Making the Most of Northumberland’s Dark Skies After Sunset
Stargazing may sound daunting to beginners, but anyone can do it. Discover a range of experiences — from guided telescope sessions to night-time stays in Northumberland beneath some of the UK’s darkest skies. All you need are our expert tips on spectacular stargazing in Northumberland experiences. Let an expert lead the way, head out on your own with a flask and a pair of binoculars, or sleep beneath the clear night skies in our International Dark Sky Reserve.
Take to the telescope at Northumberland’s observatories, which are perfectly positioned to give the best possible chance to gaze at the galaxy. Their private stargazing experience nights allow you to do so with an expert by your side, and they offer everything from beginners’ experiences to dining under the stars evenings, where you can enjoy Northumberland dining while you graze and gaze at the darkest skies.
Follow up your stargazing with a pint or stargaze until you fall asleep when you visit Northumberland. As well as our observatories, we have hearty pubs in Northumberland, intimate Inns, B&Bs and Northumbrian glamping cabins that sit beneath the International Dark Sky Park and make for superb, star-filled stays.
The county is also home to many Dark Sky Discovery Sites, where you can stargaze in Northumberland independently (and for free!). Northumberland Dark Sky Discovery Sites are destinations that are internationally recognised for their minimal light pollution, clear view of the sky and their public access. Each one has been awarded special status due to the outstanding quality of its dark skies. All you need to do is pull up, turn off your headlights and enjoy the show.
