Top Stargazing Spots in the UK Revealed

A new report analysing the best stargazing destinations in the UK has ranked Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in first place.

The study, conducted by the experts at Select Van Leasing, determined the best stargazing locations by comparing a number of different factors, including an area’s ‘Dark Sky’ status, expert recommendations, elevation, and the number of campervan-friendly campsites for those wanting to explore in a motorhome.

Travelling in a campervan is a great way to explore these areas, as it helps you discover all the different stargazing locations in just one trip. 

Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) leads the way as the best stargazing location in the UK, with an overall score of 38.3/50 in the study.

The National Park is famous for its mountains, particularly the highest peak in Wales and England Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), and boasts 90 summits over 2,000ft, which are ideal to get a better view of the stars.

The park was officially recognised as an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2015, which is in recognition of the significant efforts to reduce light pollution and the wonderful dark skies that are now protected.

The research also discovered that there are 8 recommended stargazing sites across the Park, including Bwlch y Groes,Cwm Cynfal viewpoint, and Llyn Geirionydd. A great way to explore these recommended sites is via campervan, which is easily accessible as 109 of their 155 campsites are campervan friendly (70%).

Next up with an overall score of 37.1/50 is Cairngorms National Park, which secures second place in the ranking.

The largest National Park in the UK, The Cairngorms covers a whopping 4,500 square km of unspoiled countryside and contains 55 Munros – the name given to Scottish mountains with a height over 3,000 feet.

The area also received its International Dark Sky Reserve status in November 2018 thanks to the high quality of the night skies. Additionally, 19 of the 25 campsites in and around the National Park are campervan-friendly (76%).

Claiming third place in the ranking is Northumberland National Park, with an overall score of 36.1/50.

Thanks to its pristine dark skies and dedication to their preservation, Northumberland National Park, along with most of Kielder Water & Forest Park, became England’s first International Dark Sky Park in 2013. It also holds the distinction of being Europe’s largest protected area of night sky.

The area also has a whopping 64 recommended stargazing sites, the highest in the study. These include Stonehaugh Stargazing Pavilion & Observatory, The Stell at Falstone, and Wooler Common.

See how the top 10 areas rank in the study:

Your Guide to Forest Bathing