The holiday doesn’t have to end when the sun sets – in fact, the United Kingdom has some of the best nightscapes for stargazing. City dwellers can take a break from the hustle with a quick trip to South Down’s rugged cliffsides and starry reserve. For holidaymakers in need of a classic adventure, the landscape of Brecon and Beacons offers tons of fun for nature lovers and space enthusiasts. And if you’re craving a remote atmosphere, the regions of Snowdonia and Exmoor should provide the perfect setting. Explore the vast beauty of the UK’s night skies with these amazing spots for gazing at the stars!
The Complete List Of Stargazing Spots In The UK
With a country as beautiful as the United Kingdom, you’ll never run out of beautiful stargazing spots. Families and friends will love visiting Dark Sky Reserves and their dedicated observatories. The beautiful landscapes paired with the glittering night sky also make for a romantic setting when planning a dreamy escapade with a loved one. And to treat your inner explorer, you’ll have access to some of the country’s remote spots and amazing peaks with the closest views of the galaxy. Here are some of the most popular locations across the UK for gazing at the stars:
1. Brecon Beacons
Brecon Beacons is a national park located in Wales and is considered to be the first International Dark Sky Reserve. Due to its protected status, the parkland makes a great effort to preserve its starry views by minimising light pollution. This results in a fantastic display of the Milky Way including famous constellations and even meteor showers. If you want front-row seating, the Usk Reservoir’s remote atmosphere provides the perfect setting for stargazing. On the other hand, Llanthony Prior and Carreg Cennen Castle are the ideal romantic backdrops for star-crossed lovers. When you visit, it’s important to pack extra clothing since the Welsh weather can become unpredictable!
2. South Downs National Park
South Downs National Park is a popular stargazing spot located only an hour away from the city of London. In 2016, it was appointed as a Dark Sky Reserve, attracting space lovers, aspiring astronomers, and adventurous holidaymakers. There are plenty of areas across the national park which are perfect for starry events including Bignor Hill and Devil’s Dyke. If you want excellent views of the Milky Way, Petworth is the perfect location. The national park also has an annual festival which includes fun activities such as nature walks, campfire parties, and space-themed events. With its iconic chalk hills and beautiful heathlands, South Downs’ famous views alone are worth the visit!
3. Snowdonia
Snowdonia, also known as Eryri National Park, is one of Wales’ most popular regions for holidaymakers and glampers. It comes as no surprise considering the parkland’s mountainous trails, wildlife hikes, and starry skies. For uninterrupted stargazing sessions, locals recommended hanging out at Llyn y Dywarchen – an idyllic fishing lake with plenty of space for star lovers. Meanwhile, extreme adventurers love trekking the peak of Bwlch y Groes for a closer look at the night sky. No matter where you camp in Snowdonia, you’re guaranteed premium views of major constellations and meteor showers. Add in its mythical lore and ancient history and you’ve got an exciting holiday coming your way!
4. Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park is considered to be the first International Dark Sky Reserve. Located in the southwest of England, the region is an excellent place for stargazing. Due to its popularity, the national park even has its own Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail where you can explore the woodlands and check out the best spots for celestial sightings. Some of the most frequented areas include Holdstone Hill, County Gate, and Wimbleball Lake. After a night of staring at the stars, you’ll be treated to exquisite views of beautiful moorlands and cliffsides. Here’s a tip: there are telescopes you can rent at the national park centres to make your trip even more memorable!
5. Northumberland
Northumberland is a national park known for its ancient habitats and remote atmosphere. Tucked into the English wilderness, the region is a haven for adventurers and stargazers. Visitors are free to camp out on the slopes near Hadrian’s Wall or seek out the historical quarry of Cawfields. No matter where you are at Northumberland, you’re guaranteed fantastic views of the night skies and your favourite constellations. If you want to dive deeper into space, why not visit Kielder’s Observatory? This observation deck is open all year round and has plenty of events and workshops for curious holidaymakers!
6. Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park is a massive piece of land located in the county of Devon. While the parkland is popular among glampers and holidaymakers, it’s also the perfect location for stargazing. With little to no light pollution, the landscapes of Dartmoor offer premium seats to endless galaxies. The national park also has plenty to offer than just starry spots including miles of moorlands, ancient granite tors, and charming villages scattered across its borders. Once you’re done admiring the stars, you’re free to explore Dartmoor’s extensive heathlands and pockets of woodlands. From its starry skies to its mystical atmosphere, there is a lot to love about this national park in Devon!
7. Kent Downs National Landscape
The Kent Downs National Landscape is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covering the lands of Surrey to the famous white cliffs of Dover. With its stunning beauty, the region regularly attracts holidaymakers, glampers, and stargazers. One of its most popular attractions is the James Irwin Observatory where you can appreciate the night sky and chart twinkling stars. The observatory is also known to host space-themed events and workshops. Another beloved hotspot is Betsom’s Hill – the highest peak in Kent county and the most beautiful area for stargazing. Surrounded by misty woodlands and an open sky, you can stare at the heavens to your heart’s content!
8. New Forest
New Forest is a wide area of woodlands that was once used as a royal hunting forest for the royal family. While not officially considered a dark reserve, the region is an excellent spot for watching the stars. Visitors can stay in open spaces where they can lay blankets, set up their telescopes and search for constellations. The parkland takes pride in conserving the forest’s innate beauty, so you’re guaranteed romantic sights of meadows, trees, and local wildlife. With little to no pollution, New Forest’s unique location creates an endless nightscape where nature lovers can enjoy the quiet atmosphere and beautiful skies. When visiting, don’t hesitate to try out other country pursuits as such idyllic woodland walks, birdwatching, and even horseback riding!
9. Galloway Forest Park
Galloway Forest Park is a gorgeous parkland located in Scotland and dubbed its first Dark Sky Park. It’s extremely popular among holidaymakers and adventurers due to its remoteness and Dark Sky program. When you visit, you’ll have guidance from the park’s dedicated Dark Sky Rangers who will take you to all the best spots. With its strict conservation policies, Galloway offers uninterrupted vistas of the Milky Way including excellent views of the moon. If you want to learn more about the parkland, they have three visitor centres where they will teach you how to spot constellations and identify planets. When you visit, don’t forget to book one of Galloway’s educational tours where visitors can get to know the galaxy better!
10. Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps
Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps is a famous coastline located in the county of Cornwall. While mostly known for its gorgeous beach and natural rock formations, this stretch of coast is also a hidden gem for star lovers. After a day of exploring the shoreline and admiring the blue ocean, you can lay a blanket on one of the grassy hills to gaze up at the stars. Cornwall’s remote countryside is the ultimate setting for seeking your favourite constellations. And while you’re in the county, don’t forget to check out its other popular attractions. Carnewas also has a nearby tea room and garden where you can set up a picnic and enjoy some delicious sandwiches!
11. The Highlands
The Scottish Highlands, simply known as the Highlands, is one of the most beautiful areas in Scotland. The region has diverse landscapes, thriving wildlife, and clear skies for stargazing. With thousands of miles of unexplored wilderness, any spot within the Highlands is an excellent place for admiring the night sky. Feel free to bring your binoculars and telescope so that you can scout major constellations and get a closer look at the moon. When you visit the Highlands, you can also bring out your camping gear to make the most out of your trip. And if you’re lucky and plan your visit right, you might be able to spot the breathtaking Nothern Lights!
12. OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory
The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is a unique attraction in Northern Ireland where “astronomy meets archaeology.” Located within the woodlands of Davagh Forest, the area’s lack of light pollution elevates the stargazing experience. When visiting, you’ll have access to the observatory and forest where you can learn more about the parkland’s special features and favourite stars. There’s also an outdoor viewing platform where you can camp out and wait for the sky to light up. While visitors are welcome to roam the woodlands, it’s recommended to stay close to the observatory for safety reasons. It’s important to note though that during the summer season, it doesn’t get fully dark until later in the night!
13. Cambrian Mountains
The Cambrian Mountains nicknamed the “Desert of Wales,” is a remote and rugged Welsh region that’s perfect for stargazing. Aside from its beautiful mountains and valleys, the area also boasts its own Cambrian Mountains Astro Trail. Spanning over 50 miles of footpaths, this self-guided trail will take you across nine stargazing spots scattered across the Cambrian landscape. Some of the most popular locations include prime seating at The Arch, Llyn Brianne Reservoir and Dam, and an open car park near Powys. When you bring out your telescope, make sure to look out for constellations such as the Taurus and Sirius signs which are the most visible from the mountains. The area is also a popular glamping spot with access to many country pursuits, so consider this when planning your next holiday!
14. Ynys Enlli
Ynys Enlli, also known as Bardsey Island, is a relatively new addition to the International Dark Sky Sanctuaries. The island is only more than a mile long and is surrounded by the Irish Sea, creating the perfect remote atmosphere for stargazing. No matter where you are on the island, you’re guaranteed exclusive sights of the Milky Way and its famous constellations. The best part about visiting Ynys Enlli is that you don’t need a telescope to see the stars. With its pitch-black nightscape, the stars shine brightly and clearly for all space lovers!
15. Sark
Sark is a remote island off the coast of the English Channel and near the shorelines of Normandy in France. The island is a record-breaker for plenty of reasons including being the first Dark Sky Island in the world. Sark is also one of the last remaining islands to ban cars from the road and only allow horse-drawn vehicles or bicycles. Due to its extreme remoteness, it’s undeniable that Sark boasts some of the most impressive night skies. Remember to plan your trip in advance and to pack all the basic amenities that you may not have access to on the island. If you love going on adventures, you should definitely add Sark to the top of your bucket list!
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of things to love about the United Kingdom and that includes its magnificent nightscapes. From the rugged landscapes of Scotland to the warm coastlines of Cornwall, the country is filled with excellent stargazing spots for holidaymakers and nature lovers. If you’re looking for a fun family holiday, the Brecon Beacons and South Downs National Park are perfect destinations. For holidaymakers who want to spice up their romantic break, New Forest and Kent Downs have the dreamiest atmospheres and sights. Meanwhile, Exmoor and Snowdonia are remote corners where you can treat yourself to endless views of the night skies!
Featured Image: “Snowdonia”, by Joshua Earle, licensed under CC0 1.0