Beginner telescope with a £200 budget

[The_Radiation_Specialist]

Hi,

I'm looking to buy my first telescope. I have a budget of about £200. Any tips? Also does anyone know the most affordable place to buy telescopes in London? I've looked at Amazon.co.uk too.

[DaveC426913]

I strongly advise you attend a local astronomy club.

Don't go into buying your first scope without talking with other hobbyists.
You'll be able to discuss what kinds of things you're interested in observing, and thus what kind of scope you should get.

You'll also be able to consider what your needs and abilities are. How far do you have to go to get a good viewing location? Are you wiling to haul a hundred pound tripod around and spend a half hour setting up? etc.

[The_Radiation_Specialist]

Thanks Dave.

Do you know any astronomy clubs in London? I'm definitely keen to join and go to star parties.

[DaveC426913]

Thanks Dave.

Do you know any astronomy clubs in London? I'm definitely keen to join and go to star parties.

Well, considering I'm almost a quarter of the way around the planet from you, not really.

A quick internet search will turn up dozens of clubs, from which you can choose one or several at your pleasure.

I'll try to post some Telescope Selection Primer notes tomorrow. Though lots of members here will surely chip in.

[hyak107]

Check out https://stargazerslounge.com, it's a UK-based astronomy forum. I believe The Royal Astronomical Society is based in London (https://ras.ac.uk), I'm sure they have regular outreach events you could attend.