The night sky over the United Kingdom has never looked so inviting. As interest in astronomy and astrotourism surges, two Cumbrian gems—Wasdale and Derwentwater—have been propelled into the spotlight as some of the UK’s premier stargazing destinations. According to a recent study by Planet Cruise, these Lake District locales now rank among the top ten places in the country for those hoping to glimpse the wonders of the cosmos, thanks to their minimal light pollution and breathtaking natural settings.
Wasdale, renowned for being home to Scafell Pike—the highest peak in England—offers what Planet Cruise describes as “zero light pollution and stunning night skies.” The area’s elevation and isolation create an ideal environment for observing celestial events, from clusters of distant stars to the sweeping arc of the Milky Way. Derwentwater, meanwhile, promises a “tranquil lakeside setting with minimal light interference,” making it a peaceful haven for both seasoned astronomers and curious beginners.
Both of these sites are nestled within the Lake District National Park, a region already celebrated for its dramatic landscapes and now gaining recognition as a prime spot for astrotourism. The timing couldn’t be better: the annual Perseid meteor shower—one of the most anticipated astronomical events—peaked on August 12 this year and remains active until August 24. The Perseids, famous for their bright, fast-moving meteors, are best viewed from dark, open spaces like Wasdale and Derwentwater, where the only competition for your attention is the reflection of starlight on the water’s surface.
This surge in stargazing interest isn’t limited to Cumbria. The Planet Cruise study also crowned Snowdonia in Wales as the UK’s top stargazing destination, citing its 700-metre elevation and exceptionally low light pollution. The vastness of Snowdonia National Park provides countless vantage points for unforgettable night-sky experiences. Other locations making the top ten include the North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales, Shetland Islands, Black Down in West Sussex, Cambrian Mountains in Wales, Carding Mill Valley on the Long Mynd in Shropshire, and the Brecon Beacons in Wales.
“Several celestial phenomena lit up our sky this year, including the solar eclipse and northern lights, leading to interest in astronomical events and astro-tourism rapidly growing in popularity,” a spokesperson for Planet Cruise explained. Their study, conducted to help stargazers pinpoint the best locations for the Perseids, reflects a broader trend: astrotourism is booming. In fact, there’s been a 53 percent increase in travelers seeking destinations to experience the Aurora Borealis, and almost a third of survey respondents plan to visit Dark Sky Reserves in 2025.
This national fascination with the heavens is echoed in everyday life. According to Argos, sales of telescopes and binoculars have skyrocketed by 1,380 percent year-on-year, a figure that underscores the public’s growing appetite for celestial discovery. The astronomy hashtag has been used over 540,000 times on social media, with enthusiasts flocking to platforms like “Spacetok” to share their experiences, tips, and awe-inspiring photos.
But you don’t need to invest heavily to begin your own stargazing adventure. Outreach astronomer Neill Sanders, founder of gostargazing.co.uk, offers practical advice for novices. “Looking for constellations is not complicated,” Sanders assures. Whether you’re in a city garden, a suburban park, or deep in the countryside, all it takes is a bit of preparation. He recommends turning off any nearby lights and giving your eyes about 15 minutes to adjust to the darkness—a simple trick that can reveal thousands of stars invisible to the unadjusted eye.
For those seeking even more spectacle, traveling a few miles to a designated Dark Sky area can make a world of difference. Many such sites across the UK are free to access and offer amenities like parking and toilets, making them family-friendly options for a night under the stars. Sanders also suggests planning your stargazing around the lunar calendar: “Try to time your stargazing session so it takes place in the days before, during, or just after a new moon. At this time, you should be able to see thousands of stars with only your eyes.” Natural moonlight, especially during a full moon, can wash out all but the brightest stars, so timing is key.
Equipment needn’t be a barrier, either. A basic pair of 10x50 binoculars—costing around £30—are ideal for beginners and children. Stabilizing binoculars on a tripod or even a garden fence can make viewing easier. If you’re ready to take the next step, specialist retailers like firstlightoptics.co.uk offer affordable starter telescopes and expert guidance. And don’t forget the value of red light: red bike lights or torches with a red filter help preserve night vision, allowing you to see fainter stars and meteors without spoiling the experience for yourself or others.
In today’s digital age, smartphones and tablets are powerful stargazing companions. Apps like Star Walk, Star Tracker, and Sky Safari provide real-time star charts and can identify celestial objects using your device’s GPS and compass. Still, Sanders advises, “Just remember to look away from your phone and up to the stars.” For those who prefer analog methods, traditional printed star charts remain a reliable guide.
Community is another key ingredient in the stargazing recipe. Astronomy clubs and societies across the UK regularly host observing sessions—often free or for a nominal fee—and welcome complete beginners. These gatherings not only provide a chance to learn from experienced astronomers but also offer access to high-tech equipment that might otherwise be out of reach. Some clubs even lend telescopes to members, making it easier for everyone to experience the wonders of the universe.
As for what to look for, Sanders recommends starting with well-known constellations like the Plough, Leo, and Ursa Major. While not all constellations are visible year-round—Orion, for example, is a winter constellation in the UK—shooting stars and meteor showers like the Perseids offer thrilling, accessible entry points for newcomers. Meteor showers are named after the constellation from which they appear to radiate, and clubs often organize special events to coincide with these celestial fireworks.
For the uninitiated, it’s helpful to know the difference between the cosmic objects on display. According to NASA, an asteroid is a small rocky body orbiting the Sun, while meteoroids are fragments that break off from asteroids. When a meteoroid enters Earth’s atmosphere and burns up, it becomes a meteor—what we see as a shooting star. If it survives the journey and lands on Earth, it’s called a meteorite. Comets, on the other hand, are icy bodies that develop spectacular tails as they approach the Sun.
With so much happening above our heads and so many resources at hand, it’s no wonder that stargazing has captured the national imagination. Whether you’re drawn to the dark skies of Wasdale, the reflective calm of Derwentwater, or any of the country’s other celebrated sites, the universe is putting on a show—and all you have to do is look up.
