Catalyst Science Discovery Centre & Museum | Widnes
It’s been such a long time since I shared a day out but yesterday we went along to the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre & Museum. Based by the River Mersey in Widnes, this is a great day out for families. The hands on nature of the centre means that it makes science and other STEM subjects accessible and interesting for everyone, whether you are a natural science lover or not.
What is the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre & Museum?
The quick answer is a fabulous hands on science discovery centre. The ground floor is packed full of interactive exhibits and experiments for kids to engage with. This floor was the real highlight for us as the kids loved really exploring this area.
Upstairs on the first floor are re-constructed scenes around the history of chemistry and then on the 4th floor is a gorgeous observatory offering stunning views across the area. There are even more hand on exhibits for you to enjoy against the beautiful backdrop of Widnes and beyond.
A real highlight for me was this rather amazing tree that is starting to grow. This tree was planted from a pip from Newton’s tree, which in itself is great. But these particular pips actually made it all the way to space, as when Tim Peake went to the International Space Station he took some pips with him.
The Catalyst Science Discovery Centre & Museum is one of of the recipients of those pips which has been planted just outside the centre. It’s still a sapling but it will be exciting to see this rather special tree grow on return visits.
Catalyst Workshops
On the weekend we went, there was a Planetarium Show which is an exciting 45 minute journey into space in a great inflatable planetarium. We explored the night sky and learnt to identify constellations. We enjoyed a day here on earth sped up to less than a minute before heading out into space through the the show ‘We are Aliens’, narrated by Rupert Grint. Both kids and adults loved laying back and watching the show unfold on the roof as it explores how our understanding of life on Earth guides humans on the hunt for alien life.
Where is the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre & Museum?
You can find the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre & Museum at:
Mersey Road, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 0DF.
There is a large car park on site that is free to use. Please note though that if you are coming over the Mersey Gateway Bridge or the Silver Jubilee Bridge toll bridges, that you need to pay your toll online within 24 hours. This can be done online at www.merseyflow.co.uk
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