Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

What You'll Find

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is a brilliant spot for little ones who love anything to do with space, rockets and planets. And there's actually so much more here than just the famous dome shows!

The big attraction is the Digital Theatre, where you can sit back and watch the stars, planets and galaxies come to life all around you on the huge domed ceiling. They have different shows for different ages, including shorter shows specially designed for under 5s, so even younger children can enjoy their first little trip into space.

Before or after your show, there's a whole exhibition area to explore, with plenty of hands-on activities. The kids can create their own solar system in the Stellar Playground, discover black holes, explore the planets and even touch a real meteorite! There's also a sensory room with different lights, sounds and textures, which is a lovely addition for children who enjoy sensory play.

And don't forget about the outside! The Astropark is a lovely area to explore, with walking paths, woodland and large models of the planets dotted around the grounds. You can follow the Solar System trail, discover just how far apart the planets really are and have a look at the historic Observatory buildings and telescope domes from outside.

There's even an augmented reality trail called Cosmo, Lost in Space, which takes younger children on a little adventure around the grounds using the AOP Look Around app.

The Planetarium also runs special workshops, rocket-making activities and seasonal events throughout the year, so it's always worth checking what's happening before you visit.

There's a café on site too, handy for a coffee and a little treat after all that exploring.

You could easily spend a couple of hours here between the dome show, exhibitions and Astropark. It's a great one for curious wee minds, and you definitely don't need to know anything about space beforehand!

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Watching stars and planets appear all around them during a dome show
• ✓Creating their own solar system in the interactive Stellar Playground
• ✓Touching a real meteorite from outer space
• ✓Exploring the sensory room with its lights, sounds and textures
• ✓Following the outdoor Astropark trails and spotting the planets

Before You Visit

Dome shows need to be booked in advance, and there are different shows for different age groups. The under-5s shows are shorter and don't get quite as dark as the regular shows.

A dome show ticket includes access to the exhibition area and sensory room. Exhibition-only tickets are also available if you'd rather skip the show.

The Observatory itself is a working research centre and isn't normally open for general visits. Special tours are available on selected dates.

The Astropark grounds are free to explore, even without a Planetarium ticket.

Some dome shows can be quite dark and loud. The venue also offers occasional quieter sessions with reduced sound and smaller audiences.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐If you're visiting with toddlers, look out for the special under-5s dome shows. They're a great introduction to the Planetarium.
• ⭐Arrive at least 15 minutes before your booked show. Late entry isn't permitted once it begins.
• ⭐Allow around 2–3 hours if you want to enjoy the dome show, interactive exhibitions and a walk around the Astropark.
• ⭐Download the free AOP Look Around app before visiting if you'd like to try the outdoor Cosmo, Lost in Space trail.
• ⭐Check the events calendar for rocket-making workshops, seasonal activities and special family events.