Highlighting best UK dark sky locations together with astronomical calendar to support trip planning.
Hipcamp (formerly Cool Camping in the UK) has launched a new map filter highlighting the best camping and glamping spots to book in order to enjoy dark skies.
Designed to accommodate the growing interest in Astro tourism, the map makes it possible to search out places to stay with low light pollution, perfect for stargazing. The dark skies filter is expected to be a hit with celestial campers chasing pristine skies.
Using the map in dark sky mode you can select places to stay, then plan a trip using Hipcamp’s dedicated stargazing guide – which recommends specific places to stay during key astronomical dates.
Commenting on the first-of-its-kind feature for campers, Jonathan Knight, general manager UK said: “Hipcamp’s unveiling of our new dark skies filter marks a welcome advancement for outdoor enthusiasts. The filter allows you to plan camping trips to some of the most undisturbed dark spots across the UK and find the perfect pitch according to your budget and location preferences. The filter is available on both our website and free app and also extends across all of our 20,000 global sites including in the USA, Canada and Australia.”
Referring to Hipcamp’s stargazing guide, upcoming astronomical highlights include the New Moon on March 10, perfect for stargazing and spotting constellations like Ursa Major and Volans. March 24 offers a rare chance to glimpse Mercury at its best eastern elongation, followed by the Full Worm Moon on March 25 illuminating the night for moonlit hikes and camping adventures. April ushers in Global Astronomy Month and, with it, some spectacular opportunities to reconnect with the cosmos.
Photo by Hipcamp Photographer Kate Bennett.
With most urbanised locations having the highest concentration of artificial light, the transformative benefits of spending time and sleeping in dark sky areas are becoming increasingly evident. From improved sleep quality to reduced stress and anxiety it is widely accepted that dark sky environments enhance both mental and physical wellbeing.
“As research continues to underscore the positive health impacts of time spent immersed in dark skies, we hope our stargazing guide will inspire existing and potential new astronomers to get outside and sleep under the stars for the first time. It’s really just an easy way to locate the best views of our incredible universe.” added Knight.
The best dark sky stays…
From Dark Sky Reserves luxury glamping, to hammock stays sleeping under the stars, or going back to nature in a treehouse – these are some of the best ways to enjoy the UK’s darkest skies and celestial wonders.
Milky Way from Wye Valley – Stargazers Glamping – Herefordshire
This Wye Valley location offers three lotus bell tents set in the mature gardens of a Georgian country house. Each has its own wood-fired hot tub, fire pit, equipped kitchen, hot shower with limitless hot water and separate toilet, as well as sunbeds and hammock for lounging. The views take in the Welsh mountains, open fields and forest, with starry night skies particularly joyful as each tent has its own telescope powerful enough to view the Milky Way and transparent ceiling panels so you can view the stars from your bed. Tents priced from £200 a night.
Celestial Family Stays – Cledan Valley – Powys, England Nestled amidst the tranquil landscapes of Powys within the Cambrian Mountains, this family-run site offers a sanctuary enveloped by meadows, woodlands, and a nearby stream. There’s ample space across its 10-acre expanse, and guests can choose between two distinct lodging options: the Otter Bell Tent and the Red Kite Yurt. Each offers modern amenities including flush toilets, showers, and a communal kitchen. The selection of outdoor activities is extensive. From biking and hiking to boating on Lake Clywedog by day, to stargazing by night. Prices start from £60 per night for the Otter Bell Tent and £100 per night for the Red Kite Yurt.
Wi-Fi free nights under the stars – Milton Farm Hideaway, Suffolk
Tucked away in the idyllic countryside of Suffolk, Milton Farm Hideaway offers a unique opportunity for guests to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature under the vast starlit skies. With no Wi-Fi available, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape and gaze up at the celestial wonders above. Groups of up to 11 people enjoy the whole place to themselves, accommodated in giant bell tents and a cosy shepherd’s hut – all equipped with essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Prices from £255 per night for the whole site.
Wild Hammock Camping – stargazing in Wales
For adventurous souls seeking an unforgettable stargazing experience, Wild Hammock Camping in Wales offers the perfect retreat. Located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, this secluded campsite provides guests with the opportunity to sleep under the stars in hammocks suspended between towering trees. With no light pollution to obscure the view, visitors can marvel at the brilliance of the night sky and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. Prices start from £25 per night per person.
Treehouse stays under the stars at The Blue Pool
For a one-of-a-kind experience, check out The Blue Pool in Dorset, where you can go back to nature and spend a night in a charming treehouse. Nestled among the treetops and surrounded by the natural beauty of the heathland, the treehouses offer panoramic views of Poole Harbour. It’s an enchanting retreat, perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. With prices starting from £195 per night for up to four guests, including access to the treehouse and complimentary admission to The Blue Pool tourist attraction.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
