Southend Central Museum and Planetarium and its collection

Southend Central Museum and Planetarium
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The Central Museum, located in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, England, is a hub of local and natural history. It also features a planetarium, which was constructed in 1984 by the astronomer Harry Ford. This combination of history and astronomy offers a unique experience for visitors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's past and the universe beyond.

Ekco Radios Collection

One of the highlights of the Central Museum is its collection of original Ekco radios. These radios were manufactured by E.K. Cole & Co. Ltd., a company that was based in Southend and was one of Britain's largest radio manufacturers in the 1930s. This collection provides a glimpse into the technological advancements of the past.

Royal Saxon Tomb Exhibition

In May 2019, the Central Museum opened a new gallery to display the archaeological finds from the Royal Saxon tomb in Prittlewell. This Anglo-Saxon burial mound was discovered in 2003 and the gallery showcases a number of significant Anglo-Saxon artefacts. This exhibition provides a fascinating insight into the region's ancient history.

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Science & Technology Science & Technology Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Astronomy Archaeology Industrial heritage

Southend Central Museum and Planetarium
Victoria Avenue

Visitor information Southend Central Museum and Planetarium

Opening hours

Term Time
Saturday and Sunday: 2pm

​School Holidays
Wed-Sun: 2pm

Admission

Standard Shows
Adults: £7.50
Child/Concession: £5.10
Family Ticket: £23.10
(2 adults & up to 3 children)

Special shows
All tickets: £9

Facilities

Museum shop

Location & Map

Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea

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Southend Central Museum and Planetarium Reviews

Southend Central Museum and Planetarium has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Southend Central Museum and Planetarium offers visitors a mix of local history and astronomical experiences. The museum section provides insights into the area's past, with exhibits covering archaeology, natural history, and social history. Many visitors appreciate the well-curated displays that showcase Southend's development over time.

    The planetarium, while small, is often cited as a highlight. It offers educational shows about space and celestial bodies, which are particularly engaging for children and space enthusiasts. However, some visitors note that the planetarium equipment could benefit from modernization.

    The museum's strengths lie in its accessibility, free admission, and the variety of exhibits that cater to different interests. The staff are generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience.

    On the downside, some visitors find the museum relatively small and feel that certain exhibits could be updated or expanded. The limited opening hours are occasionally mentioned as an inconvenience.

    Despite these minor drawbacks, the Southend Central Museum and Planetarium is generally regarded as a worthwhile visit, especially for those interested in local history or astronomy. It provides an educational experience suitable for both adults and children, making it a good option for a family outing in Southend-on-Sea.

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  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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