Stargazing at and around Little Marshfoot
Little Marshfoot is only four miles from Herstmonceux Observatory, as the crow
flies.
It is an ideal location for stargazing in the UK, as the area is one of the
regions with the greatest numbers of cloud free nights. Indeed the story goes
that the reason why the Royal Observatory was relocated from Greenwich to Sussex
in 1954 is that the decision makers took note of the claims made by Eastbourne
for the most sunny days compared with other resorts. Statistically, the number
of sunny days is mirrored by the number of cloud free nights. However, the way
in which holiday resorts define ‘sunny’ is not very scientifically
precise..... So it was soon clear that the Royal Observatory would have to move
again!
Eastbourne promotes itself as "The Sunshine Coast", and often claims the highest recorded hours of sunlight, producing a rivalry with the larger coastal resorts of Bournemouth and Weymouth.
In October 2007 Eastbourne
was named the sunniest place in the UK with an impressive 34.6 hours of sunshine
a week.
The Halifax annual Quality of Life Survey put Eastbourne at the top of the charts
with the best sunshine records, beating rivals Isle of Wight and Gosport to
the title of sunniest town in Great Britain.
In 2007 Eastbourne recorded
its warmest April since records began 140 years ago, with a maximum temperature
of 24°C on 15 April.
Only 7 miles from Eastbourne, we at Little Marshfoot also enjoy the benefits
of the good weather. However, we also have a
covered loggia and a terrace from which to view the night sky.
So we are open every day of the year for business, come and stay for a short break, or come for a week.
01323 844690
What's on in April 2008?
Phases of the Moon
New Moon: 6th
First quarter: 12th
Full Moon: 20th
Last quarter: 28th
- Two shooting star displays, peaking on the 11th and 22nd.
Current Uses of Herstmonceux
Herstmonceux Castle a Photographic Tour
Current Uses of the Science Centre
The Observatory Science Centre retains the site's close connection with astronomy.
It occupies the buildings that used to be the Royal Observatory, and the copper
clad domes and historic telescopes give the centre a very special atmosphere.
It is now a discovery centre
where everyone can experience and enjoy science through hands-on exhibits, activities
and science shows.
What's on at the Science
Centre
Herstmonceux Castle and Grounds