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You are here > Home > Things to Do > Stargazing in the North Pennines
Some of the darkest skies in England are found in the North Pennines. Much of the area is remote, wild countryside with little development and the views of the night sky are second to none.
During the winter months (the best time for stargazing) the constellation of Orion can be seen in the sky from almost everywhere in the National Landscape. Clear views of the Milky Way can also be seen with the naked eye from more remote locations in the area.
In recognition of its spectacular dark skies, the North Pennines National Landscape Partnership has worked with Edinburgh Observatory to designate 16 official Dark Sky Discovery Sites - more than any other Protected Landscape in the UK. Each of these locations has been recognised as a fantastic place for amateur and professional astronomers to stargaze.
More information on Dark Sky Discovery Sites can be found at www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk
Interested in having a go at stargazing? Check out the upcoming dark sky events for inspiration.
2023 (1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023) |
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2024 (1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024) |
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North Pennines National Landscape, IreshopeburnThe North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt parts of England. As well as being an AONB the North Pennines is also a UNESCO Global Geopark – an accolade awarded to areas across the world with outstanding geology. Areas of Outstanding Natural…
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