Last weekend, millions of Brits witnessed the rare sight of the Northern Lights, with sightings reported as far south as England and Wales. This extraordinary event highlighted the UK’s potential for stargazing holidays.
However, for those looking to experience the wonders of the night sky more regularly, Northumberland Dark Sky Park has been named the best destination in the UK for an astronomy-themed holiday.
Photography retailer Jessops conducted an analysis of Britain’s 19 dark sky reserves, selecting Northumberland Dark Sky Park as the top spot based on the number of stargazing events, viewing locations, and accommodation options. This area is renowned for its low levels of light pollution, which provides some of the most pristine dark skies in England.
Northumberland Dark Sky Park, established in 2013, covers 572 square miles of Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water and Forest Park. On a clear night, visitors can see the Milky Way and even the Andromeda Galaxy, which is 2.5 million light years away, with the naked eye.
As reported in the Metro UK, the park features 20 observation points and hosts 19 annual stargazing events, making it a prime location for astronomy enthusiasts.
Among the top spots for stargazing in the park is Kielder Observatory, which boasts a 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor. One visitor, Liz M, described the experience as “jaw-dropping,” noting a moment of sheer amazement during her visit.
Battlesteads Dark Sky Observatory is another highlight, offering year-round activities, talks, and courses. Positive reviews from visitors like Stevo1812 and Ricky M praised the observatory, calling it an “awesome” and “incredible” experience.
Stargazing is just one part of a holiday in Northumberland. The region is rich in history, with must-see sites such as Alnwick Castle, the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK and a filming location for the Harry Potter films.
Other historical sites include Bamburgh Castle, Warkworth Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, and Hadrian’s Wall, which can be explored via hiking trails and museums.
For those seeking natural beauty, Northumberland’s beaches, such as Seahouses, Alnmouth, and Beadnell Bay, offer stunning views and activities like kitesurfing and paddleboarding.
The Farne Islands, just off the North Sea, are home to inquisitive seals, clown-billed puffins, and around 100,000 other seabirds. Visitors can also explore Holy Island, the tidal island of Lindisfarne, with its medieval castle and Gertrude Jekyll Garden.
When it comes to accommodation, Northumberland offers a variety of options, from hotels and B&Bs to campsites and glamping facilities. The UK’s National Parks have partnered with Sykes Holiday Cottages to offer 951 properties in the region. The Redesdale Arms has been awarded “Dark Sky Stay and Gaze” by Northumberland Tourism for its stargazing facilities.
For those planning a trip to Northumberland, the best way to reach the more remote attractions is by car. The journey from London or the southeast takes around six hours, while Carlisle and Edinburgh are less than two hours away.
The Hadrian’s Wall Country Bus AD122 and services from Arriva, Go North East, and Stagecoach link major attractions to Newcastle and Carlisle.
While astronomical events occur year-round, the best stargazing months are during autumn and winter when the evenings draw in early. However, summer offers better weather, with average maximum temperatures of 18°C in July compared to less than 7°C in December and January.
Visitors can check the websites for Kielder Observatory, Battlesteads Observatory, or Twice Brewed Stargazing for event details or use the SkyView Free app to know what to expect from the skies during their visit.
Northumberland Dark Sky Park provides an exceptional stargazing experience, complemented by rich historical and natural attractions. It stands out as the ideal destination for those looking to combine their love of astronomy with a memorable holiday.