New research has shed light on England’s dark skies, pinpointing the best places to see the stars.
Stargazing is one of life’s purest pleasures, inspiring a sense of wonder that few other things can match. Yet in our increasingly switched-on world, with ever-expanding towns and cities, light pollution means that seeing the glorious night sky, with the great celestial swoop of the Milky Way curving across it, can often be tricky – or downright impossible.
In an effort to encourage more people to experience the delights of unhindered stargazing, the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has mapped the night skies, showing the best places to appreciate them.
The resulting map (pictured) shows almost half the UK’s top stargazing spots are in zones protected by National Park status, or in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A huge 96 per cent of Northumberland National Park, for example, has “pristine dark skies”, as does 79 per cent of the North York Moors National Park.
All of which gives another reason for us to shout about some of our more remote youth hostels. The properties on the right are all in locations that lend themselves to spellbinding stargazing. Layer up and enjoy…
Six star gazing accommodation options:
YHA The Sill at Hadrian’s Wall
Northumberland has the highest proportion of pristine dark skies in England. The 86-bed hostel, to be opened this year, is located in the National Park. Also try: YHA Wooler.
In Cumbria, an impressive 62 per cent of night skies fall into the darkest category. YHA Honister Hause is one of the most remote properties in the region. Also try: YHA Black Sail.
Shropshire is another county with high levels of dark skies. Don’t miss the Grade I Elizabethan house YHA Wilderhope Manor. Also try: YHA Clun Mill.
Exmoor National Park was designated Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve in 2011, and YHA Exford sits in the heart of it. Also try: YHAMinehead.
YHA Brecon Beacons Danywenallt
Brecon Beacons National Park is another official Dark Sky Reserve – you’ll find three hostels and a bunkhouse to choose from. Also try: YHA Brecon Beacons.
The East of England benefits from plenty of dark skies. YHA Sheringham is a superb option to introduce the kids to the night canopy. Also try: YHA Hunstanton.
