Exmoor National Park is a dream destination for stargazers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, the park offers a unique blend of natural beauty during the day and mesmerizing night skies after dark.
As one of the first International Dark Sky Reserves in Europe, Exmoor is recognized for having some of the clearest, most unpolluted skies in the UK. In this guide, we’ll show you why Exmoor is the perfect spot for stargazing, the best times to visit, top stargazing locations, and other exciting things to do while you’re here.
Why Exmoor National Park is Perfect for Stargazing
Exmoor’s Dark Sky Reserve status makes it an ideal place for stargazing. This designation is awarded to areas that have worked to preserve dark skies by reducing light pollution, providing optimal conditions for viewing the stars. In Exmoor, you can experience the night sky as it was meant to be seen, with millions of stars, distant planets, and even the glowing band of the Milky Way clearly visible on a clear night.
One of the most magical aspects of stargazing in Exmoor is the range of celestial sights on offer. Depending on the time of year, you can witness meteor showers, planets such as Jupiter and Saturn, and even the International Space Station as it moves across the sky. The park’s remote location, away from the city lights, allows for breathtaking, unobstructed views of the heavens.
The Best Time to Visit Exmoor National Park for Stargazing
While Exmoor is a fantastic place to visit year-round, certain seasons offer better conditions for stargazing. The best time to visit Exmoor National Park for stargazing is during the autumn and winter months. From October through March, the nights are longer and darker, providing more time to take in the night sky. Autumn often brings crisp, clear skies, while winter offers the longest nights.
For the best stargazing experience, plan your visit around the new moon when the skies are at their darkest. This allows the stars and planets to shine even brighter, without the interference of moonlight. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of Exmoor’s stunning meteor showers, such as the Perseids in August or the Geminids in December.
Exmoor also hosts special events such as the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival, which typically takes place in October or November. This event features guided stargazing sessions, talks from astronomy experts, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect time to visit if you want to learn more about the night sky.
Best Stargazing Spots in Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park has numerous excellent locations for stargazing, thanks to its diverse landscapes and varying elevations. Here are a few top spots that offer prime views of the night sky:
- Dunkery Beacon: The highest point in Exmoor, Dunkery Beacon offers sweeping, 360-degree views, making it one of the best places for stargazing. Its elevation and remote location ensure minimal light pollution, and the hike to the summit is well worth the effort for the spectacular celestial display.
- Valley of Rocks: For those looking for a dramatic backdrop to their stargazing experience, the Valley of Rocks is an excellent choice. With its rugged terrain and cliffs, this area not only offers stunning daytime scenery but also a secluded spot for enjoying the night sky.
Each of these spots has been selected for their dark sky quality, ease of access, and natural beauty, making them ideal locations to set up a telescope or simply lie back and enjoy the stars.
What to Bring for Stargazing in Exmoor
A successful stargazing trip requires some preparation to make the most of your experience. Here are some essentials to bring:
- Binoculars or a telescope: While you can see many stars with the naked eye, having binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience by allowing you to see more distant objects like planets and nebulae.
- Warm clothing: Even in the summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Be sure to wear warm, layered clothing, especially if you’re planning to spend several hours outdoors.
- Red-filtered flashlight: A red flashlight helps preserve your night vision while allowing you to read maps or adjust your telescope without disturbing others with bright light.
Safety Tips and Stargazing Etiquette
While stargazing in Exmoor, it’s essential to follow a few safety tips and be mindful of others:
- Stick to marked paths: Even in the dark, it’s important to stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment or getting lost.
- Bring extra batteries: Ensure your flashlight or headlamp has enough power to last the night.
- Respect others: If you’re in a popular stargazing spot, be mindful of fellow stargazers. Avoid using bright lights and keep noise levels low to preserve the peaceful atmosphere.
For those looking to combine their love of hiking and stargazing, Hiiker is the ultimate tool to discover Exmoor’s best hiking trails, many of which lead to breathtaking viewpoints perfect for stargazing. Plan your visit, pack your binoculars, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of Exmoor’s night skies.
