See the stars: Discover the best stargazing sites in the UK

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Currently, there are 18 recognised Dark Sky Reserves worldwide, with the UK being home to an impressive seven of these star-studded locations. With staycation bookings being at an all-time high, now is the perfect chance to fulfill those dreams and wake up the inner astronomer inside of you.

Here the seven UK stargazing locations and hot summer holidays spots found by Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays for you to inspire a trip that’s out of this world.

Cranborne Chase

With over 380 miles of countryside overlapping four English counties, Cranborne Chase is part of an extensive part of chalkland and home to the largest area of the UK Dark Sky Reserves.

From Cley Hill car park, head up the trail to the summit of the ancient hill fort and witness unforgettable views.

Where to stay: A 12-minute car journey will take you to The George Inn, where a seven-night stay in this traditional English inn will cost £938.

Exmoor National Park

Stretching between the open moorlands of North Devon and Somerset, Exmoor National Park offers 360-degree views for you to easily view the night sky.

Offering some of the darkest skies in the country, Exmoor National Park certainly delivers on a stargazing staycation and the village of Molland Moor is an area not to miss.

Where to stay: Extend your trip and head west to Topsham and you will find The Warehouse, from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays. Stays here start at £949 for a seven-night stay, the perfect sanctuary after a night viewing the stars.

Moores Reserve

Moores reserve, named after famed astrologist Sir Patrick Moore, can be found in the beautiful South Downs National Park and incredibly, is just 100km from the greater London Metropolitan area.

Spanning 87 miles, Moores Reserve joined the Dark Sky Reserves list in 2017 where keen night watchers have clearly seen milky ways and star constellations.

Where to stay: Just a stones throw from the South Downs is The White Horse Pub & Inn where a seven night stay will cost just £1360.

North York Moors National Park

Headlining up to the north-eastern side of England the North York Moors is home to one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the UK.

Aside from the picturesque villages and panoramic views, the skys have unlimited views of stars across the night sky – with some people even Northern Lights!

Where to stay: The Anchorage Cottage, is one of the few holiday cottages in Kettleness and is based only a two-minute walk from stargazing hotspots, with prices around £1350 for seven nights.

Snowdonia National Park

Arguably one of the UK’s most famous national parks, Snowdonia is home to the highest peaks outside of Scotland.

Jam-packed with outdoor natural attractions, from watersports to horse riding, visitors will have plenty to do while they wait for the sun to go down.

Head to Llyn Geirionydd on the edge of Gwydyr Forest for striking lakeside views of the night sky.

Where to stay: Take a 14-minute drive to Swallow Falls Hotel where you can stay for seven nights for two adults and a child for £1540.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Recently named as one of the top ten staycation locations for 2021, the Yorkshire Dales is completely free from local light pollution – perfect for that country fresh air and night views.

With easy footpaths suitable for all walking levels, head up to Richmond just off the Pennine Way, for some truly incredible sights.

Where to stay: Tan Hill Inn, the highest pub in England has camping on-site, with a stay under the starry blanket costing you just £10 a night for a tent plot.

Brecon Beacons National Park

Headlining back over to Wales, this secluded spot is great if you are seeking an intimate evening for stargazing.

Usk reservoir flaunts impressive views of the skyline and has a large area perfect for setting up a telescope.

Where to stay: Just an 11-minute drive east, will take you to Ynysfaen Camping site where you can stay in a luxury Shepherds Hut for £630 for seven nights.

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