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Life Science Centre

4.4
·4k reviews·, United Kingdom

An interactive science village with a planetarium, live shows, and hands-on exhibits for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Life Science Centre - Image 1

Life Science Centre

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An interactive science village with a planetarium, live shows, and hands-on exhibits for all ages.

4.4
(4k reviews)

"Such a fun and inspiring place to spend the day! Perfect for both kids and adults."

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TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and potentially save money by booking your Life Science Centre tickets in advance online.

🚀 Explore the Space Zone

Discover the wonders of space with interactive exhibits and an ISS replica. Great for all ages!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Science Exhibits

Interactive Science Exhibits

Various Zones

Engage with dozens of hands-on exhibits covering forces, gravity, light, sound, and more. Perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows

Planetarium

Journey through the cosmos with immersive shows that explore space, stars, and planets. A must-see for aspiring astronauts.

Live Science Demonstrations

Live Science Demonstrations

Various Stages

Witness exciting and educational live science shows that bring complex concepts to life in an entertaining way.

Winter Ice Rink

Winter Ice Rink

Outdoor Rink

Experience festive fun on the open-air ice rink during the winter months. A popular seasonal attraction for families and friends.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Peak Times

Tickets for the Life Science Centre, especially during school holidays or weekends, can sell out. Booking online in advance is recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better prices. Check for special events like the popular ice rink, which requires separate booking. TikTok

Plan for Interactive Fun

This isn't a 'look but don't touch' kind of place. The Life Science Centre thrives on hands-on exhibits for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Allocate ample time to explore the various zones, including the planetarium and live shows, to fully immerse yourself in the science. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
School holidays, evenings
Why
Special events and twilight sessions
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Buzzing atmosphere, but busier
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Want a different night out? The twilight sessions at Life are perfect for anyone wanting a quirky night out ✨ #newcastle #northeast #thingstodo #weekendplans #datenight
@newcastlegateshead
5.9K likes • 114.6K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and potentially save money by booking your Life Science Centre tickets in advance online. TikTok+1

🚀 Explore the Space Zone

Discover the wonders of space with interactive exhibits and an ISS replica. Great for all ages! TikTokInstagram

Newcastle’s open-air ice rink at Life Science Centre is back for the winter! ❄️ ⛸️✨ Grab your friends, family and a warm coat because tickets are now available, so make sure you book to avoid disappointment! 🙌 📆 Open Sat 9th Nov-Sun 5th Jan ⏰ 9:30am-9:30pm 📍 @Life Science Centre 🎟️ Tickets available on the Life Science Centre website 💰 Ticket prices: £15 Adults, £13.50 Children (10+), £11.50 Chil...
@getintonewcastle
5.8K likes • 88.6K views
Tiny Toon 👶 has a tiny Life Science Centre 🧪 Use the code inside of our unit for 25% off when purchasing tickets online! 🎟️ #TinyToon #tinyhouse #newcastle #explorepage #kidsdayout
scienceatlife
15 likes • 1.3K views

❄️ Ice Rink Fun (Seasonal)

Don't miss the popular outdoor ice rink during winter! Book tickets early as it's a seasonal highlight. TikTok+1

🔬 Hands-On Experiments

Get ready to touch, play, and learn! The centre is packed with interactive exhibits for endless discovery. TikTokReddit

We had a fantastic day trip out to the life science centre the other day. Logan and Caleb had so much fun that they didn’t want to leave. If you’re ever in Newcastle this is definitely a place to visit, they have so many different activities for the children to do including science shows and a Planetarium. #scincecenter #lifesciencecentre #newcastle #placestovisit #placestovistwithkids #newcast...
familylifeinnewcastle
97 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and potentially save money by booking your Life Science Centre tickets in advance online. TikTok+1

🚀 Explore the Space Zone

Discover the wonders of space with interactive exhibits and an ISS replica. Great for all ages! TikTokInstagram

❄️ Ice Rink Fun (Seasonal)

Don't miss the popular outdoor ice rink during winter! Book tickets early as it's a seasonal highlight. TikTok+1

🔬 Hands-On Experiments

Get ready to touch, play, and learn! The centre is packed with interactive exhibits for endless discovery. TikTokReddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Facilities

Features include a soft play area for under 7s and dedicated zones for different age groups. InstagramReddit

💰 Universal Credit Discount

Eligible Universal Credit holders can get heavily discounted tickets for themselves and guests. TikTok

♿ Accessible Skating

The ice rink now accommodates wheelchair users, making it more inclusive for everyone. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Life Science Centre for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that captivate both children and adults. The planetarium shows and live demonstrations are frequently highlighted as educational and entertaining. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mention that certain areas can become crowded during peak times, and the cafe prices are typical for an attraction.

"Such a fun and inspiring place to spend the day! The Life Science Centre is perfect for both kids and adults – interactive exhibitions, hands-on experiments, planetarium shows, and even live science demonstrations. Everything is engaging and easy to understand, making science come alive in the most exciting way. Staff are friendly and passionate, which adds to the experience. Highly recommend for families, curious minds, or anyone looking for a unique day out in Newcastle!"

Vincy Chen

"So much to do! We went with children aged 4, 7 and 11 and there was something for all of them. There's so much to get hands on with including experiments with forces, gravity, balance, light, sound, illusions, memory, spacial awareness and many more. The lab area for 7+ allows them to do structured experiments following step by step instructions on a touch screen. The space area has a fab interactive area for younger children and there's a soft play space for under 7s on the top floor. You can try your hand at controlling NASA style computers, listen to the experiences of real astronauts and find answers to questions such as how you go to the toilet in space. We didn't make it to any of the shows and still could have spent more time there! Highly recommend if you have children with inquisitive minds and busy hands."

Hayley Trunks

"Great place to take kids, my 2yo daughter loved the interactive contraptions. For older kids there's even more to do.
The planetarium show was great! Highly recommend."

João Daher Neto

What People Like

Highly interactive exhibits
Engaging for all ages
Educational planetarium shows

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Cafe prices typical

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Life Science Centre is conveniently located in Newcastle city centre, easily accessible by public transport. It's a short walk from Newcastle Central Station, and numerous bus routes stop nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the vicinity, though they can be pricey. TikTok+1

While the Life Science Centre doesn't have its own dedicated car park, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance. It's advisable to check parking availability and prices in advance, especially during peak times. TikTok

Absolutely! The Life Science Centre is well-served by public transport. Newcastle Central Station is a short walk away, and many bus routes stop close to the venue, making it easy to reach via train or bus. TikTok

Yes, the Life Science Centre is designed to be accessible. They offer accessible exhibits and facilities, and even have provisions for wheelchair users on the ice rink during winter. TikTok

From Newcastle Central Station, it's a straightforward walk to the Life Science Centre, taking approximately 5-10 minutes. Simply head towards the city centre, and you'll find it easily. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but booking online in advance is often cheaper. They offer various ticket types, including family packages and special discounts. Keep an eye out for promotional offers like the Universal Credit ticket. TikTokInstagram

It's highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially for weekends, school holidays, or special events like the ice rink, to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment. TikTok+1

Yes, the Life Science Centre offers various discounts, including a significant £3 Universal Credit ticket for eligible individuals and their guests. They also have family ticket options. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, especially for seasonal events like the ice rink. It's best to check the official Life Science Centre website for the most up-to-date opening times for both the centre and any special attractions. TikTok

While tickets may be available at the door, it's strongly advised to book online in advance to ensure availability, especially during busy periods. This also helps you take advantage of any online booking discounts. TikTok

🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience

The centre boasts interactive science exhibits, a planetarium with immersive shows, live science demonstrations, and a dedicated space zone. During winter, an outdoor ice rink is also a major draw. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, the Life Science Centre is very family-friendly. There's a dedicated soft play area for under 7s, and many interactive exhibits are designed for younger children to enjoy. InstagramReddit

They offer engaging live science shows that explain scientific principles in a fun and accessible way. The planetarium also screens a variety of shows about space and astronomy. Instagram+1

Most visitors find that a full day is needed to explore everything, especially if you plan to see a planetarium show and participate in the hands-on activities. You could easily spend 3-5 hours or more. Reddit

The Life Science Centre frequently hosts special events, including seasonal activities like the ice rink, themed nights, and workshops. Check their website for the latest event schedule. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located within the Life Science Centre that offers a range of food and drink options, including snacks, light meals, and beverages. Instagram

Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks purchased at the on-site cafe. However, it's always a good idea to check their specific policy regarding outside food, especially for very young children. Instagram

The cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, pastries, hot meals, and drinks suitable for families and individuals. It's a convenient option for refueling during your visit. Instagram

While specific menus can change, most cafes in such venues aim to cater to various dietary needs. It's advisable to inquire directly at the cafe about their current vegetarian and vegan offerings. Instagram

Prices at the cafe are generally in line with typical attraction pricing. It offers convenience, but for budget-conscious visitors, exploring nearby eateries in Newcastle city centre might be an alternative. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Life Science Centre. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas or during shows to avoid disturbing others or damaging equipment. TikTok

Absolutely! The interactive exhibits, the planetarium dome, and the vibrant displays offer numerous visually interesting opportunities for photos. The seasonal ice rink also provides festive backdrops. TikTokInstagram

No, drone photography is strictly prohibited within the Life Science Centre and its grounds for safety and privacy reasons. TikTok

The Space Zone, particularly the ISS replica, the colourful interactive exhibits, and the planetarium during a show (if permitted) are great spots. The ice rink during winter is also very photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Yes, using your smartphone for photos and short videos is perfectly fine for personal memories and sharing on social media. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Life Science Centre is a fantastic destination for families with young children. They offer a dedicated soft play area for under 7s, ensuring little ones have a safe and fun space to explore. Instagram Many of the interactive exhibits are designed with younger visitors in mind, allowing them to touch, play, and learn through simple contraptions and colourful displays. Reddit The Space Zone also has an interactive area suitable for younger children. Reddit Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to make the most of the space without overwhelming crowds.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the Life Science Centre offers excellent value, especially with their £3 Universal Credit ticket for eligible individuals and up to five guests. TikTok This makes a full day of science exploration incredibly affordable. Additionally, under 5s often go free, making it even more economical for families. Instagram While there's an on-site cafe, bringing your own snacks or planning a meal at a more budget-friendly spot in the city centre can help save costs. Instagram

👫 Couples & Date Nights

The Life Science Centre offers a unique and engaging experience for couples looking for something different. Their Twilight Sessions provide a more relaxed, adult-focused atmosphere for exploring the exhibits after hours, making it a perfect quirky date night option. TikTok The interactive nature of the centre encourages conversation and shared discovery, moving beyond typical dinner-and-a-movie dates. The seasonal ice rink also offers a fun and festive activity for couples during the winter months. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Winter Ice Rink Experience

The Life Science Centre's outdoor ice rink is a highly anticipated seasonal attraction, typically running from November to January. It transforms the area into a festive wonderland, perfect for families and friends looking for a classic winter activity. TikTok+1 Visitors can enjoy skating sessions, and the centre often hosts themed nights, such as 'Skate it Off' Taylor Swift nights, silent discos on ice, and karaoke on ice, adding a unique twist to the experience. TikTok

Accessibility is a key focus, with the rink now accommodating wheelchair users and allowing carers to skate alongside them, making it a more inclusive event. TikTok Booking tickets in advance is crucial, as sessions can sell out quickly. Remember to dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for a comfortable and enjoyable skating experience. TikTok+1

Interactive Learning for All Ages

The core of the Life Science Centre's appeal lies in its extensive collection of interactive exhibits designed to make science engaging and accessible for everyone. From toddlers to adults, there are activities that cater to different learning styles and interests. Younger children can enjoy a dedicated soft play area and simpler interactive contraptions, while older children and adults can delve into more complex experiments in areas like the 'Experiment' zone, which allows for structured, step-by-step learning on touch screens. InstagramReddit

Key themes explored include forces, gravity, light, sound, illusions, and memory. Visitors can try their hand at controlling NASA-style computers, learn about the challenges of living in space, and even build their own simple machines. TikTokInstagramReddit The centre emphasizes 'real-life science' and 'experiential learning,' ensuring that visitors don't just observe but actively participate in scientific discovery. TikTokInstagram

The Wonders of the Planetarium

The Life Science Centre's planetarium offers an immersive journey into the cosmos. Visitors can experience a variety of shows that explore the vastness of space, the mysteries of the universe, and the latest discoveries in astronomy. These shows are designed to be both educational and awe-inspiring, making complex astronomical concepts understandable and visually captivating. Instagram+1

Shows often cover topics like star gazing, planetary exploration, and the history of space travel. The dome projection creates a truly enveloping experience, making you feel as though you're floating amongst the stars. InstagramReddit It's a highly recommended part of any visit, providing a unique perspective on our place in the universe and sparking curiosity about science and exploration. Reddit

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