STARGAZING HOLIDAYS IN THE UK
When the clocks go back, in October and the nights become dark earlier it is one of the best times to take a stargazing holiday in the UK. Around this time the Milky Way is overhead in the evening, resembling a shimmering river of stars. Also, meteor showers like the Leonids can put a good show on in November.
The North York Moors is an International Dark Sky Reserve, awarded by the International Dark-Sky Association making it a great place to take a stargazing holiday in the UK. To celebrate the North York Moors organise all manner of events during October including some fabulous night walks along the coast and stargazing with experts. You can learn how to navigate the night sky and identify contellations with experienced astronomers who's passion for the night skies is infectious! We recommend these events for budding astronomers...
October Star Gazing at Dalby Forest with the Astro Dog team (also available in November).
We also like the sound of these moonlit walks at Robin Hood’s Bay. Night walking is a wonderful mood booster and can help combat winter blues and make you feel exhilarated. This is because your primary sense - sight - takes a back seat while all your other senses come alive. Take a coastal walk and you will hear the rhythmical sound of waves on the shore more keenly; smell salty sea air and feel the breeze against your skin. Walking with a guide you will learn more about the earth, stars and planets and a little bit about the geology of this coastline too. If this sounds right up your galaxy then be sure to book via the links early, because places are limited on the following dates.
2nd Nov 2024 6:45 pm - Dark Skies Festival Night Walk Robin Hood’s Bay with Large Outdoors.
16th November 7.45 – 10.45 pm - Moonlit Coastal Walk with Adventures for the Soul.
Why not extend your experience by booking a dark skies friendly accommodation like Sea Fern Cottage. The garden is wonderfully enclosed and dark, plus we provide garden chairs and blankets for use on the patio until the end of November. Guests have access to our binoculars, star charts and free Wi-Fi, so that you can use apps like Stellarium on a smart phone to identify and locate constellations. The picture below was taken using the Stellarium app and we think it's a great way to bring the night sky to life and teach children how the constellations got their names.
Mention 'stargazing' in your enquiry and we will reply with our top tips for things to do to make the most of your stargazing holiday adventure.
