Celebrate 10 years of the North York Moors Dark Skies Festival in 2025
The North York Moors Dark Skies Festival is back for its 10th year, running from 14 February to 2 March 2025, and it’s the perfect time to experience some of the UK’s best stargazing events, destinations and accommodations. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful getaway, this festival offers exciting events, incredible night skies, and the opportunity to enjoy a stargazing staycation in the heart of the North York Moors National Park.
As an International Dark Sky Reserve, the North York Moors offers some of the clearest night skies in the UK. Away from city lights, this haven provides ideal conditions for spotting constellations, planets, meteor showers and even the northern lights. The Dark Skies Festival brings together both seasoned astronomers and curious newcomers to explore the cosmos and celebrate the beauty of the night sky.
This festival is packed with a variety of events, perfect for all ages and interests. Here are a few highlights that you won’t want to miss:
While the Dark Skies Festival offers incredible events, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a stargazing staycation in one of the North York Moors' Dark Skies Friendly accommodations. From cosy cottages to charming bed-and-breakfasts, you can relax in the countryside while being close to the best stargazing spots.
And, while the festival’s events will guide you to some fantastic stargazing locations, here are a few top spots to check out during your visit: Sutton Bank offers incredible views and minimal light pollution, perfect for spotting constellations; Danby Moor is a peaceful, remote spot with sweeping views of the sky; Dalby Forest is a dark woodland area with clearings ideal for stargazing and Rosedale, a quiet village with stunning views of the northern sky, perfect for spotting the Northern Lights!
Check out our full programme of events and join us in February to celebrate 10 years of stunning stargazing skies.