Always wanted to experience Northumberland's dark skies? Here's your chance
Northumberland's countryside is a tapestry of heather-clad moors, rolling hills and ancient meadows. There are romantic castles to explore and the crumbling remains of fortifications reveal the north-east county's rich history. But to see one of its best attractions, you have to look up at the spectacular show in the skies.
As Northumberland has extremely low levels of light pollution, it has the most pristine dark skies in England and is the largest area of protected night sky in Europe. This makes it one of the best places in the country to go stargazing.
For stargazers who have always wanted to experience the dark skies of Northumberland in the company of an expert, Good Housekeeping has an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime break you can book for March 2024.
On this trip, you'll join up to 25 like-minded guests to experience spine-tingling moments in the company of expert astronomer Richard Darn.
You'll learn all about the awe-inspiring sights you'll see in the Northumberland skies from Richard, who is part of the team that gained International Dark Sky Reserve status for the Northumberland Dark Sky Park in 2013.
He previously assisted in the launch of Kielder Observatory five years earlier, and with numerous TV and radio appearances to his credit, Richard remains a stargazer at heart who loves to share his passion for the heavens.
During the two-night trip, there are visits to two observatories to look forward to, where you'll access telescopes and binoculars to use under the sparkling skies and see amazing constellations with the naked eye.
At the observatories, there will be illuminating talks, workshops and demonstrations with professionals to teach you more about the beauty of the skies above.
Highlights of Good Housekeeping's dark skies break in Northumberland
Learn from an astronomer
You'll be joined by expert local astronomer Richard Darn.
Richard will accompany you at both of the observatories, sharing his knowledge as you explore and giving informative talks.
Stay in a charming small hotel
Nestling in the picturesque village of Wark, you'll stay at Battlesteads. This pub, hotel and restaurant serves locally sourced produce and is one of only two across the county to hold a Gold Award from the Green Tourism Business Scheme.
Nearby, you'll have time to explore Hexham, a pretty market town home to the beautiful Sele Park and the stunning grounds of Hexham House.
Visit Hadrian's Wall
You'll visit the largest Roman archaeological feature in Britain and one of the country's most iconic historic attractions.
This former defensive fortification of the Roman province of Britannia dates back to AD122 and runs from Wallsend on the River Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west.
What to expect on Good Housekeeping's dark skies break
Taking place in March 2024, this incredible two-night getaway includes:
Two nights at Battlesteads with breakfast
A locally sourced dinner on the first night
Private visits to Kielder and Battlesteads Observatories with Richard Darn
Entrance to any of the sites along Hadrian's Wall
A visit to the First & Last Brewery
The company of an expert tour guide throughout
Like the sound of Good Housekeeping's exclusive dark skies break in Northumberland with Richard Darn? Visit our holidays website for details about the March 2024 trip and how to book.
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