Discover the Magic of the Dark Skies Festival in North York Moors National Park
Jan 16
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There’s something truly magical about the night sky above Robin Hood’s Bay and the surrounding North York Moors National Park. The darkness is striking due to the minimal light pollution. In urban areas you can see around 20 stars, if it were a clear night. However, in areas such as National Parks and Robin Hood's Bay there is a much lower level of light pollution and you could see as many as 2,000 stars.
The National Parks offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country and it is celebrated with various Dark Skies Festivals throughout the year. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Dark Skies Festival, running from 14th February to 2nd March 2025. These Festivals, held throughout the UK, have become an unmissable fixture in the stargazing calendar.
If you are staying in Robin Hoods Bay the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Parks run a calendar of events, for the Dark Skies Festival, some of them in Robin Hood’s Bay itself. There are activities and events, suitable for all ages, designed to celebrate the unspoiled night skies and connect us with the awe-inspiring beauty of the universe. The North York Moors is one of only 21 locations in the world to be recognised for pristine, dark skies.
What Is the Dark Skies Festival?
The Dark Skies Festival is an annual celebration of the star-studded skies above our national parks. With the North York Moors designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve, this festival is all about promoting the beauty of darkness and protecting it for generations to come.
The festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe through activities for all ages. Whether you’re a keen astronomer, a curious beginner, or simply love the idea of an evening under the stars, there’s something for everyone.
What to Expect from the Festival
The 10th anniversary of the Dark Skies Festival promises to be a spectacular celebration with a program of exciting events:
Stargazing Nights: Join expert-led stargazing sessions with high-powered telescopes, where you can spot constellations, planets, and even distant galaxies.
Astrophotography Workshops: Capture the beauty of the night sky with hands-on guidance from professional photographers.
Family-Friendly Activities: From interactive storytelling to glow-in-the-dark crafts, there are plenty of activities designed for children to learn about the wonders of space.
Guided Night Walks: Explore the moors under the cover of darkness, discovering nocturnal wildlife and experiencing the tranquillity of the night.
Astronomy Talks: Fascinating talks from astronomers and scientists will delve into topics like the Milky Way, meteor showers, and the importance of dark sky conservation.
Pop-Up Planetariums: Step inside a planetarium for an immersive journey through the stars without leaving the ground.
Many of these events are hosted at venues throughout the North York Moors, including Robin Hood’s Bay.
Why Stay in Robin Hood’s Bay During the Festival?
Robin Hood’s Bay offers the perfect mix of coastal charm and proximity to the North York Moors National Park. As a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, the village itself is a wonderful spot for stargazing, with its dramatic coastline providing a stunning backdrop. Dock Cottage, couldn't be closer to the beach or some of the events that are running during the festival.
During the festival, you can join the Robin Hood’s Bay Dark Skies Ghost Walk led by the Whitby Story Teller. This runs from 6.30pm-8.30pm and leaves from the old Coastguard Station, opposite the cottage. It is a lantern led walk through streets and alleyways of Robin Hood’s Bay. Listen to tales of the Strange and Supernatural under deep dark skies. Go on a journey into a mysterious past of Spirits, Shipwrecks, Smugglers, Local Folklore and Legend.
On 1st March join a Large Outdoors experienced guide for a Dark Skies festival night walk. The walk is approximately 5 miles at a leisurely pace (sorry no dogs allowed.) The walk starts outside the Victoria Hotel and takes the Cleveland Way coastal path between Robin Hood’s Bay and Ravenscar. You may have walked this during the day, but at night it takes on a completely different dimension. Just make sure you remember your head torch and book your place in advance.
When you book your stay at Dock Cottage, you’ll not only enjoy a cosy retreat steeped in history, but also an ideal location for soaking in the festival’s magic. After an evening of stargazing or attending an event, return to the comfort of the cottage and enjoy the simple pleasure of watching the stars from the window or stepping out to the beach for your own private celestial experience.
Top Tips for Enjoying the Dark Skies Festival
Dress Warmly: February nights can be chilly, so bundle up with warm clothing, hats, and gloves.
Bring Binoculars: If you don’t have a telescope, a simple pair of binoculars can enhance your stargazing experience.
Download a Stargazing App: Use apps like SkyView or Star Walk to help you identify constellations and planets.
Plan Ahead: Check the festival schedule and book events early, as many popular activities sell out quickly.
Celebrate 10 Years of Stellar Adventures
The Dark Skies Festival is a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world in a truly unique way. Whether you’re gazing at the stars from Robin Hood’s Bay or exploring the festival events across the North York Moors, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
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