Mills Observatory
Britain's first purpose-built public observatory, opened in 1935 on Balgay Hill in Dundee; free stargazing evenings from October to March.
Mills Observatory stands among the trees on top of Balgay Hill in Dundee, a handsome sandstone building crowned with a white dome, and it was the first purpose-built public astronomical observatory in Britain when it opened in 1935.
It has been inspiring stargazers ever since, and entry, including the use of the telescopes, is free.
Step inside the dome and, when the sky is clear, the team will guide you to the Moon, the planets and the brighter stars and galaxies through its telescopes, with exhibits on astronomy and space around the building and planetarium shows, which carry a small charge. There are talks, family events and viewing nights through the season. The observatory opens in the dark months, from 1 October to the end of March: weekday evenings from 4pm to 10pm and Saturdays from 6.30pm, closed on Sundays. It is closed from April to September, apart from special events. There is a small car park at the door.
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Open 1 October to March: Monday to Friday 4pm to 10pm, Saturday 6.30pm to 10pm, closed Sunday.
Closed April to September. Free; planetarium shows carry a small charge.
- Mon to Fri
- 16:00 to 22:00, Oct to Mar.
- Sat
- 18:30 to 22:00.
- Apr to Sep
- Closed.
Opening hours
- Monday
- 4pm–10pm
- Tuesday
- 4pm–10pm
- Wednesday
- 4pm–10pm
- Thursday
- 4pm–10pm
- Friday
- 4pm–10pm
- Saturday
- 6.30pm–10pm
- Sunday
- Closed
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Add your reviewBalgay Hill, Dundee.
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Places to stay near the observatory, and when each is next free.
Bracken Treehouse at Airdit- Sleeps 2
- In Balmullo
- 7 miles from the Mills
Fairygreen Cottage- Sleeps 4
- In Kinrossie
- 10 miles from the Mills
The Glasshouse- Sleeps 6
- In Newburgh
- 11 miles from the Mills
The Arches- Sleeps 2
- In Newburgh
- 11 miles from the Mills
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