Do you know a budding astronomer who is keen to learn more about the cosmos? Or perhaps you simply long to look up at the night sky and marvel at the Milky Way, but can’t because of light pollution?

If so, then this is your chance to visit the Yorkshire Dales – one of the best places on earth for stargazing.

Thanks to the exceptional quality of its starry nights, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is one of only 20 reserves in the world with International Dark Sky Reserve status. Here, it is possible to see thousands of stars, the Milky Way, meteors and even the Northern Lights!

As part of this year’s Dark Skies Festival, we have teamed up with the experts to create a star-studded pairing of stargazing events for you to enjoy as part of your stay.

Here’s what’s on offer…

STARGAZING – 23 February 2023

Explore the fascinating dark skies above the Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Reserve with astronomer Neill Sanders, founder of Go Stargazing.

With Neill you will experience a laser-guided tour of the constellations and observe remarkable astronomical objects including star clusters, nebulae and galaxies using large aperture telescopes.

Not only will you come away with a greater understanding of navigating the night sky, but you will have observed some of the most incredible natural sights humans will ever see – in one of the finest locations in the world to do so!

DARK SKIES NIGHT HIKE – 24 February 2023

Soak up the magic of the Yorkshire Dales at night with a hike under the stars led by Mark Reid from TeamWalking.

Mark is a highly experienced Mountain Leader and acclaimed outdoor writer with over 25 years of professional outdoor experience, so you can simply follow his lead whilst marveling at the stunning starlit sky above.

This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the atmosphere and beauty of the Dales at night, with only the stars and some new friends for company.

TWO FANTASTIC PACKAGES:

Option 1: Stargazing only
Arrive 23 February 2023
Two nights’ stay in a choice of our fantastic bedrooms, subject to availability
A sumptuous 3-course dinner on both evenings
A hearty Yorkshire breakfast on both mornings
Stargazing and expert guidance from astronomer, Neill Sanders
If the weather is poor, a virtual stargazing tour and astronomy presentation will be given using planetarium software

Option 2: Stargazing AND Dark Skies Night Hike
As above, save that we will cover the cost of your hike (£40pp) rather than the 3-course dinner on the second night
Instead, you will be provided with a tasty packed-meal and a flask of hot drink
The walk begins at 6pm and finishes around 10pm
The walk is usually between 5 and 8 miles, and will include uneven terrain
No previous hill-walking experience is required
If needed, Mark can provide full kit and boots

From only £111 per person per night based on two adults sharing.

Why not extend your stay and check out some of the other events going on in the National Park for the Dark Skies Festival?

For further information and to book your stay, please contact us at:
reception@stonehousehotel.co.uk or 01969 667571

You will need to be quick though! Our email subscribers received priority booking so we only have a few rooms left.

If you don’t want to miss out on priority booking for future events, then subscribe to our newsletter here: https://stonehousehotel.co.uk/newsletter/

We hope to see you soon!

Picture credit: Matthew Savage