Herstmonceux Astronomy Festival 2026
The 22nd Herstmonceux Astronomy Festival takes place this month at the Observatory Science Centre in the grounds of Herstmonceux Castle, former home of the Royal Greenwich Observatory. This celebration of the wonders of astronomy runs from Friday 28th to Sunday 30th August.
With hands-on activities, fascinating talks, and something for all ages, the 3-day festival is the perfect event for families, enthusiasts, and curious newcomers alike. Come for a single day or immerse yourself in the full weekend experience. Stay overnight by camping on-site, or book a room at the Bader Hall accommodation block, near the historic castle.
The festival weekend features nine inspiring talks from leading professional astronomers. We're delighted that LAS committee member Ian Whiteley will introduce the event on Friday. LAS member Doug Edworthy will give a talk titled Don't Light Me Up on Sunday morning, and LAS President Prof Stephen Wilkins will give a talk titled Simulating the Universe on Sunday afternoon.
Please pop by the LAS gazebo and say hello to our friendly team of volunteers.
Find out more about this amazing astronomical event in the heart of East Sussex at www.the-observatory.org/events/astronomy-festival.
About Us
We're a friendly astronomy group based in Lewes, the county town of East Sussex. Whether you're passionate or just curious about astronomy, an expert or complete novice, everyone is welcome. Our activities are designed to suit all levels of interest, knowledge, and experience within the field of astronomy.
Our heritage dates back at least five decades as a small group known as the Lewes Astronomers. Astronomy has made significant strides during that time, yet it remains one of the few scientific disciplines in which amateurs can play a useful role.
Relaunched in 2022 as the Lewes Astronomical Society, this season we've had 165 members and hundreds more supporters on our mailing list. Yet our ethos remains simple: to promote all aspects of astronomy in a friendly and inclusive environment for people living in and around the Lewes area.
Join Us
Our membership season runs for 12 months from 1st September each year. Membership includes free admission to our public talks, which are usually presented by a guest speaker. These meetings are normally held on the first Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Subud Centre in Lewes, BN7 2DS.
We also arrange other events throughout the year, such as stargazing evenings. Our events are a great way to meet amateurs and professionals in the field of astronomy and make new friends.
Join us now to enjoy uninterrupted membership until 31st August 2027. See our membership page for more details.
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Next Event
Landport Residents Association Picnic
Eridge Green, Landport Estate, Lewes BN7 2SY
26th August 2026 at 4:15pm
The LAS will have a stand at the Eridge Green Annual Community Picnic, an event organised by the Landport Residents Association, which starts at 4:15pm and ends at 8pm. Pop by our gazebo and look through our solar scope. Everyone is welcome.
Contact Us
For general enquiries about our society, please send an email to secretary@lewesas.org.uk. Alternatively, you are welcome to contact any of the team members shown on our committee page.
Find Us
Our monthly public meetings are held in the Assembly Hall at the newly-renovated Lewes Subud Centre, East Sussex BN7 2DS (formerly Lewes New School). Entrance is in Talbot Terrace. Municipal car parks are free after 5pm. The Brook Street car park is just a few minutes easy walk from the venue.
Latitude 50.8765N Longitude 0.00835E /// tripled.collide.flattens