10 Best Telescopes For Beginners 2025 in the UK

The EACONN 80mm Aperture 600mm Refractor Telescope is designed for astronomy enthusiasts who are starting their journey in stargazing. One of its standout features is the 80mm aperture, which is capable of capturing ample light to provide bright and clear images of celestial objects. The fully coated optics also help reduce light reflection, making it easier for beginners to see clearer images. This telescope offers versatility with its 600mm focal length and comes with two eyepieces, providing 30x to 66x magnification, making it suitable for observing the moon and planets.

Portability is a key advantage of this product. It comes with a backpack, making it easy to transport for outdoor adventures. The included adjustable tripod and easy-to-follow setup guide make it accessible for beginners who may be unfamiliar with assembling telescopes. However, while the weight is manageable at 840 grams, the package weight is heavier at 3.09 kilograms, which might be a consideration for some when traveling.

The rough adjustment and positioning gimbal assist in smoothly adjusting the telescope to desired positions, an advantage for those new to astronomy. Moreover, it includes a mobile phone adapter, which can enhance the viewing experience by allowing users to capture and share images. Nevertheless, the reliance on a manual winding power source means that it lacks some of the conveniences of more advanced models, such as motorized tracking.

As a beginner's telescope, it provides the necessary tools to spark interest in astronomy, but experienced users might find the fixed focus limiting. Despite some minor drawbacks, like the heavier package weight and manual operation, this telescope is an excellent gift for kids and beginners, providing various opportunities for family fun both at home and on-the-go.

The Celestron 22450 StarSense Explorer LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope is a solid choice for beginners. With a 70mm aperture and a focal length of 700mm, it provides clear and sharp views of the night sky. Its f/10 focal ratio is well-suited for observing planets, nebulae, and star clusters.

The standout feature is the StarSense technology, which uses your smartphone to guide the telescope, making it easy for those with no prior experience to navigate the sky. The accompanying Explorer app enhances this experience by generating a list of visible celestial objects based on your location. The manual altazimuth mount with slow motion adjustment helps in smoothly tracking objects, although it may require some practice to get used to.

The telescope is relatively lightweight at 3.35 kilograms and includes a full-height tripod, making it reasonably portable for different viewing locations. However, its 812mm tube length may be cumbersome for some users to transport. The package includes useful accessories such as two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), a 2x Barlow lens, and an erect image diagonal, providing versatility in magnification options. This telescope is ideal for beginners who want an easy-to-use, guided stargazing experience without diving deep into complicated setups.