Sidmouth Science Festival has celebrated a record-breaking year, with excellent attendance and positive feedback across its ten-day programme of talks, workshops, demonstrations and family activities.
Super Science Saturday, the popular Robot Workshop and the Family Fun Day at the Norman Lockyer Observatory were among the highlights, alongside a wide-ranging programme of well-attended talks from speakers covering an impressive variety of scientific subjects. The response from audiences of all ages has underlined the appetite for science, discovery and learning in the local community.
Chris Lockyear, the festival’s Programme Manager, said: “We’re absolutely delighted with the response to this year’s festival. Record-breaking attendance and positive feedback are a wonderful reward for everyone who has put so much effort into creating an exciting and varied programme. I’d like to thank all our speakers, workshop leaders, exhibitors and everyone who has contributed their time, expertise and enthusiasm to make the events such a success.”
The festival is entirely volunteer-run, with a dedicated team working throughout the year to plan and deliver the programme.
Dave Bramley, Chair of Sidmouth Science Festival, said: “A huge thank you goes to all our volunteers who work throughout the year to make the festival happen. Their commitment, hard work and enthusiasm are at the heart of everything we do, and this year’s success is a real testament to them.
“We’re also extremely grateful to everyone who has made a donation to support the festival. This has been our toughest year yet for securing sponsorship, so donations from local residents and visitors are more important than ever. Every contribution, however large or small, helps us meet the costs of putting on the festival and ensures we can continue to bring science to the community.”
Although the festival has now finished for another year, its work continues behind the scenes as the team begins planning for 2027. The festival is keen to welcome new volunteers to join its friendly and committed team. You don’t need to be a scientist – there are many ways to get involved, from helping to plan the programme and organise events to supporting activities during the festival itself. Anyone interested in playing a part in the future of this much-loved community event is encouraged to get in touch through the festival website or by emailing info@sidmouthsciencefestival.
Following this year’s success, Sidmouth Science Festival will return from 8 to 17 October 2027, with another programme designed to spark curiosity, share discoveries and make science accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Residents and visitors who would like to support the festival can make a donation through the website at www.sidmouthsciencefestival.