Event
Children’s tour of Leiden’s Old Observatory
Children aged 8–13 explore historic telescope domes on Friday 7 August and experience how astronomers worked. Advance booking is required.
7 August 2026
This special summer tour takes children into the historic telescope domes of Leiden’s Old Observatory. They learn how telescopes work and may sit in the astronomer’s chair and use the observation ladder.
Practical information
What will children do?
A guide explains what an observatory is, how the historic telescope works and how it was moved. Children may use the ladder and sit in the astronomer’s chair. Looking through the telescope at the sky is not part of the tour.
The tour ends at Plants & Planets, where children can continue with a free activity trail.
Who will enjoy it?
Best for curious children aged 8 to 13 who enjoy space, science, technology or unusual historic buildings. It also suits parents adding a short educational activity to a botanical-garden visit.
Less suitable for younger children or visitors mainly expecting live stargazing.
Is it worth it?
Yes, especially for children already interested in astronomy. The tour opens up historic domes that are not fully explained during a standard garden visit. The Hortus and free trail make the outing more substantial.
Separate garden admission is required and the tour lasts 45 minutes, so allow extra time for the garden and exhibition.
Practical tips
- Arrive ten minutes early at the Plants & Planets visitor centre.
- Accompanying adults also need a tour ticket.
- No English or German session is advertised; expect Dutch.
- Ask about access in advance if the historic dome or ladder may be difficult.
Tickets and official information
Advance booking is required. Check the official page for availability and purchase separate Hortus admission where necessary.
Explore more
Place8,8/10
Hortus botanicus Leiden
Historic botanical garden with glasshouses, unusual plants and quiet spots by the canal.