Science FestivalGet ready for a week of hands-on fun, mind-blowing experiments, and awe-inspiring science at the Summerlee Science Festival 2026! Our festival features interactive shows, workshops, and free activities for all ages.
Ticketed Shows
Tickets: £5 per personWe recommend booking online! We’ve reserved 30 tickets for the first show of the day and 20 for the remaining shows to leave some availability for on-the-day visitors.
- All bookings with children under 14 must include at least one ticket-holding adult.
- Babes-in-arms do not need a ticket; everyone else requires a ticket.
- No free tickets — all adults accompanying children need to purchase a ticket.
Little Lab Investigators
Children aged 3 –8 will love this workshop exploring the invisible forces of static electricity with exciting, hands-on activities such as jumping tissue paper, balloon experiments and the awesome Van de Graaff generator – all led by an experienced science teacher.
Think Science
Prepare for a mind-blowing science show full of surprising facts, experiments to try at home (and things you absolutely shouldn’t!), and unforgettable demonstrations like weighing your own head or walking on a bed of nails.
Animal Man’s Mini-Zoo
Get up close and personal with fascinating animals, reptiles, and insects from all over the world. Rabbits, guinea pigs, snakes, lizards, and creepy crawlies — come and see who will crawl, hop, or slither into your hands!
STEM with Mr N.
Award-winning STEM teacher and YouTuber Mr N brings his famous science demos to Summerlee. Expect family-friendly experiments where anything could happen!
Silly Science
Get messy with slime, sticky creations, and explosive experiments! Learn about polymers, chemical reactions, and hands-on science in a fun and creative environment.Note: Suitable for ages 4+, and a messy activity — please dress accordingly.
Free Activities
All free activities are drop-in between 10.30am and 3.30pm.
Fun Science
Join our team of scientists for hands-on experiments, from stretchy slime to chromatography and electric buzzes. Curiosity, creativity, and learning through play guaranteed!
Test Your Headphones
Bring your headphones and test if your listening setup is safe for your hearing using a “dummy head” microphone and software. Quick, fun, and informative!
Glasgow Science Centre on Tour: Body Vision
Explore human anatomy and physiology with interactive exhibits on fitness, body composition, and lifestyle choices.
Light Lab
Draw with UV light and experience the world upside down in this interactive, mind-bending lab.
Upstairs Science Fair
Visit our mezzanine level for free science activities, demonstrations, and experiments led by Summerlee staff, universities, and local organisations. Each day offers something new to explore!
Little Science Festival (Under-5s)
12.30–2.30pm Hands-on science activities in the Learning Room, designed for the youngest explorers.
All shows last approximately 1 hour (unless otherwise stated) and are suitable for all ages, except Little Lab Investigators, aimed at ages 3–8.