Xplore!

Xplore! is a hands on science discovery centre in Wrexham city centre, with more than 85 interactive exhibits, a live science show and a planetarium. It is a favourite family day out in North Wales, and every ticket includes a science show that changes through the year, so no two visits are quite the same.

ABOUT XPLORE!

Xplore! has been bringing science to Wrexham for around 20 years. It began life as Techniquest Glyndŵr on the university campus, and in September 2020 it opened its new home on Henblas Street in the heart of the city.

The centre is run by North Wales Science, an educational charity wholly owned by Wrexham University. Its team of science communicators deliver shows, workshops and school sessions in both Welsh and English, and the centre's aim is simple: to be a home for science in North Wales.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

• Interactive exhibits: more than 85 hands on exhibits covering forces, engineering, physics, sound, space and the natural world.

• Live science show: included with admission and changing through the year.

• Planetarium: explore the night sky and the wonders of space.

• Workshops and events: themed activities during school holidays and special event days.

• Science Shop: experiments, kits and pocket money gifts to carry on discovering at home.

• Café: drinks and snacks, open to everyone, including those not visiting the exhibits.

• Inclusion days and quiet times: sessions with reduced noise for visitors with sensory sensitivities, plus free fidget bags and ear defenders to borrow and a low light area.

• Parties and groups: birthday parties, school visits and tailored group and corporate sessions.

• Xplore! Nature: outdoor learning that brings science together with forest school.

WHY VISIT

Xplore! is a place where children and adults learn by doing. Instead of reading about science, visitors push, pull, build, test and experiment for themselves. It works well for toddlers through to teenagers, and for grandparents who enjoy the exhibits just as much. Being right in the city centre, it is a great rainy day option in Wrexham. Pair it with Tŷ Pawb across the road for a full day schedule.

GETTING THERE

Xplore! is at 17 Henblas Street, with a second entrance on Chester Street directly opposite Tŷ Pawb. It is one of eight stops on the Wrexham Attractions trail.

• By train: Wrexham General station is about a 12 minute walk.

• By bus: Wrexham bus station is about a 6 minute walk.

• By car: coming from Chester on the A483, leave at junction 6 and follow the A5152 into the city centre. The closest council car parks are at Tŷ Pawb, Waterworld and the library, all a short walk away.

KEY FACTS

• Address: Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, 17 Henblas Street, Wrexham, LL13 8AE

• Opening: Friday to Sunday 9.30am to 4.30pm, and every day during Wrexham school holidays; Monday to Thursday times vary around school bookings, so call ahead

• Café and Science Shop: open to the public, Monday to Thursday 9.30am to 3pm and Friday to Sunday 9.30am to 4.30pm

• Admission: £12.95 at weekends and in school holidays, including the live science show; £8.40 off peak on weekdays

• Family: a Multi Ticket for four is £51.80

• Free: under 3s and registered carers

• Annual membership: £32 per person, and a day ticket can be upgraded on your next visit

• Planetarium only: £3.50

• Children: under 15s must be with an adult at all times

• Accessibility: step free entrances, lift to the planetarium, accessible toilets, Changing Places, baby changing and a buggy park; assistance dogs welcome

• Payment: card or cash in the centre

• Languages: activities delivered in Welsh and English

CONTACT

• Website: xplorescience.co.uk

• Email: info@xplorescience.co.uk

• Phone: 01978 293400

• Instagram: instagram.com/xploresciencecentre

FAQS

What age is Xplore! suitable for?

All ages. The exhibits are designed for children and adults to explore together, and under 15s must be accompanied by an adult.

When is Xplore! open?

Friday to Sunday from 9.30am to 4.30pm, and every day during Wrexham school holidays. Weekday opening varies with school bookings, so call 01978 293400 to check.

Is there parking near Xplore!?

Yes. Council car parks at Tŷ Pawb, Waterworld and Wrexham Library are all within a short walk.