the option to bring your own picnic to enjoy during your visit. Reddit

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy at the National Space Centre. Reddit

Reviews for the cafe are mixed. While the staff are friendly, some visitors have noted a lack of choice and issues with the cleanliness of eating areas. Reddit

The cafe offers a simple menu, but specific dietary options like vegetarian or vegan choices are not detailed in reviews. It's advisable to check on arrival or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

Yes, there is a gift shop that offers a great collection of toys and interesting gifts specific to space exploration. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The towering rockets in the Launch Pad Gallery, the immersive planetarium dome, and the interactive exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities. TikTok+1

Generally, photography is discouraged during the planetarium shows to avoid distracting other visitors and to maintain the immersive experience. Check for specific signage. TikTok

While general photography is allowed, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas or during shows. TikTok

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, especially for the planetarium. A smartphone with a decent camera will also capture great shots of the exhibits. TikTok

Yes, the vibrant exhibits, the scale of the rockets, and the unique planetarium dome make for very 'Instagrammable' moments. TikTok+1

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