Discover Wales’ Dark Skies
Published on 9 Dec 2024 by Amy GreenwoodWales, with its dramatic landscapes, clear skies, and low levels of light pollution, is one of the best places to experience the wonders of the night sky, and itâs fast becoming a popular dark sky destination. With three International Dark Sky Reserves, a Dark Sky Sanctuary, and several Dark Sky Discovery sites, this beautiful country has a higher percentage of land with protected status than anywhere else – and some of the best stargazing spots in the world.
Throughout North Wales, Mid Wales and Eryri (Snowdonia), you’ll find numerous designated dark sky zones where you can marvel at the stars, constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way. And thereâs no better season to enjoy the wonders of the night sky – winter is the perfect time for stargazing.
Why Winter is Perfect for Stargazing
Long, dark nights and crisp air create ideal conditions. Cold air reduces atmospheric moisture and distortion, making stars appear sharper and brighter. With the reduced chance of cloud cover, winter skies often provide crystal-clear views of the cosmos. Put simply, winter is a prime time for stargazing.
During this season, you can spot iconic constellations like Orion, and pick out planets such as Mars, which is at its brightest during December, and Venus, which is best spotted over the winter months. Wales’ dark skies provide the perfect backdrop for meteor showers like the Geminids and Ursid in December, and the Quadrantids in January. If youâre lucky, you might even spot a shooting star against the winter skies.
Top Stargazing Locations
Some of the worldâs best stargazing destinations are right here on our doorstep. Whether youâre a keen astronomer, an amateur stargazer, or simply captivated by the night skies, there are many Dark Sky locations across North Wales, Mid Wales and Eryri (Snowdonia), where you can enjoy the night sky in all its glory. Here are just a few..
Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)
An International Dark Sky Reserve since 2015, Eryri is a true gem for stargazers and astrophotographers. This sparsely populated area boasts expansive dark skies and minimal light pollution, offering some of the clearest views of the night sky in the UK.
Top stargazing spots include Llyn Geirionydd, a tree lined lake in the heart of Snowdonia, and Llynnau Cregennan, a pair of lakes on the slopes of Cadair ldris, where spectacular views of the night sky are reflected in the still waters. Another top spot is Bwlch y Groes, or âThe Pass of the Crossâ. This high mountain road between Dinas Mawddwy and Llanuwchllyn is the ideal spot to enjoy Eryriâs crystal clear night skies.
Clwydian Range and Dee Valley
The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley offer a wealth of stargazing spots. Loggerheads Country Park provides both beauty and accessibility; for the more adventurous, the summit of Moel Famau is a perfect perch for observing the stars, while some of the areaâs darkest skies are found above Caer Drewyn, an iron age hill fort overlooking the stunning valley of the Afon Dyfrdwy.
Llšn Peninsula & Ynys Enlli
With dramatic coastline and remote rural areas, the Llšn Peninsula is a fantastic place to experience the cosmos. The clear skies above Porthor (Whistling Sands) provide the opportunity to spot globular clusters, nebulae and the neighbouring Andromeda Galaxy, while the headland above Porth Ceiriad is a great spot for shooting stars. At the tip of the peninsula, Uwchmynydd makes a fantastic vantage point from which to view Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island), recently designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, thanks to its remote location and lack of light pollution. A great spot for night time photography.
The Cambrian Mountains & The Elan Valley
Far from the glow of city lights, the Cambrian Mountains and Elan Valley have some of the darkest skies in Europe. Designated as a Dark Sky Park, and home to nine Dark Sky Discovery Sites which make up the Cambrian Mountains Astro Trail, this unspoiled region is one of the best places in the UK to marvel at the night sky.
The Cambrian Mountainsâ remote, elevated terrain offers 360-degree views of the night sky, while the Elan Valleyâs network of dams and reservoirs provide an ideal setting for stargazing, with many easily accessible observation points. Head to Pen y Garreg Dam to experience the dramatic silhouette of the dam against a starry sky, or Craig Goch Dam, which is popular with stargazers and astro-photographers. Marvel at the canopy of stars from the dam itself, or take the path on the east side of the reservoir to find stunning views of the night sky; Claerwen Reservoir is a tranquil spot with wide, open views perfect for watching meteor showers.
From the peaks of Eryri to the tranquil waters of the Elan Valley, rural Wales has some of the best dark sky locations in the UK. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer, a budding astro-photographer, or simply want to soak up the beauty of the night, Walesâ dark skies are full of wonders just waiting to be discovered.
So, bundle up, grab your binoculars, and venture into the night this winter â the stars are calling!
