Dark Skies

The Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) say the star-studded skies above Kielder are the darkest in England.

They are so dark, that together with our partners Northumberland National Park and Kielder Observatory Astronomical Society, we were awarded Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Skies Association (IDA) in December 2013 – the highest accolade the IDA can give.

At nearly 580sq miles, the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, is the first of its kind in England and one of the largest Gold Tier Dark Sky Parks in the world, placing us in the same company as the likes of Death Valley and Big Bend Dark Sky Parks in the USA.

Our Dark Sky Park status means our night skies will be kept free from light pollution and allows us to create more opportunities for people to see the magnificence of a truly dark sky, to experience the enormity and sense of wonder and be inspired by billions of stars.

It is estimated that 85% of the UK population has never seen a truly dark sky. At Kielder, weather permitting, that picture awaits.

For more information on Northumberland Dark Sky Park, go to:

Kielder Observatory

Located in some of the darkest skies in Europe and the third largest protected Dark Sky reserve in the world, Kielder Observatory is one of the most remarkable places to visit in the UK.

The primary function of the observatory is outreach via public events. The goal being to bring in members of the public of all ages to engage in discussions and observations of the Universe. This is done in a way that is friendly, informative and interesting, through their amazing team of astronomers, guest speakers and volunteers.

Events are extremely popular and places are limited, so you will need to reserve your space in advance. Have a look at the Kielder Observatory website for more details and to book tickets.

Dark Sky Discovery Locations

If you cannot get to a Kielder Observatory event, there are a number of other designated Dark Sky Discovery locations across the destination where the view can be just as great. These are at:

• Elf Kirk Viewpoint
• Hawkhope Car Park
• Tower Knowe Visitor Centre (lower car park)
• The Stell at Falstone (see Art & Architecture pages)
• Tarset Village Hall
• Stonehaugh Stargazing Pavilion
• Kielder Campsite

The best time for stargazing is during the autumn and winter months, when the nights draw in. Pack your binoculars, a deckchair, a snack, a hot drink and sit back and enjoy a star-studded show.

For hints and tips on stargazing see our:

Northumberland Dark Sky Park leaflet.

Kielder Campsite hosts an annual Kielder Forest Star Camp which takes place in Autumn. For more details go to:

Kielder Forest Star Camp - Autumn 2024 - Go Stargazing

Other astronomical events throughout Kielder . . . and beyond! . . . will be listed in the Events section of this website.