Visitor FAQs

No such thing as a silly question!

Visitor FAQs

What will I be able to do?
There’s lots to do at Jodrell Bank! Take a look at our out-of-the-world events programme and see what’s on for you and all of the family to enjoy… You can also explore our indoor exhibition spaces including our new permanent exhibition about the history of Jodrell Bank in the First Light Pavilion. You can also see our Clockwork Orrery (a working model of the Solar System) in the Planet Pavilion and discover our science exhibition in the Space Pavilion. There are outdoor exhibits too including two guided pathways and our Whispering Dishes. On top of all this, you can experience our Space Dome, and explore our extensive grounds. We also have two cafes and a gift shop.

Can I see a map of the site?
Yes, you can download a site map here

When are you open?

Tuesday-Sunday 10am – 5pm with last admission at 3.30pm

Can I just visit the Café?

When Planet café is open, everyone is welcome to stop by to refuel.

If Planet café is closed just see our friendly Visitor Services team in the giftshop who will give you a pass to access our café in the First Light Pavilion.

Can I bring a packed lunch?
Yes. Our café tables are reserved for café customers, but do feel free to tuck into your packed lunch in one of our indoor picnic areas.

How do I book tickets?
You can book tickets online here…

I have another question about tickets.
Check out our ticketing FAQs here…

Can I book a school trip?
Yes, find out more about this here…

Can I bring a group?
Yes, we welcome group bookings and you can find out more about this here…

Where is Jodrell Bank?
You can find details of our location and directions here…

I have access needs, what can I do to ensure my visit goes smoothly?
You can read our access information here or contact us in advance if you have specific needs

Who is counted as a concession?

  • A concession means a senior citizen or student
  • A senior citizen is aged 65 years and over
  • A student means an adult or senior who holds any type of valid photographic identity card showing that they are a student (part or full time)

Is there a car parking charge?
No, parking is all included and there are no additional parking charges on site.

Can I bring a dog?
Only accredited assistance dogs are permitted on the Jodrell Bank site.

Can children be unaccompanied?
Children under the age of 18 should not be left unaccompanied during their visit.

Do I have to pay to visit the Arboretum?
Yes, you need to pay for general admission to explore our 35 acres of grounds.

Do I have to turn my phone off?
We ask that you switch it to airplane mode. Phones can cause interference with radio telescopes.

Do you accept cash on-site?
We accept card payments only, other than in our gift shop.

Do you have storage facilities for visitors?

Currently we do not have any lockers or provisions for visitors to store their belongings.

Can I bring a segway or other wheeled vehicle?

In order to protect the safety of people and our scientific work we do not allow vehicles or remote-controlled devices on site. This includes hoverboards, segways, skateboards, cycles, scooters and ride-on toys etc

Can I use a drone?

There is strictly no use of unmanned aircraft such as drones (used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce) or model aircraft anywhere on or near to the Jodrell Bank site without prior arrangement from management.

Do you have CCTV on site?

Yes we do, and you can view our CCTV policy here.

I have another question
Get in touch, we’ll be happy to help