You’re packing up your car and planning the ultimate UK road trip, but where should you go, and what should you do along the way? If stargazing under breathtaking night skies sounds like your kind of adventure, now’s the perfect time to map out the best spots for an unforgettable journey.
To catch the most spectacular views, you’ll need to escape the glow of city lights, an ideal excuse to explore hidden gems across the UK. Fortunately, the UK is home to some of the world’s best dark-sky reserves and remote locations, offering a stunning backdrop to unwind and witness the magic of the night sky.
And let’s be honest, road trips don’t always go as planned. But isn’t that part of the fun? Taking a wrong turn could lead you to the best view of the sky you’ve ever seen. Whether you’re setting off on a solo adventure, a family getaway, or a romantic escape, embracing the unexpected makes the journey just as memorable as the destination.
What is Stargazing and Why You Should Include It in Your Trip
Stargazing is the act of observing the night sky to see celestial objects such as stars, planets, and the moon. It can be done with the naked eye or with tools like binoculars or telescopes.
Planning stargazing into your journey gives you the chance to experience the night sky in places with minimal light pollution, meaning clearer, more impressive views. It’s a simple yet rewarding way to make the most of your road trip and enjoy something that doesn’t require much more than a good location and clear skies.
How to Choose the Perfect Stargazing Spot
When planning your road trip and stargazing stop-offs, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you’re picking the perfect spot.
- Light Pollution: Light pollution is the biggest obstacle to stargazing, especially in busier city areas. The darker the sky, the better your chances of seeing stars. Locations with a higher magnitude (mag/arcsec²) are ideal as these numbers indicate less light interference. Mag/arcsec² is a unit used in astronomy to measure the brightness of the night sky or the surface brightness of an astronomical object – the lower the value, the brighter the sky or object. Dark-sky parks, reserves, or remote locations far from city lights are perfect for an uninterrupted view.
- Location: Opt for areas that are as remote as possible, but also make sure they are safe and accessible. The best spots are typically in national parks, coastal areas, or the countryside, where you’re away from the bright lights of city life.
- Nearby Amenities: If you’re heading to remote areas, make sure that there are essential amenities nearby, such as accommodation, food stops, or petrol stations, especially if you’re venturing into more rural areas.
Top 5 Best UK Stargazing Destinations
Here are some of the best places in the UK to get lost in and witness the night sky in its full glory, where light pollution is at a minimum and the stars shine the brightest.
Aberdaron, Wales
Aberdaron, located in the far northwest of Wales, offers one of the darkest skies in the UK, with a light pollution level of 21.89 mag/arcsec². This remote location ensures minimal light pollution, with its rugged coastline adding to the beauty of a star-filled night. The area provides an excellent opportunity for observing celestial wonders with unobstructed views of the stars.
Clovelly, Devon
Clovelly, a charming village in Devon is another fantastic stargazing destination. With a light pollution level of 21.82 mag/arcsec², the coastal location and low light pollution make it a hidden gem for those looking to view the stars. Its idyllic setting and quiet streets create a calming environment perfect for a peaceful evening of stargazing.
Ullswater, Lake District
Ullswater, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, offers stunning landscapes and clear skies. With a light pollution level of 21.72 mag/arcsec², its remote location ensures you’ll have an unobstructed view of the night sky. Perfect for a stargazing road trip, Ullswater provides ample opportunities to enjoy the stars above as well as its picturesque lake.
Grasmere, Lake District
Grasmere, also located in the Lake District, has a light pollution level of 21.66 mag/arcsec². The peaceful rural location, combined with its close proximity to dark skies, makes it another excellent spot for stargazing. You can easily spend hours soaking in the beauty of the stars while enjoying the quaint village setting.
Port Isaac, Cornwall
Port Isaac, located on the Cornwall coast, offers stunning views of the stars with a light pollution level of 21.65 mag/arcsec². Its remote setting means the night skies here are clear and dark, making it a perfect destination for stargazing. The picturesque coastal village is also a charming place to explore during the day before heading out to view the star-speckled sky at night.
Expert Tips for an Unforgettable Stargazing Experience
You’ve found the perfect location – now it’s time to plan properly to get the most out of the experience.
Bring the Right Equipment
While you can enjoy stargazing with just your eyes, a pair of binoculars or a telescope can enhance your experience. If you’re serious about observing constellations or planets, investing in some gear is a great idea. For those visiting multiple stargazing spots, consider a portable setup that’s easy to transport.
It can also get chilly at night, even during the summer months, so make sure to bring warm clothes and blankets. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you’re walking on uneven terrain to find the perfect spot.
Essentials to Pack
- Binoculars or telescope
- A star map or stargazing app
- Blankets for extra warmth
- A flashlight with a red filter to preserve night vision
- Warm and comfortable clothing
Check the Moon Phases
The moon can sometimes drown out the stars with its brightness. Plan your trip during a new moon or crescent phase for the best visibility, especially if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of fainter objects like nebulae or galaxies.
Safety First
When heading to remote locations, it’s always best to bring a friend, stay aware of your surroundings, and let someone know where you’re going. The dark can be disorienting, and some of the best stargazing spots are quite isolated.
Check the Weather
The weather can dramatically affect your stargazing experience. Check the forecast for clear skies before you go. While the UK weather is known to be unpredictable, planning your trip during a dry spell with little to no clouds will give you the best views.
At SIXT, we believe every journey should be as unforgettable as the destination, and if you’re looking for the perfect escape, you can find the best destinations to get lost in. Start your stargazing adventure with SIXT today.
