Science Museum

There is a Weather Gallery on level 1 of the Science Museum. Visitors can see how meteorologists predict, measure and record the weather, and view one of the world's finest collections of barometers including a FitzRoy barometer dating from about 1880. Admiral FitzRoy pioneered the idea of using the telegraph to gather weather reports and he encouraged the use of public barometers, so sailors could make weather predictions. The Campbell sunshine recorder, developed by the Rev JF Campbell in 1853, is also on show. It is interesting because the idea behind it is still used today. A glass globe focused the sunlight and scorched record cards.

Ecotech Centre

The Ecotech building itself is very attractive and eco-designed. There is also an organic heritage garden and nature area. The main attractions, however, are the two wind turbines, harnessing the power of the English weather. The first, Swaffham 1, includes a viewing platform, designed by Foster & Partners, which has already been visited by more than 50,000 people. But be warned – the platform can only be reached by climbing a 300-step spiral staircase inside the tower.

There is a second Swaffham wind turbine – the UK’s tallest onshore example. Together the two turbines power 75% of the town with wind energy!

National Meteorological Library and Archive

Anyone with an interest in the weather and the processes that cause it will find something fascinating at the Library or Archive. Included in the collection are weather reports of Scott’s Antarctic expedition from 1911 and the great early writings on meteorology from such pioneers as Aristotle to Francis Bacon.

There are also weather reports for the UK every day from January 1, 1869, to the present day, a number of the earliest weather diaries dating to the late 18th century and the original Beaufort Scale.

St Pancras Church, Widecombe-in-the-Moor

On October 21, 1638, the church of St Pancras was apparently struck by ball lightning during a severe thunderstorm. As a result of this wild weather, four worshippers were killed, around 60 injured, and the building severely damaged. Witnesses' written accounts tell of a strange darkness, powerful thunder, and “a great ball of fire” ripping through a window and tearing part of the roof open. This is considered by some to be one of the earliest recorded instances of ball lightning.

According to local legend, it was the result of a visit by the devil who had made a pact with a local card player and gambler called Jan Reynolds. The deal was that if the devil ever found him asleep in church, he could have his soul. Jan was said to have dozed off during the service that day, with his pack of cards in his hand.

Why not go and have a look round the church – just remember not to nod off!