Hesketh Park Observatory in Southport will open its doors for free next month as part of Heritage Open Days, a national festival running from September 11 to 20. The 125-year-old building, installed in 1901, will welcome visitors on Sunday, September 13, Wednesday, September 16, and Sunday, September 20, from 11am until 4pm.
Historic Observatory and Telescope
The mid-Victorian wooden observatory contains a 6-inch aperture Cooke telescope manufactured in 1860, along with its original clockwork drive. It is a Grade II listed building that belonged to amateur astronomer Joseph Baxendell, who was also Southport Corporation’s official meteorologist. The observatory sits atop a specially-built brick structure in the historic Grade II listed Hesketh Park, offering visitors a unique heritage setting to learn about astronomy and Baxendell's work.
Festival Details and Park Attractions
Heritage Open Days is organised by the National Trust and supported by Postcode Lottery players, with thousands of free events and experiences across England. Hesketh Park, one of Southport's largest parks dating back to 1868, features a mini golf course, cafe, large play area, and trails. It is about a 25-minute walk from the town's train station or a 45-minute drive from Liverpool city centre, with on-street parking available outside the gates.
Quotes and Participation
Heritage Open Days Marketing and Projects Manager Liam Montgomery said: "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. I’m so excited to see our community uncover new stories and delve deeper than ever before."
Head of Charities at Postcode Lottery Laura Chow said: "It is fantastic that Postcode Lottery players have been supporting Heritage Open Days for 14 years, allowing millions of people to explore England’s rich heritage for free. This year’s theme of ‘Everyday Histories’ shines a light on the workers who helped shape the country we know today and are often missing from history books. Through an exciting programme of special events, experiences and activities, visitors will have the chance to discover more about these unsung heroes and their extraordinary lives."
Merseyside Participation
Every Heritage Open Days event is free, including access to many sites that usually charge admission. In Merseyside, 150 sites are taking part this year, with highlights including Southport's Lost Street and Strawberry Field. Further information on each activity is available online.
