Get stars in your eyes at these beautiful coastal sites this spring. Words: Katie Avis-Riordan
Before the light continues long into the night, what better way to enjoy the spring evenings than stargazing with the National Trust?
Look up at the skies and see how many constellations and planets you can spot. The evenings will be dark, but not too cold, so perfect for this night-time activity.
Here are some of the best coastal places for stargazing, walks and events this spring:
1. Carrick-a-Rede, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
The Carrick-a-Rede and Larrybane site was granted Dark Sky Discovery status in 2014 and is now one of only two such sites in Northern Ireland.
2. Stackpole, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Previously a private estate, Stackpole is now fully open to the public. It’s also home to Broadhaven South, one of four Dark Sky Discovery sites in Pembrokeshire. Gaze up from the beach for great views of the stars.
3. Blakeney National Nature Reserve, Norfolk, East of England
Walk under the stars on Blakeney Freshes coastal walk and pause to admire some of Norfolk’s famous skyscapes.
4. Holnicote Estate, Exmoor, South West
Exmoor National Park was designated the first International Dark Sky Reserve in Europe, and due to low levels of light pollution is one of the UK’s best sites for stargazing. Head to Dunkery Beacon on the Holnicote Estate, the highest point on Exmoor, for spectacular 360-degree views of the skies.
5. Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps, Cornwall, South West
Carnewas is one of Cornwall’s best spots for stargazing. The area was granted Dark Sky Discovery site status in 2014. Wrap up warm and take in the night skies.
To read more about the National Trust’s stargazing spots see here.
Keep an eye out for more Coast nature stories here and in the magazine.
