Lifestyle: Best places to see starry skies in the UK
The UK is home to some wonderful dark sky locations, providing excellent opportunities for stargazing.
Galloway Forest Park, Scotland:
Designated as the first Dark Sky Park in the UK, Galloway Forest Park offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. The lack of light pollution in this expansive forest makes it one of the best places for observing the night sky.
Exmoor National Park, England:
Awarded Dark Sky Reserve status, Exmoor National Park in Southwest England provides stunning views of the stars. The park organises regular stargazing events, and its low levels of light pollution contribute to the exceptional night skies.
Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales:
The Brecon Beacons is another International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best stargazing locations in Wales. The park hosts various stargazing events throughout the year, guided by experienced astronomers.
Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park, England:
Awarded Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status, this area in Northumberland boasts some of the darkest skies in the UK. Kielder Observatory offers public stargazing events and guided astronomy sessions.
Snowdonia National Park, Wales:
Snowdonia National Park, with its mountainous terrain and lack of urban sprawl, provides a fantastic setting for stargazing. The Snowdonia Dark Sky Reserve offers incredible opportunities to observe the night sky.
Isle of Coll, Scotland:
The Isle of Coll in the Inner Hebrides is a designated Dark Sky Community. With minimal light pollution, it offers breath-taking views of the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.
Sark, Channel Islands:
Sark, a car-free island in the Channel Islands, is the first Dark Sky Island in the world. With strict light pollution controls, it provides an ideal setting for stargazing.
Moffat, Scotland:
Designated as the first Dark Sky Town in the UK, Moffat in Dumfries and Galloway offers residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the night sky with minimal light interference.
Bodmin Moor, England:
Bodmin Moor in Cornwall is known for its rugged landscapes and clear night skies. It is a designated Dark Sky Landscape, providing a tranquil setting for stargazers.
Collaborative Observatories in Various Locations:
Various collaborative observatories and stargazing locations, such as the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory and the Norman Lockyer Observatory in Devon, offer public events and educational programs for a unique stargazing experience.
Before planning your stargazing adventure, it’s advisable to check for any organised events, weather conditions, and moon phases to enhance your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, these locations offer a glimpse into the beauty of the night sky.
