Historic 125-Year-Old Observatory Opens Free to Public in Heritage Festival
A historic 125-year-old observatory in Southport, England, will open its doors free of charge next month as part of the national Heritage Open Days festival. The Hesketh Park Observatory, a Grade II listed building, will welcome visitors on three separate days in September, offering a rare glimpse into Victorian-era astronomy.
What is the Hesketh Park Observatory?
The mid-Victorian wooden observatory contains a 6-inch aperture Cooke telescope manufactured in 1869, complete with its original clockwork drive. The instrument belonged to Joseph Baxendell, a prominent amateur astronomer who served as Southport Corporation's official meteorologist. The observatory was installed in its current position atop a specially-built brick structure in 1901.
The building is situated within the historic Grade II listed Hesketh Park, which dates back to 1868 and remains one of Southport's largest public parks. Together, the observatory and park represent a unique heritage setting where visitors can learn about astronomy and the life of Joseph Baxendell.
When can visitors tour the observatory?
As part of Heritage Open Days, the observatory will be open to the public on Sunday, September 13, Wednesday, September 16, and Sunday, September 20, from 11am until 4pm. Admission is free on all occasions.
Beyond the observatory, Hesketh Park offers visitors a mini golf course, cafe, large play area, and family-friendly trails throughout the year. The park is located approximately a 25-minute walk from Southport's train station or a 45-minute drive from Liverpool city centre, with on-street parking available just outside the gates.
What is Heritage Open Days?
Heritage Open Days is a national festival organised by the National Trust and supported by Postcode Lottery players. Running from September 11 to 20, the festival features thousands of free events and experiences across England, from cold war bunkers to lighthouses, canal boats, and collieries.
Founded in 1994, the festival last year involved over 2,500 organisers and 44,200 volunteers across 5,879 events. This year's theme, 'Everyday Histories', aims to highlight the stories of ordinary workers who shaped the nation but are often absent from history books.
“There are so many brilliant stories that are celebrated through the festival each year, but this year I can't wait to see all those everyday hidden-in-plain-sight stories centre stage in our programming through the 'Everyday Histories' theme,” said Liam Montgomery, Heritage Open Days Marketing and Projects Manager.
Which other Merseyside sites are participating?
In total, 150 sites across Merseyside are taking part in this year's festival, including Southport's Lost Street and Strawberry Field. Every Heritage Open Days event is free, including access to many sites that normally charge admission.
Laura Chow, Head of Charities at Postcode Lottery, noted that players have supported Heritage Open Days for 14 years, “allowing millions of people to explore England's rich heritage for free.”
Further information on each activity is available online.