Dark Skies Northumberland

“Look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious.”

– Stephen Hawking

Percy Wood Country Park, Where the stars align.

Percy Wood Country Park is situated in the scenic Northumberland countryside, with modern amenities and an exclusive 18-hole golf course with captivating views of the surrounding landscape. It serves an ideal base from which to explore the Northumberland coastline, providing guests with a comfortable and convenient base for their adventures.

Northumberland’s distinction as a gold-tier Dark Sky Reserve by the International Dark Sky Association solidifies Percy Wood’s status as a premier destination for stargazers across Europe. This designation ensures that Northumberland boasts the largest protected area of dark skies on the continent, preserving its natural beauty for generations to come.

Set within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Percy Wood Country Parks location benefits hugely from the region’s commitment to dark sky preservation.

Helped hugely by the vast expanse of sea stretching alongside the AONB’s eastern border, guests at Percy Wood are treated to unparalleled views of the night sky, making Northumberland one of England’s top spots for witnessing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

Encompassing a huge area of around five hundred and seventy square miles, Northumberland’s International Dark Sky Park was established in 2013, further underpinning the region’s dedication to safeguarding its celestial wonders.

Our strict lighting controls at Percy Wood are in place to minimise light pollution, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the Northumberland night sky.

So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply looking to reconnect with nature, the park provides the perfect setting for stargazing and celestial observation. With our unspoiled landscapes and clear night skies, we cordially invite our guests to marvel at the wonders of the universe and create unforgettable memories under the stars.

For more information on Dark Skies Northumberland visit https://www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/things-to-do/discover-dark-skies/

As well as a guide on some fantastic nearby dark skies’ events here https://www.visitnorthumberland.com/explore/destinations/darkskies/events