Whether you’re an avid astronomer or looking for a peaceful getaway, a stargazing staycation could be the perfect choice.
There are currently just 18 recognised Dark Sky Reserves worldwide, and incredibly, the UK is home to seven of them. With unparalleled pristine skies and unspoilt views of the night, these destinations are hotspots for catching a glimpse of the cosmos.
Here are some of the best UK Staycation locations around the UK to help you plan your starry getaway.
Cranborne Chase
Where to see the stars With the largest area of darkness of any Dark Sky Reserve in the UK, the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a must visit. From Cley Hill car park, head up the trail to the summit of the ancient hill fort and witness unforgettable views.
Where to stay: A 12-minute car journey will take you to The George Inn, where a 7-night stay in this traditional English inn will cost just £938.
Exmoor National Park
Where to see the stars: Offering some of the darkest skies in the country, Exmoor National Park certainly delivers on a stargazing staycation and Molland Moor is an area not to miss. With open moorland and 360-degree views, you can set up for an evening surrounded by the stars with ease.
Where to stay: Extend your trip and head west to Topsham and you will find The Warehouse, from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays. Stays here start at £949 for a 7-night stay, the perfect sanctuary after a night viewing the stars.
Moores Reserve
Where to see the stars: The Moores reserve, named after famed astrologist Sir Patrick Moore, can be found in the beautiful South Downs National Park and incredibly, is just 100km from the greater London Metropolitan area.
Where to stay: Just a stones throw from the South Downs is The White Horse Pub & Inn where a 7 night stay will cost just £1360.Â
North York Moors National ParkÂ
Where to see the stars: With dramatic landscapes and unpolluted night skies, the North York Moors is a perfect place to go stargazing, with some even catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights! Only a seven-minute drive from the A174 will you find the sleepy hamlet of Kettleness, a perfect stargazing destination.
Where to stay: The Anchorage Cottage, is one of the few holiday cottages in Kettleness and is based only a two-minute walk from stargazing hotspots, with prices around £1350 for 7 nights.Â
Snowdonia National Park
Where to see the stars: One of the darkest places in southern Britain, Snowdonia is a mountainous and dramatic region in Wales. Head to Llyn Geirionydd on the edge of Gwydyr Forest for striking lakeside views of the night sky.
Where to stay: Take a 14-minute drive to Swallow Falls Hotel where you can stay for 7 nights for two adults and a child for £1540.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Where to see the stars: With areas completely free from local light pollution and easy access on public roads, the Yorkshire Dales is a must visit for a stargazing staycation. Head up to Richmond just off the Pennine Way, for some truly incredible views.
Where to stay: Tan Hill Inn, the highest pub in England has camping on-site, with a stay under the starry blanket costing you just £10 a night for a tent plot.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Where to see the stars:Â A secluded spot for an evening stargazing, Usk reservoir flaunts impressive views of the skyline and has a large area perfect for setting up a telescope.
Where to stay: Just an 11-minute drive east, will take you to Ynysfaen Camping site where you can stay in a luxury Shepherds Hut for £630 for 7 nights.Â