The latitude of the United Kingdom is relatively high, so the thickness of the atmosphere is also thin, and the visibility is high. It is a country suitable for watching stars. The fact is that several places in the UK have been recognised by the IDSA (International Dark-Sky Association) as feng shui gems for stargazing, especially the remote areas of Scotland and Wales. In fact, you don't have to go to such a remote country in the UK to see the super clear and bright starry sky. Follow this article to see the stars in the UK.
1. Galloway Forest Park
Galloway Forest Park is the largest forest park in the UK, just a few hours drive from Glasgow. The most popular stargazing spot in the park is Loch Trool, but the Wigtownshire Cosmos Society also recommends The Machars.
According to the official website of the park, stargazing here can give you a sense of stargazing that is 50 times that of the normal British starry sky, and it is also a stargazing place officially recognized and recommended by IDSA.
Address: Creebridge, Newton Stewert, Dumfries and Galloway DG8 6AJ
2. Exmoor National Park and Around
Exmoor is also a place designated as a Dark Sky Reserve by IDSA in 2011. In order to attract more amateur astronomers, the light source here is strictly controlled.
The locals are also enjoying themselves, living a stable day of sunrise and sunset. In addition to being a starry sky observation site, Exmoor is also a seaside town with breathtaking cliffs. It is said that the sea breeze and starry sky here nourish Wordsworth's poetry.
In addition, there is a town called Blackdown Hills near Exmoor, where astronomer Simon Ould has held many star observation activities.
Address: Exmoor National Park Authority, Exmoor House, Dulverton, Somerset TA22 9HL
3. Castle Combe
Castle Combe is also said to be the most beautiful town in the UK, but what few people know is that it is also one of the best places to observe the stars.
The town stipulates that street lights are not allowed on the road because residents feel that street lights will destroy the view of the starry sky. What's more, the starry sky here is matched with the traditional architectural style of the town from the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries.
There is only one main street in the whole town. Time and space are stuck in the Middle Ages. You can't blink, and you will probably miss the knights and white horses passing by.
Plus, there are a lot of celebrities buying homes around town, including Kate Winslet (the heroine of the Titanic), so you might come across them when looking at the stars.
Address: Castle Combe Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14
4. Kielder Forest
The name of Kielder Forest is inconspicuous, but it is the largest forest in England. It is no wonder that this forest is also known as "the darkest place in England". It is no wonder that it is a stargazing paradise. Kielder Forest has also set up an exquisite wooden cabin for stargazers, equipped with modern equipment. I just hope that everyone can say hi to the starry sky in the most comfortable state.
Address: Kielder, Northumberland NE48 1ER
5. North York Moors
Both Scarborough and Ryedale stargazing societies recommend Dalby Forest as a stargazing base in North York. Scarborough's sea breeze and forest starry sky are a good match. And this small town in the east of England can give people the best English countryside experience. The beach, forest and starry sky can be combined to enjoy. On such a beautiful night, remember to make a date with the person you want to meet, and remember to pack food in your backpack!
Address: The Old Vicarage, Bondgate, Helmsley, York, North Yorkshire YO62 5BP
