Nature showcase for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life
Travellers are being guided to 10 of the UK’s top spots for viewing the Northern Lights after research showed a surge in people seeking the chance to explore nature – in a bid to get away from busy everyday life. As more people increasingly seek to catch a glimpse of the natural phenomenon, travel insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk are sharing areas across the UK with some of the darkest skies, making them ideal for observing celestial events.
According to the British Government Adults’ People and Nature Survey, most people visit green and natural spaces weekly, and those who don’t say they would like to – with most respondents agreeing that spending time outdoors is beneficial for their physical and mental health. With the surge in ‘off peak’ camping continuing, most likely thanks to the investments in camping gear over the lockdown years, these destinations offer an opportunity to reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the UK countryside.
Several of the locations are designated International Dark Sky Parks (IDSPs). Established in 2001, these reserves help preserve clear night skies, allowing travellers the opportunity to enjoy spectacular celestial displays. Examples include Snowdonia, OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory, and Northumberland National Park.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) sightings in the UK are most common from September to March, when nights are longer and skies are typically clearer.
Helen Rolph, travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “Many people are beginning to seek more time in nature, away from screens. Even at night, travellers can enjoy the beauty of the UK, with Aurora Borealis sightings possible across northern parts of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
“When geomagnetic activity is high and the skies are clear, the Northern Lights can create stunning displays. Even when the aurora is not visible, the UK’s dark skies still offer magnificent views of stars and planets – plus the chance to relax and unwind, ideal for a peaceful camping trip or staycation. High altitudes, away from light pollution, often offer the best chance of seeing celestial events and have become a trendy option for those seeking a New Year’s mini-break with a difference. However, it’s important for travellers to be prepared for the conditions in these remote areas, from changing weather to limited facilities – having suitable travel insurance can provide extra peace of mind.
“Some staycation insurance will only cover those who are a certain distance from their home or have a certain number of nights away, so travellers should always double check their policy details and add any extras they might need.”
Ten of the UK’s Northern Lights hotspots:
1. Snowdonia, Gwynedd and Conwy
Snowdonia is located in North Wales and is renowned for its beautiful landscapes. The national park is also recognised as an International Dark Sky Reserve, offering clearer views of the Northern Lights as well as stunning star-filled skies.
2. The Lake District, Cumbria
Located in North West England, the Lake District is known for its gorgeous mountains and lakes. With minimal light pollution, its dark skies provide an ideal setting for viewing celestial events like the Aurora Borealis.
3. Penmon Point, Isle of Anglesey
The Isle of Anglesey is a peaceful area, and Penmon Point is a particularly special spot, with sightings of the Northern Lights possible on clear, dark nights. From here, you can look out over the Menai Strait towards Puffin Island, with clear horizon perfect for stargazing.
4. Mam Tor, Derbyshire
Mam Tor is located in the northern part of the Peak District, and its summit offers beautiful views of rolling hills. On clear, dark nights it’s possible to see the Northern Lights.
5. OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory, Tyrone
OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory in Northern Ireland is one of the International Dark Sky Reserves, located in Davagh Forest. This remote area has exceptionally dark skies, making it ideal for viewing auroral displays.
6. Shetland Islands
In the northernmost part of the UK, the Shetland Islands offer dark, expansive skies. The Northern Lights, known locally as the ‘Mirrie Dancers’, can sometimes be seen dancing across the sky.
7. Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park is home to some of England’s cleanest rivers and freshest air. As an International Dark Sky Reserve, its dark skies provide an excellent setting.
8. Glencoe, Argyll
Glencoe in Scotland is a peaceful area known for its mountains and valleys with low light pollution.
9. Giant’s Causeway, Antrim
Giant’s Causeway, located in Northern Ireland, is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and northern latitude with wide, dark skies.
10. Tan Hill, North Yorkshire
Tan Hill is set within a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site in North Yorkshire. Its remote, high-altitude location and low light pollution make it an excellent spot for observing celestial events, including the Northern Lights.
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