University of Reading - Atmospheric Observatory Tour

The University of Reading has made detailed daily weather observations since 1908. We now have almost 120 years records of temperatures, rainfall, barometric pressure and (since 1956) of sunshine duration, initially made on our London Road campus, moving to our Whiteknights campus in 1968.

Although for the time being we continue to use ‘traditional’ sensors such as glass thermometers and their like, today most of our instruments are fully automatic electronic sensors which are logged by computer every second of every day. The wide range of observatory instruments and their records over time provide a valuable teaching resource to the department and the community, as well as continuing our long climate record.

The tours are free, and last about 45 minutes. Open to all (ages 8 and up, with parent or guardian if under 18). Booking is essential as places are limited.

The Atmospheric Observatory is location 28 in square c5 on the Whiteknights campus map - https://www.reading.ac.uk/about/visit-us

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Host or Publisher Department of Meteorology, University of Reading