A Dark Sky Reserve is a protected area awarded by DarkSky International that restricts artificial light pollution to preserve the natural darkness and beauty of the sky. 

To qualify as a Dark Sky Reserve, an area must have effective lighting management plans to control light pollution and demonstrate a commitment to public education about the importance of dark skies.

These reserves are often located in remote locations, away from the bright lights of urban areas. This not only increases opportunities for astronomy but also supports the well-being of wildlife that can be affected by excessive artificial lighting.

As of May 2024, there are over 200 Dark Sky Places worldwide, with the UK being home to 19 of these, according to DarkSky.

Northumberland Dark Sky Park

With 20 observation points, 19 annual events, and plenty of stargazing-friendly accommodations, Northumberland Dark Sky Park claims the top spot for stargazing in the UK.

In 2013, Northumberland National Park and most of Kielder Water and Forest Park became a Dark Sky Park. 

The park spans 572 square miles, and 96% of it enjoys very low levels of light pollution, according to Go Stargazing, so you can observe the stars in all their glory. You can even see the Milky Way stretch across the sky on moonless nights!

Image by Charlie Seaman on Unsplash

South Downs Dark Sky Reserve

South Downs National Park, despite being just 90 minutes from the brightly lit city of London, is renowned for its clear, dark skies.

It was designated as a Dark Sky Reserve in 2016 and has since become a magnet for astronomers from all over the country. 

The park hosts 30 annual stargazing events and boasts 15 prime viewing locations across the region. One of the standout spots is Bignor Hill, known for being one of the darkest and highest points in the area, offering breathtaking views of the night sky.

Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve

Exmoor National Park, with its moorlands, woodlands, rivers, and coastal areas in west Somerset and north Devon, is stunning by day. But it’s at night that the magic truly happens, thanks to the incredibly dark skies and minimal light pollution.

The best time to visit is late October, when the skies are at their darkest. Plus, the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival usually runs throughout October and is packed with plenty of events and activities, like astrophotography walks and talks designed for beginners to stargazing.

The park offers 13 accommodation options, most of which have undergone dark skies training and have been accredited as Dark Sky Friendly businesses. This training is all about keeping light pollution low so you get the best possible views of the night sky.

North York Moors Dark Sky Reserve

North York Moors National Park was designated a Dark Sky Reserve in 2020, making it one of the best places in the country to see stars, moons, planets and more. You can see over 2,000 stars in the darkest parts of the park at any one time!

It has 21 observational spots for viewing and 10 stargazing-friendly accommodation to pick from.

Yorkshire Dales Dark Sky Reserve

Yorkshire Dales National Park is the largest Dark Sky Reserve in the UK. To qualify as a Dark Sky Reserve, an area must ensure at least 67% of its properties are dark sky friendly. Impressively, 90% of residential properties in the Yorkshire Dales already met this criteria when it was designated in 2020.

There are 17 places to stay, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. Plus, there are five observation points where you can spot the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the Northern Lights!

Image by Jonny Gios on Unsplash

Brecon Beacons Dark Sky Reserve

In 2012, Brecon Beacons National Park became the first location in Wales (and the fifth worldwide) to be recognised as an International Dark Sky Reserve. It boasts 10 stargazing spots and hosts five events throughout the year.

Thanks to the local community's dedication to reducing light pollution, you can enjoy beautifully clear skies that offer fantastic opportunities for astrophotography.

Image by Marcus Woodbridge on Unsplash

Cranborne Chase Dark Sky Reserve

Cranborne Chase, awarded Dark Sky Reserve status in 2019, spans Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire in central southern England. 

It features 10 prime stargazing locations. On a clear night, you can even see the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy.

Bodmin Moor Dark Sky Landscape

Bodmin Moor in Cornwall is a beautiful granite moorland offering plenty of daytime activities like hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. But the magic doesn't fade when the sun sets. Nighttime on the moor draws tourists from all over Europe to observe the breathtaking night skies.

Designated as a Dark Sky Reserve in 2017, Bodmin Moor's celestial beauty is recognised and protected. Cornwall Council is working to inform locals about the economic and cultural importance of preserving the dark skies in this region.

Elan Valley Dark Sky Park

Elan Valley in Wales was awarded Dark Sky Park status in 2015. This means the whole 45,000 acres are protected against light pollution.

If you're looking for some of the darkest skies in the UK for stargazing, this is one of the best places to be!

Snowdonia Dark Sky Reserve

Snowdonia National Park, another gem in Wales, achieved its Dark Sky Reserve status in 2015. Its pristine landscape boasts minimal light pollution, ensuring enchantingly dark skies. On a clear night, you can marvel at all the major constellations, the Milky Way, and shooting stars.

With five designated observation spots, such as Llyn y Dywarchen and Llyn Geirionydd, you can enjoy stargazing from Snowdonia's majestic mountains and foothills. Plus, the park offers six stargazing-friendly accommodation, making it the ideal place to spend the night.

The national park is dedicated to preserving its dark skies by implementing practices like using lights only where necessary and directing them downward to minimise the impact on wildlife.

Image by Neil Mark Thomas on Unsplash

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