The Observatory Dental

The Observatory - History and Conversion

The Observatory – History and Conversion

The Observatory has been a landmark in Falmouth for over 150 years, with a rich history that reflects the town’s scientific, social, and architectural heritage.

Funded by the Cornwall Royal Polytechnic Society (The Poly), the original Observatory tower at Victoria Cottages was constructed in 1868 and meteorological readings began. However, by 1883, it was clear the site was not suitable and searches for a new site began.

banner shape1
  • Open evenings till 8pm
down casual day plain arrow down dull plain arrow
01

Our Historic Home in Falmouth

1868

Funded by the Cornwall Royal Polytechnic Society (The Poly), the original Observatory tower at Victoria Cottages was constructed & meteorological readings began. By 1883, it is clear the site is not suitable, and searches for a new site begin.

1884

1884

The site for the new Observatory on Western Terrace is purchased, and the foundation stone is laid in a very well-attended ceremony.

1886

1886

Observations begin at the new site, with Edward Kitto as the lead Observer; his wife and daughter live in the new building.

1898

1898

Errors in the readings are found. This starts many years of threatened funding, with fundraising activities and grants from The Poly repeatedly saving the Observatory from closure.

1913

1913

The Meteorological Society took over the employment of the new observer (J. B. Phillips) upon Kitto’s retirement. Phillips later offers to work for free in exchange for living rent-free to secure his job and home in the Observatory.

1964

1964

The building is sold to the ‘Falmouth Old People’s Welfare Committee’, who turn the property into sheltered independent living quarters for the elderly; a new scheme designed to target loneliness amongst the ageing population. It is now known as ‘The Abbeyfield Society’ house.

1998

1998

The Abbeyfield sells the building, which becomes ‘Alexandra’s Respite Home’, opening in 1999 and hosting Cornwall’s then-oldest resident at 107 years old.

2002

2002

The Alexandra Respite Home closes and is sold to the Radmore family, who convert the rooms to bed & breakfast accommodation.

2021

2021

The Radmores look to retire and place the Observatory on the market. The Paterson family, who are living nearby, see the huge potential as a dental practice, with the purchase completed in June 2021.

2022

2022

In September 2022, after a year of renovation, The Observatory Dental Practice opened with a single surgery and three full-time members of staff.

2023

2023

In August 2023, a second surgery was opened with the team growing to 12. Water ingress demanded the replacement of the southern portion of the roof.

2025

2025

In winter 2024, water ingress led to the renovation of the flat-roofed northern end of the property. In March 2025, a third surgery was opened, and by June 2026, the team had grown to 24.

logo icon

Why patients love their experience with us

Real stories. Genuine smiles. Hear how The Observatory Dental Practice has made a difference in the lives of our patients.

View All Testimonials
google white plain icon
star white plain icon

I recently joined this practice and would highly recommend them for fantastic care and service. I hadn’t been to the dentist for around a decade...

Elle

google white plain icon
star white plain icon

This place is mind-blowing. I hadn’t been to the dentist for 9 years. They were very realistic about what I needed and didn’t force any...

Amber

google white plain icon
star white plain icon

I cannot recommend Observatory Dental enough. I have been with them for the last couple of years, and their service is always outstanding. Andrew has...

Georgia

google white plain icon
star white plain icon

I visited The Observatory Dental Practice with my mum, who is hearing and visually impaired. From the moment we stepped into the practice, she was...

Stacey

google white plain icon
star white plain icon

I visited ‘The Observatory’ today for a hygienist appointment with Yana, and I couldn’t be more impressed. The practice has a lovely, welcoming atmosphere, and...

Emily

Contact

Get in touch

The Observatory Dental

Social Media

Join the conversation

Follow us on social media for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and more.

 The Observatory Dental Practice
 The Observatory Dental Practice
 The Observatory Dental Practice
 The Observatory Dental Practice
 The Observatory Dental Practice
 The Observatory Dental Practice
The Observatory Dental
Google Rating
5.0
Google Rating
Google-review