Best UK Destinations for Stargazing and Catching the Northern Lights (If You’re Lucky!)
Attractions | Outdoor Activities | Pub Accommodation | Staycation | Uk Pubs | Posted 2024.10.30
The United Kingdom might not be known for tropical weather, but when it comes to breathtaking night skies, it’s a haven for stargazers. With dark sky reserves and national parks across the country, you’ll find some of the most awe-inspiring celestial displays. From the glittering Milky Way to the elusive Northern Lights, these top spots offer some of the best stargazing opportunities, and who knows—if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis!
Here’s a guide to the best stargazing locations across the UK:
Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park
This park in Wales, formerly known as the Brecon Beacons, is one of the UK’s first designated International Dark Sky Reserves. Located in South Wales, Bannau Brycheiniog is far from major cities, offering unpolluted skies perfect for observing the Milky Way, meteor showers, and distant galaxies. The park has multiple accessible stargazing points and local astronomy events make it a great spot for both beginners and seasoned astronomers.
On rare occasions, particularly during strong geomagnetic storms, The Northern Lights have been spotted here!
Treat yourself to a stay in The Royal Oak Hotel, a historic coaching inn located in the market town of Welshpool, just four miles from the English border. Nestled in the town’s centre, this Tudor-style pub provides all-day dining and features an on-site coffee shop. Its elegantly designed rooms cater to families, solo travellers, couples, and business guests alike.
Book your stay here: The Royal Oak Hotel
Northumberland International Dark Sky Park
Home to the darkest skies in England, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park spans Kielder Forest and Northumberland National Park. It’s the largest area of protected night sky in Europe, offering an uninterrupted view of the cosmos. The lack of light pollution makes it a prime spot for viewing meteor showers, planets, and distant galaxies.
The park’s northern location increases your chances of catching the Northern Lights, especially in autumn and winter when the skies are clearest.
Book a stay at The Twice Brewed Inn, nestled in the heart of rural Northumberland and just a short walk from Hadrian’s Wall. The inn offers a charming retreat surrounded by stunning landscapes, welcoming to both families and dogs, the pub features 23 cosy rooms and lies within the renowned Dark Sky Park. With its own on-site Brew House, it’s the perfect basecamp for walkers, cyclists, families, couples, and business travellers alike.
Book your stay here: The Twice Brewed Inn
Cairngorms Dark Sky Park
The Cairngorms in Scotland is the largest national park in the UK, and it is home to a certified Dark Sky Park that offers some of the best stargazing in the Highlands. With almost no light pollution, this park is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the celestial wonders of the universe.
Keep your eyes peeled in the northern parts of the park—you might just witness the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis if conditions are right!
Book a stay in The Meikleour Arms, a boutique pub, restaurant, and hotel with a touch of French flair, located in the charming conservation village of Meikleour. It features 11 beautifully appointed rooms and 16 additional cottages. Surrounded by stunning countryside, famous for its magnificent trees and excellent salmon fishing, the property is also conveniently close to Perth, Scone Palace, and Dunkeld.
Book your stay here: The Meikleour Arms
Cambrian Mountains
Often referred to as the ‘Green Desert of Wales,’ the Cambrian Mountains are one of the most remote regions in the UK. With wide open spaces and clear horizons, these mountains are an ideal stargazing destination. The isolation from light pollution makes it easy to observe planets, shooting stars, and deep sky objects like star clusters and nebulae.
Though rare, sightings of the Northern Lights have been reported from these high-altitude points in Wales.
Book a stay at the Y Talbot, which has been named the AA’s 2024 “Inn of the Year for Wales.” This highly acclaimed, dog- and family-friendly inn is located in the market town of Tregaron. Guests can savour seasonally inspired cuisine alongside a selection of Welsh beers, ciders, and cask ales. With 13 comfortable en-suite rooms, it’s an ideal base for exploring tranquil mountain roads, scenic trails, and the stunning Ceredigion coastline.
Book your stay here: Y Talbot
Exmoor International Dark Sky Reserve
Exmoor National Park in southwest England is home to the first International Dark Sky Reserve in Europe. Its combination of coastal views and open moorland makes for a stunning setting to admire the night sky. Whether you’re attending an astronomy festival or simply setting up your telescope on a quiet night, Exmoor offers a magical stargazing experience.
The park is too far south for consistent Northern Lights sightings, but its inky-black skies make it perfect for observing the Milky Way and other celestial delights.
Book a stay at The Exmoor Forest Inn, nestled in the heart of Exmoor, in the secluded and untouched village of Simonsbath. Recently refurbished in 2022, this dog-friendly pub offers ten beautifully appointed double rooms and a family suite. Its renowned restaurant serves delicious, sustainable, and locally sourced dishes. Situated in a sheltered valley, the pub is surrounded by towering hills and pristine moorland.
Book your stay here: The Exmoor Forest Inn
With its abundant dark sky locations and scenic landscapes, the UK is a stargazer’s dream. There’s no shortage of places to lose yourself in the wonders of the night sky. And with a bit of luck, the elusive Northern Lights might just make an appearance to light up your celestial journey!
Written by Lucille Skinner
Social Media Assistant