Best time to visit: the best time for stargazing is September through March; Welsh Dark Skies Week is February 9th to 18th, 2024
Where to stay: Under an hour’s drive away, book The Bell at Skenfrith, to cosy up after braving the Welsh wilds. Set under the stars, by the River Monnow, the snug-as-a-bug pub with rooms is just the ticket – think cosy-classic rooms, crisp linens, and delicious dishes. Try the Monmouthshire lamb, the pub warrants its Michelin mention.
CairngormsGetty Images
Tomintoul and Glenlivet, Cairngorms, Scotland
In the Scottish Highlands, the Cairngorms – Tomintoul and Glenlivet – are the best places for stargazing. Why? There have been sightings of the Northern Lights. The otherworldly skies and rugged landscape add an element of drama to the whole experience. In the wonderfully wild Cairngorms, there are plenty of stargazing opportunities, especially at Blairfindy Moor in Glenlivet (read: yes, that’s its name) – you might be wowed by the Milky Way. Check out the cool-as astronomy club and telescope moon viewing sessions.
Best time to visit: year-round stargazing and astronomy events
Where to stay: Book The Fife Arms at Braemar, set near the Cairngorms. The decadent inn with four sumptuous bedrooms is steeped in Scottish history and adorned with beautiful art. Located at the core of the village – there’s a fun local crowd, an animated bar and a coveted restaurant. It’s a welcoming place you won’t want to depart from.
OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory
OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory, Davagh Sperrin Mountains, Northern Ireland
The ethereal beauty of the flickering night lights above the wild forest in Northern Ireland’s Sperrin Mountains is hypnotic – the conditions are practically perfect for stargazing. In Davagh Forest, the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory cover the connection between the resident Beaghmore Stones (Neolithic stone circles) and the stars – with a rich history – on its brilliant tour about the link between archaeology and astronomy. Prepare to be dazzled.
Best time to visit: year-round
Where to stay: Book an artful glamping pod at Sperrinview Glamping perfectly situated a mile from Davagh Forest, at the foot of the mountains. Each space has a spectacular viewing window – lie in bed and don’t forget to look up at the stars.
