Visit Winchester Science Centre

The perfect thing to do in Winchester

Get hands on with science and nature on an interactive family adventure, perfect for children age three to 12 years old and their families. 

You’re never too young or old to learn something new and, with so much to discover across two floors of interactive exhibits, there’ll be something to astound, amaze and excite all ages.  Climb inside a giant guitar. Explore the acoustic rocket. And even learn some British Sign Language. On the lower floor blast off on a journey through Explorer:Space. Discover more about what it’s like to live and work in space in our interactive space zone.

Take a break from all the action in The Planetarium with the return of the ultimate family summer journey, Solar System Adventure, a live presenter-led show. Or be wowed by the colourful visuals of We Are Stars, a subtitled film show that will take families on an adventure through space and time.*

*Please note, the Planetarium is an additional £4 cost

The perfect thing to do in Winchester

Finding exciting and engaging things to do this summer in Winchester doesn’t need to be a slog. Visit Winchester Science Centre for an educational adventure like no other. With interactive events in Winchester and mind blowing science experiences, there is something to spark curiosity in every child. 

Step into the epic Planetarium to watch exciting presenter-led or fun subtitled film shows, enjoy a live science show filled with awesome experiments and experience huge demos. Finish up your day of exploration with a visit to the cafes where you will find a delicious selection of meals, snacks and drinks.

What's on?

The Lunar Experience (until 19th April)

Step into Lunar and uncover the mysteries of Earth’s closest neighbour! Guided by our Inspirers, your journey begins with a warm welcome beneath a glowing Moon. Explore how our lunar companion was born from a colossal cosmic collision, discover its sparkling surface, and learn how its gravity shapes life on Earth.

Watch as sunlight transforms the Moon through its phases, and see how eclipses turn it a deep copper red. Then, drift into the calm of The Moon’s Mystical Cloak of Fire and Ice, a story that blends science and wonder, inviting you to imagine life on a world of extremes.

Pause, reflect, and gaze upward.
What does the Moon mean to you?

Solar System Adventure - live Planetarium show

Ready to blast off into the Solar System for the ultimate family adventure? We've got hundreds of moons, eight planets, five dwarf planets and one sun to explore.  Where will the adventure take you?
Solar System Adventure is a presenter-led live show that is a perfect introduction to the stars and planets. It's great for the whole family. 

You're invited on an epic Solar System Adventure. Your magical journey all starts right here on planet Earth, underneath the blanket of stars that make up the night sky. This is your big chance to discover the constellations above you. You'll even get to do some star spotting.

Don't relax for too long though – you'll soon be whisked off into orbit. Once you're out in space you'll experience the awesome scale of the Solar System.  All the time an expert presenter will explore the wonders above us and reveal some amazing facts.

We Are Stars

We Are Stars is a subtitled film show that is filled with colourful characters and animations. It’s great for the whole family.

Is it true that we are all made of stars? Join the Time Master to find out. Step inside the time tent and be whisked 13.8 billion years into the past. Come on a journey from the Big Bang to modern day and discover the secrets of our cosmic chemistry. Experience the universe like never before as you follow the formation of hydrogen atoms, the synthesis of carbon and the evolution of life from the very first cells.

Join Hollywood star, Andy Serkis, as the Time Master in this award winning planetarium film. The lights and sounds of the Victorian fairground style setting creates a magical show that's perfect for younger audiences. While older children will learn more about atoms, nuclear fusion in stars, formation of asteroids and humanity's current understanding of where everything, including us, came from. 

From 27th March 2026

Ted's Space Adventure 

Join Ted the bear and his friend Plant on a playful journey through our Solar System in this fun and educational fulldome planetarium show. Through song, humour and discovery, little explorers will travel from planet to planet and learn what makes Earth so special.

This 20-minute show features stunning set visuals with live narration from one of our Inspirers, making every experience a little unique. There’s plenty of audience participation and immersive moments along the way.

Recommended for families with children aged 3–6, though all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Please note this is a relaxed show — chatting and noise from the audience is welcome.

A Skyful of Wonder

Discover what you’ll be able to see in the sky on the night of your visit in this calm and relaxing fulldome planetarium experience.

Presented live by one of our Inspirers, this unique show changes each day to reflect the celestial objects visible on the date of your visit. From constellations to planets, you’ll uncover the stories and science behind the wonders above and gain the knowledge you need to spot them for yourself in the real night sky.

Designed with a very gentle narration style and minimal fulldome movement, this 30-minute show is ideal for those who may feel overstimulated by more action-packed experiences.

Though this show’s atmosphere naturally encourages quiet, it is not a silent show, the audience can chat to each other/make noise as they need. 

Accessibility information for The Planetarium 

The Planetarium is accessible so everyone can have a special experience here. Every show is relaxed with quiet and calm presentations. It's not super dark and you can move around, go out and come back in if you like. If you have a wheelchair, we have spaces for you to sit with seats for your family and friends. The stairs have lights to make them easy to see. Ear defenders will be available to borrow, simply ask a member of staff before the show begins.