Be a Milky Wayfarer: Stargazing Walks in the Yorkshire Dales and Beyond

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There’s something timeless about stargazing, looking up at a star-filled sky. For many of us, it’s a humbling and awe-inspiring experience; one that connects us with the wider universe and offers a quiet counterpoint to the busyness of modern life.

For walkers and hikers, stargazing can become a beautiful extension of the day’s journey, transforming a well-loved landscape into something almost magical once the sun dips below the horizon.

In the UK, finding dark skies suitable for stargazing might seem like a challenge, but thanks to the efforts of organisations such as Dark Sky Discovery, walkers now have a guide to some of the best places to see the stars in their full glory.

In particular, the Yorkshire Dales National Park stands out as one of the UK’s top locations for night-time wonder, especially for those happy to lace up their boots and wander a little off the beaten path.

What is a Dark Sky Discovery Site?

The Dark Sky Discovery network recognises areas across the UK where the night sky is especially clear of light pollution. These sites are awarded special status in two classes:

• Orion Class: Locations where the seven main stars in the Orion constellation can be easily spotted with the naked eye.
• Milky Way Class: More exclusive, these sites offer views of the Milky Way – our galaxy’s dusty band of stars – clearly visible on a cloudless night.

These designations aren’t just about astronomy; they highlight areas where you can really connect with nature, away from the glow of towns and cities.

Yorkshire Dales: A Stargazer’s Dream

Among the most enchanting places to stargaze in the UK are the Yorkshire Dales, where eight locations have received Milky Way Class status. This means on a good night, with a bit of patience and perhaps a flask of hot tea, you could see the hazy streak of the Milky Way stretching across the heavens—and maybe even catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis in the winter months.

Here are the eight standout stargazing spots:

• Malham: Famous for its dramatic cove and limestone pavements, Malham offers elevated views and minimal light interference.
• Hawes: One of the Dales’ most charming towns, Hawes combines a welcoming atmosphere with excellent access to nearby dark sky viewpoints.
• Buckden: Nestled in Upper Wharfedale, Buckden is surrounded by open fells that provide perfect vantage points for starry skies.
• Tan Hill Inn: The highest pub in Britain, Tan Hill offers not only a warm fire and local ale but some of the darkest skies in the country.
• Toft Gate Lime Kiln (near Pateley Bridge): A fascinating historic site that now also serves as a celestial viewing platform.
• Nidderdale AONB: While not technically part of the National Park, Nidderdale’s Dark Sky Discovery sites rival any in the Dales.
• Fewston, Thruscross and Scar House Reservoirs: These reservoirs offer peaceful, open settings ideal for stargazing, with flat walks perfect for a gentle evening hike.

Astronomer Richard Darn, a vocal supporter of dark sky tourism, captures the magic of the area perfectly: “The Dales are a stargazer’s paradise of diamonds on black velvet.”

Stargazing and Hiking: Tips for a Night Walk

Combining hiking with stargazing does take a bit of preparation, but the rewards are immense. Here are a few tips:

• Plan your route: Choose well-marked trails or loops you’re familiar with—ideally ones you’ve done in daylight.
• Check moon phases: A full moon can wash out fainter stars and the Milky Way. Aim for nights close to the new moon for the best views.
• Bring red light: Use a headlamp with a red light setting to protect your night vision while walking.
• Wear layers: Even in summer, it gets cold quickly under clear skies. Take plenty of warm clothing.
• Use apps: Star map apps like SkyView or Stellarium help you identify constellations, planets, and even satellites.

If you want to go stargazing, this site provides a UK-wide interactive map of stargazing locations and upcoming astronomy events. If you’re hoping to catch the Northern Lights, this site gives real-time alerts for aurora activity in the UK.

Why Walkers Should Embrace the Night

Stargazing adds a whole new dimension to the walking experience. Instead of rushing to finish before sunset, it encourages you to slow down, pause, and look up. You don’t need expensive equipment—just patience, clear skies, and an open mind.

For solo hikers, a night under the stars can be meditative. For groups or couples, it’s a bonding experience like no other. And for families, it’s a brilliant way to spark interest in the natural world, science, and the beauty of the outdoors.

To help you find the darkest spots near you check this website for interactive light pollution maps.

Conclusion: Under a Canopy of Stars

Walking by day allows us to see the beauty of the landscapes we pass through—but walking by night lets us connect with the universe above. The Yorkshire Dales, with its recognised Dark Sky sites, offers a rare opportunity to do both. Whether you’re following a riverside trail, cresting a quiet fell, or simply sitting outside a hillside inn with a hot drink in hand, you’ll find that stargazing isn’t just for astronomers. It’s for all of us who love to walk, explore, and wonder.

So next time you head for the hills, consider staying just a little longer. Let the stars guide your path, and become a true Milky Wayfarer.