Business Details
Interactive Science Museum in Widnes | Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Science Discovery Centre
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Science Discovery Centre is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee dedicated to informing, educating, and inspiring audiences about chemistry and its industrial heritage. Our mission combines unique hands-on experiences, rich historical archives, and strong local connections to engage visitors of all ages. We offer interactive exhibits, reconstructed historical scenes, and science shows that bring STEM subjects and humanities to life. With a Grade II listed building housing over a century of chemical industry history, we provide educational workshops for schools, family-friendly activities, and event spaces for conferences and celebrations.Our Observatory Gallery offers panoramic views alongside interactive learning, while our community programs ensure accessibility and inclusion for all. As a hub for science engagement, we collaborate with local partners to preserve industrial heritage and inspire future generations through exhibitions, outreach initiatives, and volunteer opportunities.
Services
Interactive Gallery
Science Workshops
Family Shows
Conference Hire
Heritage Exhibits
Observatory Access
School Programs
Birthday Parties
Community Events
Volunteering Opportunities
Highlights and features
- We offer interactive exhibits combining science, technology, and history
- Our educational workshops align with school curricula for Key Stages 1-3
- We provide accessible facilities including Changing Places and level access
- Our Observatory Gallery combines science learning with panoramic views
- We host unique events from heritage afternoon teas to Dementia Cafs
Services
Interactive Gallery
Explore hands-on science exhibits including TV studio filming, animation creation, and ball run construction. Designed for all ages, this gallery makes STEM concepts accessible through play. Located on the ground floor with level access.
Science Workshops
Curriculum-linked workshops for Key Stage 1-3 pupils covering chemistry, engineering, and industrial heritage. Includes practical experiments and historical reconstructions. Available Tuesday-Friday during term time.
Observatory Gallery
Glass-walled rooftop gallery with 360-degree views of the Mersey Gateway Bridge and surrounding area. Features interactive exhibits about local geography and industrial heritage. Accessible via external glass lift.
Conference Hire
Grade II listed venue for corporate events, conferences, and training sessions. Combines historical architecture with modern facilities. Includes access to science exhibits and catering options.
Family Shows
Live science shows exploring chemical reactions, historical remedies, and STEM concepts. Designed for family audiences with interactive elements. Scheduled during weekends and school holidays.
People
Nikki Burton Mallott
Chief Executive Officer
Leading Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Science Discovery Centre's strategic direction, Nikki combines heritage preservation with innovative science engagement. With extensive experience in cultural sector leadership, she drives educational programs and community initiatives.
Questions
What are Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Science Discovery Centre's opening hours?
We're open Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00, with last admission at 16:00. Closed Mondays except during school holidays.
Are there educational programs for schools?
Yes, we offer curriculum-linked workshops and science shows for Key Stage 1-3 pupils, available Tuesday-Friday during term time.
Can I host events at Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Science Discovery Centre?
Our venue accommodates conferences, birthday parties, and special events with unique science-themed spaces and catering options.
Is Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Science Discovery Centre accessible for visitors with disabilities?
We provide ramped access, lifts to all floors, accessible toilets, and a Changing Places facility for all visitors' comfort.
What family activities are available?
Interactive workshops, science shows, and hands-on exhibits engage families during weekends and school holidays with themed activities.
Reviews (6)
Carla Wilson
Jan 23, 2022
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Brilliant!!!! visited today with our children (11, 9, almost 2) and all 3 enjoyed it so much. the 9 and 11 year old were really into the science stuff but the toddler also has a great time running about in a… safe environment. lovely walk around spike Island and the outdoor play areas afterwards. highly recommend for a great value famy outing that's both fun and educational.
Mornings
Jan 19, 2022
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Only a small museum, but kept the kids engaged 11am - 3pm. Lovely staff, nice little cafe and shop. Disabled access throughout, disabled toilet is a proper "changing places". Play area outside, with picturesque riverside area with ducks and geese. For your ticket 5.95 you get a year of visits! Carers are free :)
Alex Hamer
Jan 06, 2022
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Great fun for the kids, informative talks and the cafe is pretty good too! There's also a playground right outside so if you have time there's some outdoor fun too
Steve Woodward
Jan 05, 2022
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I remember coming here as a kid. Loved it. Now, with my partners Kids I was able to enjoy it all over again. It's just amazing. They loved everything. It was all hands on and very kid friendly. It's a really well put together place, fantastic value. We look forward to coming again!
Nathan Sobel
Dec 30, 2021
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Really lovely. Staff were so kind. Great facilities. Took children aged 5-15 and fun was had by all for 3 hours. We didn't even see everything.
Alan Wynne
Dec 28, 2021
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Good range of activities cafe provides a range of hot and cold snacks including sandwiches and children's meals at a reasonable price. Nature walk and outside okay area too with a no pay car park. Staff very pleasant.
