TOP 10 Stargazing Spots In The UK: England Edition

20th Jul 2024
TOP 10 Stargazing Spots In The UK: England Edition

Welcome to the second edition of our cosmic journey through the UK’s best stargazing spots. After exploring the celestial wonders of Scotland, we’re now turning our telescopes to England. We did a thorough research to create a cosmic treasure map of the TOP 10 Stargazing Spots in England. We’re talking about the crème de la crème of stargazing locations that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into your own personal planetarium.

This list isn’t in any particular order. It’s more like a celestial buffet, and you’re free to pick whichever spot tickles your fancy. Each location has its own unique charm. It’s all about finding that perfect spot for you to gaze up and get lost in the wonders of the universe.

Another great thing to mention before we jump in is the list of dozens of Dark Sky Discovery Sites near you. These specially designated locations, carefully selected by the UK Dark Sky Discovery Partnership, provide exceptional stargazing conditions away from light pollution. Now, let’s explore some of England’s stargazing gems.

Top 10 Stargazing Spots in England

1. Northumberland International Dark Sky Park

Designated in 2013 as England’s first International Dark Sky Park, this vast expanse of 572 square miles boasts some of the darkest skies in Europe. Stargazers flock to prime viewing locations like Cawfields Quarry, where the Milky Way stretches across the horizon, and Stonehaugh’s stargazing pavilion, offering a unique sheltered observation point.

Northumberland International Dark Sky Park
Northumberland Coast. Credit: Gary Woodburn (https://www.northumberlandcoast-nl.org.uk/dark-sky-site/)

The charming village of Harbottle provides a perfect base for night sky exploration, with its clear views and minimal light pollution. However, the crown jewel of this astronomical paradise is undoubtedly Kielder Observatory. Perched atop Black Fell, this state-of-the-art facility hosts regular events, from meteor shower watches to deep-sky observations, guided by passionate astronomers. With its powerful telescopes and engaging programs, Kielder Observatory offers visitors a chance to peer into the depths of the cosmos, making Northumberland International Dark Sky Park a must-visit destination for both seasoned astronomers and curious novices alike.

Kielder Observatory
Kielder Observatory. Credit: https://www.forestryengland.uk

2. North York Moors International Dark Sky Reserve

Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, the North York Moors National Park joined the ranks of elite stargazing destinations when it was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve in December 2020

  • Vast area of 1,440 km² offering exceptional starry nights
  • Part of the largest combined Dark Sky Reserve in the UK and one of the biggest in Europe
  • Drier climate compared to western parts of the UK, often resulting in clearer skies for stargazing

Top Viewing Spots:

  1. Dalby Forest: Home to Scarborough & Ryedale Astronomical Society events.
  2. Sutton Bank National Park Centre: Features the Star Hub for dedicated stargazing events.
  3. Low Dalby: Offers stunning views of the Milky Way on clear nights.
North York Moors
Stargazing at North York Moors. Credit: https://gostargazing.co.uk

The North York Moors Dark Sky Reserve isn’t just about passive observation. It actively promotes dark sky conservation through education and outreach programs. The park hosts an annual Dark Skies Festival in February and March, offering 17 days of celestial celebrations.For the best stargazing experience, visit between October and March when the nights are longest. On exceptionally clear nights, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights. Remember, the North York Moors’ commitment to dark sky preservation means that at least 67% of properties have ‘dark sky friendly’ lighting. This dedication ensures that your stargazing experience will be truly out of this world!

3. South Downs National Park

This park, designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve in May 2016, offers stargazers a rare opportunity to witness celestial wonders in the heart of southeast England. The prestigious status recognizes the park’s commitment to preserving its pristine night skies, with an impressive two-thirds of its area boasting views of the Milky Way. Visitors can explore a variety of prime stargazing locations, including the dramatic Devil’s Dyke, the panoramic Ditchling Beacon, the coastal beauty of Birling Gap, and the historic Old Winchester Hill.

South Downs National Park
South Downs National Park. Credit: https://www.sevensisters.org.uk/things-to-do/stargazing/

These sites provide sweeping vistas of the starry heavens, allowing amateur astronomers and casual observers to marvel at constellations, planets, and even the faint glow of our galaxy. With its accessibility to nearly 17 million people in Greater London and the southeast, the South Downs International Dark Sky Reserve stands as a testament to the importance of protecting our natural nightscapes for future generations to enjoy.

4. Exmoor National Park

The rugged landscape of the park, characterized by rolling moorlands, deep valleys, and ancient woodlands, transforms it into a natural planetarium after sunset. On clear nights, visitors can witness thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and other astronomical wonders with the naked eye, thanks to the park’s minimal light pollution

Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park. Credit: Keith Trueman

Prime stargazing locations:

  • Brendon Two Gates: Offers panoramic views from high on the moor
  • Webbers Post: Provides expansive vistas with convenient parking
  • Ansley Gate: A secluded spot away from residual light pollution
  • Wimbleball Lake: Combines stargazing with beautiful water reflections
  • Dunkery Beacon: The highest point in Exmoor, offering 360-degree views
  • County Gate Car Park: Easily accessible with wide-open skies

Exmoor’s commitment to dark sky preservation extends beyond its natural features. The park offers specialized accommodations and services for stargazers, including:

  1. Dark Sky Friendly businesses: Accommodations that have undergone training to keep light pollution low and enhance the stargazing experience
  2. Telescope hire: Visitors can rent high-quality telescopes from various locations within the park
  3. Guided stargazing experiences: Expert-led tours and sessions are available, providing insights into the night sky and use of professional equipment

The annual Exmoor Dark Skies Festival, typically held in October when skies are at their darkest, offers a range of events and activities for all ages, from astrophotography walks to beginner-friendly talks.

5. Yorkshire Dales National Park

Twistleton Scar in the Yorkshire Dales National Park
Sky over Twistleton Scar in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Credits: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

The park boasts some of the darkest skies in the country, with large areas completely free from local light pollution. On a clear night, visitors can see up to 2,000 stars, the Milky Way, planets, and meteors.  Under the right conditions, it’s possible to witness the spectacular aurora borealis from the Yorkshire Dales. Moreover, the park provides excellent conditions for observing various astronomical events throughout the year, including meteor showers like the Perseids in August.

When designated as a Dark Sky Reserve in 2020, an impressive 90% of residential properties in the Yorkshire Dales already met the dark sky-friendly criteria, far exceeding the required 67%. They’ve implemented measures such as requiring details of lighting schemes in planning applications since 2006 and working with local councils to replace street lights with warmer, less intrusive 3000K colour lighting

6. Red Hill Nature Reserve

Red Hill Nature Resort
Credit: https://redhillnatureresort.com/activities/star-gazing/

This chalk grassland habitat, managed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust, provides an excellent vantage point for amateur astronomers and casual sky-watchers alike. While not officially designated as a Dark Sky Discovery Site, Red Hill Nature Reserve benefits from its location within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which helps protect it from excessive light pollution. 

The reserve provides fantastic views over the Lincolnshire Wolds, suggesting it offers an elevated position ideal for unobstructed stargazing.

7. Bodmin Moor, Cornwall AONB

Welcome to Bodmin Moor, Cornwall’s celestial gem and the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in the UK to achieve International Dark Sky Park status. It covers 80 square miles of spectacular open countryside within the AONB, plus a two-mile buffer zone, providing vast areas for stargazing.

Bodmin Moor is home to Caradon Observatory, which offers community outreach programs and aims to become a research-grade facility, providing more comprehensive education opportunities.

Milky Way over Bodmin Moor
Milky Way over Bodmin Moor. Credit: https://darksky.org/

For those seeking a more structured stargazing session, Bodmin Moor hosts several organized events throughout the year, complete with expert guides and high-powered telescopes. These gatherings offer a chance to learn about constellations, planets, and other celestial phenomena in a friendly and informative setting. Additionally, the area’s well-maintained footpaths and open spaces provide ample opportunities for solo or small-group exploration, allowing for a more personal connection with the night sky.

8. Cotswolds

Picture this: rolling hills bathed in moonlight, ancient woodlands, and a sky so dark it seems to swallow you whole. This place is called the Cotswolds, where stargazing isn’t just an activity – it’s a portal to another world. On clear nights, you can spot the Andromeda Galaxy – a whopping 2.5 million light-years away – with the naked eye from certain Cotswold locations!

The Dark Skies Of The Cotswolds
The Dark Skies Of The Cotswolds. Credit: https://www.cotswoldsdistillery.com

Top spots for stellar views:

• Cleeve Hill: The highest point in the Cotswolds, offering panoramic celestial vistas
• Rollright Stones: Ancient stone circle with mystical stargazing vibes
• Broadway Tower: 18th-century folly with unobstructed 360° night sky views

9. Lake District National Park

The Lake District has some of the darkest skies in England, with up to 1,000 stars visible on a clear night. This UNESCO World Heritage site isn’t just about stunning daytime vistas. It transforms into a celestial amphitheatre after dark.

Lake District National Park
Credit: https://www.dandelionandhoglet.co.uk/local-area/best-places-to-see-the-stars/

Top Stargazing Spots:

  1. Grizedale Forest: A Dark Sky Discovery Site with minimal light pollution.
  2. Wasdale Head: Often called “Britain’s Favourite View” – equally spectacular at night.
  3. Derwentwater: Offers stunning reflections of stars on still waters.

At the heart of its astronomical appeal is the Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre, which regularly hosts dark sky events and astronomy workshops, providing education and hands-on stargazing experiences. The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from tranquil lakeshores to towering mountain peaks, offer a variety of stargazing environments, each with its own distinct charm and perspective on the night sky.

Organisations like Friends of the Lake District are actively pursuing dark sky reserve status from the International Dark-Sky Association. This initiative aims to officially recognise and protect the Lake District’s exceptionally dark skies.

10. RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve

RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve
Credit: https://benorfolk.co.uk/

Nestled along the North Norfolk coast, RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and celestial wonder, making it a prime destination for stargazers. Recognized as a Dark Sky Discovery Site, this reserve boasts minimal light pollution, providing clear views of the night sky.

The diverse ecosystems within the reserve, including salt marshes, freshwater lagoons, and reed beds, create a stunning foreground for astrophotography. On clear, moonless nights, visitors can marvel at the Milky Way stretching across the sky. During periods of high solar activity, there’s even a chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

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