Grassholme
Observatory
A wonderful visitor attraction under the dark starry skies of County Durham
The Grassholme Observatory was developed in partnership with Northumbrian Water.
Settled on the grassy slopes of the Grassholme reservoir in County Durham near the popular tourist destination of Middleton in Teesdale and the world-renowned High Force waterfall. The observatory was set up in 2020 amid the CV-19 crisis so it was forced to delay its entrance, until August 2021 when it officially opened its doors.
Grassholme's mission is simple, to communicate the science of astronomy and to provide a holistic environment. It seems to be working, as we are now experiencing a growth in visitor numbers. We host all types of demographics from scout groups to family birthdays and maybe even the odd silent disco!
We have a purpose-built classroom with fresh coffee and hot chocolate available, running hot water, and clean toilet facilities, ample parking with overnight stays welcome.
With an impressive array of telescopes and an HD projection system, this place has it all.
It's often said here that we have a disproportionate amount of clear skies here, we are truly blessed.