Best UK stargazing experiences to try in 2023
These unique stargazing experiences are going to leave you with stars in your eyes.
Amid all the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s very easy to forget to look up every once in a while. If you’re looking for a way to feel grounded while taking in some unforgettable natural beauty, there’s no better option than stargazing.
These unique experiences are a great idea if you’re looking for a family escape with a difference. It’s also a great option for date night - what’s more romantic than sharing a kiss under the stars?
Whether you want to escape from light-polluted cities like London or Manchester, or you simply want to deepen your love of the spectacular British skyscape, you can thank your lucky stars - we’ve selected the top stargazing experiences in the UK to make you feel out of this world.
From the grounds of the famous Brecon Beacons Observatory to the metropolis of London itself, there are plenty of places where you can gaze up at the night sky and wish upon a star.
Here at RadioTimes.com, we're always up-to-date with the latest unique experiences for date night, family days out and more. From the best UK zombie experiences to the best F1 experience days, we've got something for everyone.
Best stargazing gift experiences at a glance
- Stargazing Experience for Two with Dark Sky Wales, £50
- AstroAdventures from £370 (per week)
- West Midlands Stargazing Experience with Dark Sky Telescope Hire, £180
- Stargazing Pods at Alton Towers
- South Downs National Park Stargazing Experience with Dark Sky Telescope Hire, £180
- Three Day Family Stargazing Experience with Dark Sky Wales, £479
- London and Surrey Hills Stargazing Experience for two hours, £180
- Eddington Lodge from £79
Best stargazing experiences in the UK
Stargazing experience for two with Dark Sky Wales
Stargazing gift experiences are best when shared. This romantic Dark Sky Wales package for two allows you and a loved one to venture to the surroundings of the famous Brecon Beacons Observatory with a portable telescope in hand. Not only that, professional astronomers will be on hand to guide you through the stars.
Book Stargazing Experience for Two with Dark Sky Wales for £50 at Virgin Experience Days
AstroAdventures
AstroAdventures, situated in one of the darkest areas of England, gives you the perfect opportunity to combine holiday with astronomy. The North Devon site has two sizable cabins, as well as a large paddock, wildflower meadow, BBQ and swimming pool. You’ll be given a tour of the on-site observatories on arrival, as well as an introductory session on how to use the Dobsonian Reflector telescope.
Once night falls the telescope is all yours for some seriously impressive stargazing experiences- and trust us, these views are worth waiting for.
Book AstroAdventures from £370 per week
West Midlands stargazing experience for two ours with Dark Sky Telescope Hire
This Dark Sky Telescope Hire allows purchasers to observe the beautiful West Midlands skyscape from a choice of two locations: the Clent Hills near Stourbridge or Cannock Chase near Brocton.
Before the tour you’ll receive a gift box with your voucher and a map of stargazing sites, and throughout the stargazing experience, your expert astronomer guide will use a laser pointer to take you through the heavens.
Book West Midlands Stargazing Experience with Dark Sky Telescope Hire for £180
Stargazing pods at Alton Towers
We all know there are plenty of things to do at Alton Towers, from Scarefest to dungeon attractions. You can also add stargazing to the list: the park owns a number of minimalist stargazing pods set around a village green, perfect for anyone searching for a budget family break with a difference.
Riding roller coasters by day and using the on-site telescopes to explore the Milky Way at night; what could be better?
Book Stargazing Pods at Alton Towers
South Downs National Park stargazing experience - two hours
If you fancy heading down south, Dark Sky Telescope Hire has got you covered with their South Downs Stargazing Package. You’ll meet one of the team’s experienced astronomers at a designated meeting point before embarking on a tour of star systems, clusters, nebulae and galaxies with the help of a laser-guided tour and portable telescope. Not only that, one voucher includes stargazing experiences for the purchaser plus up to 15 of their family and friends.
Book South Downs National Park Stargazing Experience with Dark Sky Telescope Hire for £180
Three-day family stargazing experience with Dark Sky Wales
If you really want to make your stargazing experience one to remember, check out this three-day family experience with Dark Sky Wales. This has got to be one of the most unique stargazing experiences in the UK; over the course of three days, you’ll deepen your knowledge of astronomy and astrophotography, tackle basic astronomy equipment and enjoy a stay in a Deluxe Wigwam cabin. It’ll be out of this world.
Book Three Day Family Stargazing Experience with Dark Sky Wales for £479
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London and Surrey Hills stargazing experience for two hours
If you fancy checking out city skies, Dark Sky Telescope Hire offers a unique stargazing experience exploring the nation’s capital and the Surrey Hills. There are various locations on offer here, including Hampstead Heath and Wandsworth Common in London, and Ranmore Common and Newlands Corner in the Surrey Hills.
During the private two hour tour, your guide will use a laser pointer to take you through distant galaxies, red supergiants and more, all taking place just a stone's throw from the capital.
Book London and Surrey Hills Stargazing Experience for 2-Hours for £180
Eddington Lodge
Cornwall is a popular spot for a good British staycation, but did you know it’s also a stargazing hotspot? Eddington Lodge makes the most of this little-known fact by offering its guests amazing stargazing gift experiences, which include the use of its on-site telescopes, observation pods and a free visual tour of the night sky. There’s even an astrophotography course if you want to learn more about snapping some impressive pics of the sky at night.
When your intergalactic exploration has come to an end, you can retire to one of the warm contemporary log cabins with an open-plan living area. What could be more perfect?
If you're looking for more unique family activities, check out our roundup of the best London scavenger hunts for some interactive family fun.
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