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Lady Hill, Askrigg Copyright James Allinson

Dark Skies Festival

Our 2024 line-up of star-studded events and activities takes place from 9 to 25 February 2024.

The stunning dark sky of the National Park, free from light pollution, is one of its very special qualities. And we are thrilled to have been designated a Dark Sky Reserve by DarkSky International (formerly International Dark-Sky Association).

Local businesses in and around the Yorkshire Dales National Park are hosting various events to help visitors get under the starry skies and experience the best of the Yorkshire Dales by night.

Events and activities that took place as part of the 2023 Festival were stargazing talks with expert astronomers at some of the best locations in the Park, night-time fell running, astro-photography and canoeing in the dark. There are also plenty of family friendly fun such as rocket making, nocturnal wildlife talks, planet trails and dark skies crafts.

To get a flavour of the type of events that took place in February 2023, take a look at our Dark Skies Festival map.


Why not take a look at our Dark Sky Friendly businesses page with lots of fantastic accommodation and activity providers to choose from and you can come and discover the beauty of the dark skies here in the Yorkshire Dales for yourselves. You can also stay with accommodation and activity providers that offer specific activities, facilities, information or services to enhance your stargazing experience during your stay.

If you have stars in your eyes, you can read more about stargazing in the National Park or download our top tips brochure.