Explore the Dark Skies on the North York Moors

Spot the Milky Way, Orion or the Plough constellations and even a shooting star on a clear night, with little light pollution, the North York Moors offers some of the clearest skies.

The untamed force of nature married with hundreds of years of thriving industry has sculpted the coastal landscape of the North York Moors into what it is today: a mix of towering cliffs, secluded villages, picturesque fishing harbours and sweeping sandy beaches.  

But beyond its daytime charm, this part of the National Park has something even more magical to offer after the sun sets, some of the best dark skies in the country. 

This vast coastline is a destination most fall in love with and return for years to come, crashing waves, steep cliffs, scenic beaches and wonderful walks make it the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The fishing villages like Robin Hood's Bay, with its maze of narrow streets leading to the beach, offer a taste of history, while the iconic Whitby Abbey serves as a reminder of the area's rich maritime past. 

What makes the North York Moors coastline truly unique is its designation as a Dark Sky Reserve. This means that it is one of the best places in the UK to experience the wonders of the night sky. With little light pollution, the coastline offers an unobstructed view, making it a perfect spot for stargazing and astrophotography. Whether you're an amateur astronomer or simply someone who enjoys the peace of a clear night, the dark skies here will leave you in awe. 

On a clear evening, the Milky Way arcs across the sky, and constellations like Orion and the Plough become vivid and unmistakable. You might even catch sight of shooting stars or the vivid Northern Lights, depending on the time of year. The coastline’s relative remoteness means that you can enjoy the stars without distractions, before heading back to a cosy B&B to bed down for the night and extend your stargazing stay.

Roam the rugged Moors during the day and scour the star-studded skies at night, check into Dark Skies accommodation for the Dark Skies Festival to enjoy the ultimate experience 

There are several key spots along the coastline where you can enjoy these stunning dark skies. Places like Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes and Kettleness are especially popular with stargazers, offering great vantage points for an unspoiled view out to a sea of darkness.  

Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline by day or seeking starry night adventure too, the North York Moors coastline offers an unforgettable experience, one where nature’s beauty unfolds in both the daylight and the darkness. 

Why not join one of the North York Moors Dark Skies Friendly accommodation or event providers for an extended stargazing stay in this stunning International Dark Sky Reserve? Stay under the stars with North York Moors Farm Stays, Sea Fern Holiday Cottages, Coast & Camplight or Cober Hill who are all located on the 26 miles of coastline in the North York Moors.  

Or discover dark skies walks, astrophotography workshops and stargazing sessions with expert of the skies to explore the stunning skies above the National Park. 

Don’t forget to return to the North York Moors to celebrate the 10th Dark Skies Festival, between 14 February and 2 March. This celebration is set to be bigger and better than ever before, with magnificent star-studded events taking place.