June 7, 2018 1.27 pm This story is over 69 months old

UK’s first purpose-built marine observatory in Lincolnshire

There will be exhibitions, an art space and more
A recent photo of the North Sea Observatory. Photo: Lincolnshire County Council

The UK’s first purpose-built marine observatory will open in Lincolnshire later this month.

The brand new North Sea Observatory at Chapel St Leonards, which was built by Gelder Group, will open its doors to the public on Friday, June 22 at 9am.

Entry is free so people can go in and look out on the coast with information and exhibitions on the local area’s rich natural history also available.

There is also an art space, a cafe and public toilets on site.

The observatory will be open all year round as follows:

  • June 22 to July 23 – 9am to 5pm
  • July 24 to September 4 – 9am to 6pm
  • September 5 to October 30 – 9am to 5pm

Winter opening hours are yet to be confirmed.

Executive Member for Economic Development at Lincolnshire County Council, Councillor Colin Davie, said: “This new attraction is something unique to Lincolnshire.  The observatory is the perfect spot for people to enjoy our spectacular coastline and its beautiful wildlife, and there’s plenty for the kids to do too.

“However, this is just one of a series of investments on the coast, which we are confident will help attract new visitors to the area.

“Combined with the nearby outdoor theatre space and the new visitor centre at Gibraltar Point, it will help extend the traditional tourist season, providing a significant boost to the economy.

“It’s a fantastic addition to the county’s ever-growing collection of tourist attractions.”

The project was funded by Lincolnshire County Council, the Coastal Communities Fund, the Arts Council England and RDPE LEADER Coastal Action Zone, with the cost of the building approximately £2million.

Lincolnshire County Council contributed approximately £760k to the project, with the Coastal Communities Fund putting in around £1.14million and Arts Council England in the region of £100k.