Embark on a celestial journey like never before at the much-anticipated Dark Skies Festival 🌟
Prepare to be enchanted by the brilliance of the night sky as you join fellow stargazers for an unforgettable experience. This year’s festival promises a constellation of engaging activities and we’ve got all the important info for you.
What is the Dark Skies Festival?
The Dark Skies Festival is a cosmic celebration that invites stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to experience the wonder of the night sky.
During the festival, people gather from far and wide and let the stars take centre stage, away from the hustle and bustle of city lights. The festival events include captivating astronomy talks, hands-on workshops, and mesmerising telescope viewing sessions. It’s a unique opportunity to escape the glow of urban life and embrace the beauty of dark skies.
Beyond the celestial show, these events aim to spread awareness about the importance of preserving our natural nightscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just a casual admirer of the cosmos, the Dark Skies Festival is a chance to connect with the night sky.
The UK’s International Dark Sky Reserve
Where to go stargazing in the National Parks?
✨ Lake District National Park
✨ North York Moors National Park
✨ Northumberland National Park
✨ Peak District National Park
✨ South Downs National Park
✨ Yorkshire Dales National Park
✨ Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)
✨ Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
✨ Cairngorms National Park
✨ Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)
✨ Exmoor National Park
Upcoming 2025 events
North York Moors
🌟 Dark Skies Festival Night Walk Robin Hood’s Bay – This coastal walk begins and ends in Robin Hood’s Bay, a bustling smuggling hub during the 18th century brimming with tales of thieves and outlaws. This historical backdrop sets the stage for one of the most intriguing walking locations in the National Park. The contrast between the coastal landscape and the constellations overhead creates a unique and unforgettable experience.
🌟 Big Dark Skies Festival Birthday Bash at Sutton Bank – Get ready to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Dark Skies Festival and elevate your stargazing knowledge at Sutton Bank, alongside expert astronomers Richard Darn and Neill Sanders. Beginning at the Nature and Star Hub, discover a beginner-friendly guide to the cosmos as well as fascinating tips on catching the Northern Lights.
Then experience the awe-inspiring views of the night sky for yourself! Capture the magic of the night using an incredible array of astro equipment.
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Yorkshire Dales
🌟 Broughton By Night – For thousands of years, we’ve looked to the skies. And this Dark Skies Festival discover this exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the skies and connect with nature at the Broughton Sanctuary. Joined by astronomer Chris Higgins, explore the intricate wonders of our solar system as you marvel at the cosmos up close.
The Broughton By Night event is £42pp, plus 50% of all bookings contribute to Broughton Sanctuary’s nature recovery program. Meaning you’ll to be part of the conservation efforts while enjoying your celestial exploration.
🌟 Pizza Planet Beginners Bike Activity – Indulge in a unique cosmic experience at the Firebox Cafe at Stage 1 Cycles. You’ll start your afternoon with some cooking fun in the Firebox Cafe, making your own delicious pizza creation. Then work up an appetite with a fascinating bike ride tour following a star trail and spotting planets. This bike ride is completely traffic-free, making it the perfect activity for beginner cyclists. Parents are encouraged to walk alongside their children – but don’t forget to book a bike and helmet!
🌟 Introduction to the Wonders of the Night Sky – Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered what all those twinkling lights are? Ever dreamed of being able to identify constellations and navigate by the stars? Well, the wait is over! Join the Yorkshire Dales National Park’s informative “Introduction to the Wonders of the Night Sky”.
This special session, led by the Friends of the Dales and the Keighley Astronomical Society, is perfect for anyone curious about the universe. It’s part learning, part hands-on adventure! You’ll learn the basics of astronomy, how to “read” star charts and even create your own planisphere. Perfect for kids over six and adults alike, this event caters to beginners and novice stargazers. Tickets are just £5 (free for those under 18).
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