Robson Green launches new star attraction

A Northumberland visitor attraction has expanded its stargazing offer with the launch of a new observatory experience in one of Europe’s darkest sky destinations.

Kielder Observatory has opened a new planetarium and observatory at Twice Brewed Inn, near Hadrian’s Wall, with actor and presenter Robson Green officially launching the attraction.

The new experience includes state-of-the-art telescopes, including ‘Robson’s Reflector’, and is designed to give more visitors access to Northumberland’s internationally recognised dark skies.

Its opening marks another milestone for Kielder Observatory, which has welcomed more than 250,000 visitors and become one of the North East’s most distinctive tourism attractions.

Having started delivering stargazing events at Twice Brewed Inn in September 2025, the charity has since created a dedicated observatory space on site.

Robson, whose popular series Robson Green's Weekend Escapes has celebrated the people, places and outdoor experiences of the North East, said: “There’s something incredibly special about the skies in Northumberland. 

“They make you stop, reflect and feel connected to something much bigger than yourself. 

“Places like Kielder Observatory at Twice Brewed Inn help people experience that wonder first-hand, while also shining a light on this incredible part of the country. 

“I’m delighted to be part of the launch and thrilled to have a telescope named after me.” 

Alongside its main base at Kielder, the Twice Brewed Inn site means Kielder Observatory now operates the only two dedicated observatory experiences within Northumberland International Dark Sky Park.

The expansion comes as astro-tourism continues to grow, with Northumberland attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond.

National Geographic recently named a Northumberland stargazing experience at Kielder Observatory among the world’s top travel adventures for 2026.

Leigh Venus, chief executive of Kielder Observatory, added: “Kielder Observatory has always been about creating moments of inspiration, wonder and reflection through the night sky, while making astronomy accessible to everyone. 

“This new location allows us to reach even more people – from families and tourists to schools and communities who may never otherwise have the opportunity to engage with astronomy in this way – and create a different kind of experience combining our incredible team with the food, drink and warm welcome of Twice Brewed Inn right next door. 

“Northumberland’s dark skies are one of the region’s greatest natural assets and we’re incredibly proud to continue building experiences that support tourism, education and inspiration.” 

As a registered charity, Kielder Observatory reinvests income into education, outreach and community programmes, including school visits, STEM engagement and projects designed to raise awareness of light pollution.

For more information and to book, click here.

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.