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Dark Skies Festival Activities at How Stean Gorge
An event every week that begins at 4:30 pm on Friday and Saturday, repeating until Saturday 29 March, 2025
Next Dates: Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings between 1st November 2024 – 29th March 2025
How Stean Gorge is proud to be hosting the ever-popular Dark Skies Activities nights as part of the Yorkshire Dales and Moors Dark Skies Festival.
As part of the Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival, we are running our very popular Dark Skies Activity and Pizza Nights from November through to March. Only £39 per person for an instructor-led, all-equipment-provided experience (pizzas sold separately).
These popular events are a unique blend of adventure, astronomy, and culinary delight, set against the breath-taking backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales. Whether you’re paddling under the stars or tackling our floodlit via ferrata, this is a night-time adventure you won’t want to miss.
Dark Skies Festival Activity – Canoeing or in the case of bad weather – Via Ferrata High Wire Course
Ever thought of star gazing in a canoe? Glide into the water and paddle your rafted canoe across Scar House Reservoir under the moon and stars, also if you arrive early you can get FREE entrance to our Gorge and Caves Visitor Attraction.
PLEASE NOTE: IF CANOEING IS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF BAD WEATHER,
AN ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY WILL BE PROVIDED.
WE ARE UNABLE TO PROVIDE REFUNDS FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS DUE TO ADDITIONAL COSTS.
In adverse weather conditions, participants will experience the Via Ferrata High Wire Course. The course is one of only three in the UK. This only happens when it is not safe to proceed with open-water canoeing. We promise you will still have an amazing adventure whether you go canoeing or experience the Via ferrata high-wire course!
Unique ‘Dark Skies’ Location
Scar House Reservoir is one of three places in the Nidderdale AONB that has a Dark Sky Discovery Site status. The Yorkshire Dales National Park has been officially designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, making this area one of the best places in the world to view the skies above.
What is an International Dark Sky Reserve?
An IDA International Dark Sky Reserve is a public or private land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment. It is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural, heritage or public enjoyment.
Time
The Dark Skies Activity will take place from 7 pm – 8.30 pm. Pizza is available from 5 pm-7 pm (see below)
How much does it cost?
Only £39 per person (activity only). All safety equipment is provided. (10 years old +)
Order a homemade Pizza!
Pre-order a tasty pizza and dine in our panoramic glass-floored café overlooking the gorge. Service: 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm. Visitors can pay for these on arrival, as it’s not included in the Dark Skies Activities price. Please book pizzas separately from activities.
These event days are popular so to avoid disappointment book your place today! Check out our Facebook Page for Dark Skies Festival updates – and for photos as these activities are also great at night!
