Discover hidden gems in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales: Dark Sky Camping.
Imagine escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, trading streetlights for starlight, and immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the cosmos. Dark sky camping offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the universe in ways rarely experienced in our modern world. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or simply seeking a new adventure under the night sky, the UK's dark sky camping destinations promise unforgettable experiences that will leave you in awe of the celestial wonders above.
Brecon Beacons International Dark Sky Reserve
Brecon Beacons IDS Reserve
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (formally Brecon Beacons National Park) Location Powys, Mid Wales Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2013 Area 1,347km2
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park in South Wales boasts a surprising ratio of 30 sheep to every human. This secluded haven offers prime stargazing and natural nighttime experiences within its Dark Sky Reserve, home to 33,000 residents and easily accessible to over a million.
The park is diligently replacing light fixtures to ensure 100% dark sky-friendly lighting in its core zone, with local communities actively supporting the preservation of the pristine night sky for future generations.
Brecon Beacons International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
Renovated from a former railway station, Aberbran Caravan and Motorhome Club site is just the thing if you are looking for a hidden gem, no nonsense, simple and relaxing holiday. The site provides facilities for those with a passion for walking and bird watching as the site is ideally located within the Brecon Beacons and its famous National Park. The Park has its own Mountain Centre, where visitors collect information, leaflets and walks. An exhibition and a small cafe is on hand that includes an outside terrace with stunning views to admire. The site has just 22 mainly grass pitches all with 16 amp electricity.
Brecon Beacons Caravan and Motorhome Club site is in a picturesque setting with with a few pitches having super views towards the Brecon Beacons. Originally farmland near the Brecon bypass, there are now three level, hedged and neatly mown areas with tarmac roads bounded by a mixture of hardwood trees and shrubs. These fields provide for 149 touring units of all types with hardstanding on 106 pitches with electricity points (10/16 amp) and 54 multi-serviced pitches with gravel hardstandings, and also 10 tent pitches. In a sloping field leading down to a stream is an extensive dog walk on one side of the Brynich Brook, on the other bank is an adventure play area. The stream is shallow and an added attraction along with the play equipment plus there is a large recreation field for ball games. The site also provides a caravan/motorhome storage compound.
Bodmin Moor Dark Sky Landscape Location Cornwall, South West England Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2017 Area 434 km2
Bodmin Moor, a remote and rugged upland granite moorland in Cornwall, England, is the largest unit of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Recognised for its significant value, it's the first AONB to receive IDA accreditation for its dark skies. As a "working agricultural landscape," Bodmin Moor maintains traditional land uses and enjoys protections against large-scale development, preserving its pristine night skies.
Despite being mostly privately owned, much of the Moor has been open access since 2000, offering daytime activities like hiking, cycling, fishing, and rock climbing. Recently, its dark night skies have become a draw for tourists from across the UK and Europe. Cornwall Council is dedicated to protecting these skies, while locals conduct education and outreach to highlight their economic and cultural importance.
Located in cosy, attractive grounds, Camelford Caravan and Motorhome Club site offers a fun holiday getaway for the whole family. The site puts you within easy reach of North Cornwall, which combines quiet, coastal villages like Port Isaac, Port Gaverne, Treknow and Port Quin. For those who like a bit of extra buzz, the larger seaside resorts of Padstow and Bude are not far away. The famous town of Tintagel is also nearby - here you can experience the rumoured birthplace of King Arthur and a sense of the real Camelot with its ancient medieval castle. The site has 56 mainly grass pitches (some seasonal) all with electricity 16amp.
Lakefield is a small touring park on what was a working farm. Now the main focus is on the BHS-approved equestrian centre. With only 40 pitches, it is no surprise that the owners, Maureen and Dennis Perring, know all the campers. The well spaced pitches backing onto hedges and with 34 electric hook-ups (16A) are in view of the small, fenced lake watched over by one of Cornwall’s first wind farms. The white-washed café/reception, converted from one of the old barns, is open all day between Easter and October. Children will love the goats and ’Wabbit World’.
Coll Location Inner Hebrides, Scotland Status International Dark Sky Community Year of Designation 2013 Area 77km2
Coll, nestled among the Inner Hebrides, lies approximately 10 km west of coastal Argyll and is home to just over 200 permanent residents. Renowned for its diverse bird species, the island hosts an extensive reserve owned by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, which includes one of Coll's recognised night sky viewing sites. Drawing thousands of visitors annually, nature tourism thrives on the island.
With its sparse population and remote location, Coll boasts some of Scotland's darkest night skies. To preserve this natural wonder for future generations, the island has implemented a quality outdoor lighting management plan, ensuring its continued darkness and allure for residents and visitors alike.
Cranborne Chase Location Wiltshire, South West England Status International Dark Sky Reserve (Provisional) Year of Designation 2019 Area 983km2
The Cranborne Chase National Landscape, situated in central southern England, spans Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. This chalk plateau, part of the English Chalk Formation, adjoins Salisbury Plain and the West Wiltshire Downs to the north and the Dorset Downs to the southwest. Covering 379 square miles (983 square kilometres), it is the sixth-largest National Landscape in the UK.
Cranborne Chase International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
A touring park with outstanding views over the Chalke Valley, Coombe is adjacent to Salisbury racecourse. There are 100 spacious pitches all on level, well mown grass, 73 with 10A electricity. Tent pitches are generally around the outer perimeter and there are six caravan holiday homes to rent. Many pitches are individual and sheltered by mature hedging. Reception also has a small shop, there are supermarkets in Salisbury (4.5 miles) and pubs in Netherhampton and Coombe Bissett (2 miles), both serving meals.
Elan Valley Estate Location Powys, Mid Wales Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2015 Area 180km2
The Elan Valley in central Wales, purchased by the Birmingham Corporation in 1892 to provide clean water for Birmingham, now draws tourists for its pristine natural beauty and dark skies. Managed by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water since 1973, the Elan Valley Trust, established in 1989, safeguards its resources and promotes public access and environmental education.
Recognising the importance of preserving its dark skies, the Trust has implemented a lighting plan to maintain its quality, situated between the International Dark Sky Reserve at Brecon Beacons National Park and Snowdonia National Park.
Disserth Caravan and Camping Park is tucked away under the watchful eye of St Cewydd's on the one side and bordered by the babbling river Ithon. This compact sheltered level park has been accommodating travellers for centuries, once it was an overnight stop for drovers heading for the Midlands and now today it is an idyllic location for your caravan, motorhome or tent for a relaxing rest from the hustle and bustle of modern living or a base from which to explore the natural beauty of the Heart of Wales.
Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) Location Gwynedd, North Wales Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2015 Area 2,132km2
Eyri National Park, also known as Snowdonia, is Wales' first National Park. It covers over 2,100 square kilometres, about ten per cent of Wales' total land area. Originally centred around Snowdon mountain, it now extends south into Meirionnydd. Its rugged, sparsely populated terrain creates naturally dark skies, making it one of the darkest regions in southern Britain.
Efforts to protect Snowdonia's night skies have led to the establishment of a Dark Sky Reserve, and education initiatives have informed locals about the value of preserving this natural resource and its appeal to tourism.
Located in the glorious lush surroundings of Snowdonia National Park, Coed-y-Llwyn Caravan and Motorhome Club site is a sight to behold for those visiting for the first time. The site is particularly geared up for outdoor lovers, who can venture up Snowdon (a short drive from the site), enjoy the range of water sports at Lake Bala, find safe sandy beaches on the Lleyn Peninsula, play golf at Porthmadog, and cycle in the mountain bike centre at Coed-y-Brenin. Cycling can also be enjoyed at Blaenau Ffestiniog. Zip World, home to the largest and longest zip lines in Europe is only a short drive away, there are two locations you can enjoy, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Bethesda. The site has 90 mainly hardstanding pitches (some seasonal) all with electricity 16 amp.
This is a delightful, peaceful, eight-acre site owned and operated by the Morris Leisure Group. It is set just a few minutes’ walk away from the beautiful village of Betws-y-Coed, a perfect location to visit the stunning Snowdonia National Park. Betws-y-Coed is widely acclaimed as one of the most attractive villages in Great Britain.
Exmoor National Park Location Somerset, South West England Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2011 Area 181km2
Exmoor National Park, in Somerset and Devon Counties, boasts the darkest skies in England yet remains easily accessible from urban areas. Residents associate its unpolluted nights with a high quality of life. Dark sky awareness surged in 2009 with programs during UNESCO's International Year of Astronomy.
Its 181-square-kilometre core zone minimises human habitation while showcasing points of interest like Bronze Age burial mounds and the Dunkery Horner Wood National Nature Reserve. The park authority collaborates with local authorities and residents on dark-sky initiatives supported by the Campaign to Protect Rural England.
Set on a small hillside, Minehead Caravan and Motorhome Club site is spread across several flat areas, all of which are attractively screened from the road with plentiful trees and bushes. For shopping and all the attractions of a traditional British seaside resort, Minehead is only a 15-minute walk away. Other tempting attractions to visit when touring in Somerset are Dunster Castle and beautiful Exmoor, famous as Lorna Doone country, which is also a popular draw especially for walkers and those with dogs. There are also excellent bus links to explore the Quantocks, Porlock, Taunton and Dulverton. The site has 49 hardstanding pitches all with 16 amp electricity.
Occupying a prime position in a wooded valley alongside the River Exe, within the National Park, Exe Valley Caravan Site is ideally situated for visiting Tarr Steps, Dulverton, the North Somerset coast and many other beautiful places in the area. This quiet, adult only, four-acre campsite is owned and managed by Paul and Christine Matthews and their excellent wardens. Set beside the River Exe, or the millstream, there are 50 large pitches (mostly grass but with some hardstandings at the top end and one near the entrance), of which 47 have 10A electricity and TV hook-ups (cable provided on loan). Reception is now at the entrance. The owner’s home is an old mill, complete with working water wheel and millstones, that opens to visitors most Sundays at 10 am.
This superbly located farm campsite can be found nestling in a valley beside the River Exe. The working farm provides four meadows, all without electricity, and is ideal for ‘back to basics’ style touring. Uniquely, open fires are permitted in one field with logs being available to purchase. You can marvel at the wildlife, wander around the working farm and sample the farm’s own produce in the shop, which also stocks basic provisions. Walking maps can be found at reception which is located in the old dairy.
Galloway Forest Park Location Dumfries & Galloway, Southern Scotland Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2009 Area 774km2
Established in 1947, Galloway Forest Park in southern Scotland covers 78,000 hectares, making it the UK's largest forest park. About 20 per cent of the park is preserved for dark skies and wildlife, with strict no-illumination policies.
Renowned as one of the UK's premier stargazing spots, the park's management prioritises protecting its dark skies, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations through a new lighting management plan.
Galloway Forest International Dark Sky Park Campsites
An ideal location for a relaxing holiday, Garlieston Caravan and Motorhome Club site is both peaceful and picturesque. Divided into two sections for choice of comfort, one section of the site offers beautiful views overlooking the bay, while the other provides a far more secluded and sheltered space for those who enjoy extra privacy and quiet. The site has 60 grass/hardstanding pitches all with 16 amp electricity.
Loch Ken Holiday Park is a very well maintained site on the shore of the loch, opposite the RSPB bird reserve and the Galloway Forest Park – it is a peaceful haven in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Kerry Location Co. Kerry, Ireland Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2014 Area 700km2
Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve, nestled on the Iveragh Peninsula along the Wild Atlantic Way tourism trail, covers around 700 square km and is home to nearly 4,000 residents. Its position between the Kerry Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean naturally shields it from excessive light pollution.
Ireland's fascination with the night sky dates back thousands of years, evidenced by Neolithic stone monuments on the peninsula constructed to track celestial cycles. Experts suggest that ancient Ogham-language inscriptions found in the area may also reflect celestial observations.
A tranquil, beautifully located seashore park, it is no exaggeration to describe Mannix Point as a nature lovers’ paradise. Situated in one of the most spectacular parts of the Ring of Kerry, overlooking the bay and Valentia Island, the rustic seven-acre park commands splendid views in all directions.
Mayo Location Co. Mayo, Ireland Status International Dark Sky Park - Gold-Tier Year of Designation 2016 Area 150km2
Mayo Dark Sky Park, within Wild Nephin National Park, spans about 15,000 hectares in northwest County Mayo, Republic of Ireland. Protected in the Owenduff/Nephin Mountains, it preserves one of Europe's largest peatland expanses, crucial for diverse species.
With low population density and minimal urbanization, Mayo enjoys exceptionally dark night skies, aided by its coastal location. Efforts to promote regional tourism and educate nearby communities on dark sky preservation have boosted awareness, enhancing the park's profile in northwest Ireland.
This park offers a taste of island life and the opportunity to relax in dramatic, scenic surroundings. Achill, Ireland’s largest island, is 24 km. long and 19 km. wide and is connected to the mainland by a bridge. The wide-open site is situated beside the Blue Flag beach near Keel Village. Although static holiday mobile homes are on this site, the 84 touring pitches are kept separate. There are 50 pitches with hardstanding, and some are located at the perimeter fence overlooking the beach. Although sand-based, the ground is firm and level. Roads are tarmac, and there is direct access to the beach, which lifeguards supervise.
Moffat Location Dumfries & Galloway, Southern Scotland Status International Dark Sky Community Year of Designation 2016 Area 187km2
Moffat, Scotland, nestled by the River Annan, was once frequented by Robert Burns and now hosts around 2,500 residents. Transitioning from its spa town past, it's now a burgeoning tourist spot vital to the local economy.
Despite losing its historical autonomy under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, Moffat actively pursued changes in outdoor lighting policies through Dumfries and Galloway Council. This effort secured IDA accreditation, enhancing protection not just for Moffat but for the entire council area, including the renowned Galloway Forest Park International Dark Sky Park.
Moffat Camping & Caravanning Club site is located close to the pretty Victorian spa town. Moffat warrants a long stay with its fine setting surrounded by magnificent scenery. The carefully laid out site has a good range of well placed facilities catering for everyone’s needs. Nearby Station Park offers a variety of attractions including a boating lake and gardens. The town holds an annual walking festival in October and from the site you can access some of the finest hill walking in the south of Scotland. Also close by is the Grey Mare's Tail, a magnificent waterfall dropping 200ft from Loch Skene. The site has 180 grass or hardstanding pitches with electric hook-up.
Moore’s Reserve Location Sussex, Southern England Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2016 Area 1627km2
Established in 2011, South Downs National Park is England's latest addition to its national park system, spanning 140 kilometres (87 miles) across southern England. Named after its chalk downland terrain, the park accommodates approximately 108,000 residents and attracts around 39 million visitors annually.
Despite its proximity to the heavily light-polluted Greater London area, the park preserves relatively dark skies, a feat attributed to its efforts in securing Dark Sky Reserve status. This designation, paying homage to the astronomical contributions of local legend Sir Patrick Moore, safeguards the park from encroaching urbanisation and offers authentic nighttime experiences to over ten million people within a two-hour train journey.
Moore’s Reserve International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
Littlehampton Caravan and Motorhome Club site is set on the outskirts of this delightful seaside resort, and just a 30 minute brisk walk away from the town centre and its beautiful beach and promenade. Visit Littlehampton's beautiful, natural harbour at the mouth of the River Arun. With lovely waterside restaurants, funfair, a golf course, museum and the 'Look and Sea' Visitor Centre all within easy reach. The site has 108 hardstanding and grass pitches, some are serviced. All have electricity 16 amp.
Washington is a pleasant campsite to the north of Worthing with a bias towards tenting families and groups. It provides only 21 hardstanding pitches for caravans and motorhomes and a large gently sloping grassy field with enough space for 40 tents. There are 23 electric hook-ups (16A, on meter £1.00). There is some road noise from the A24. Local attractions (all with free admission, check opening times) include Highdown Chalk Gardens at Worthing, Nutbourne Vineyard near Pulborough, and Steyning Museum.
North Ronaldsay Dark Sky Island Location Orkney, Scotland Status International Dark Sky Community Year of Designation 2021 Area 7km2
North Ronaldsay, the northernmost Orkney island, is a haven for migrating birds and is rich in prehistoric and Viking heritage. Mainland Orkney's ancient sites attract global visitors, while the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds preserves vital breeding grounds.
With its observatory, North Ronaldsay aims to promote astrotourism, leveraging its small population for economic sustainability.
North Ronaldsay International Dark Sky Island Community Campsites
North York Moors National Park International Dark Sky Reserve
North York Moors Reserve
North York Moors National Park Location North Yorkshire, England Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2020 Area 1436km2
Designated as a National Park in 1952, the North York Moors is one of the UK's 15 protected landscapes, renowned for its diverse and striking scenery. Offering some of the darkest skies in the country, it boasts vast expanses of unpolluted night sky where lucky observers may even spot the Northern Lights.
As part of its educational initiatives, the park provides a stargazing module, allowing visitors to delve into the wonders of the cosmos.
North York Moors National Park International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
North Yorkshire Moors Caravan and Motorhome Club site is set within the relaxing and tranquil surrounds of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park, the setting for the Heartbeat television series. The site has 90 mainly hardstanding pitches (some seasonal) all with electricity 16amp. Some pitches are pleasantly spacious and open or there is also a choice of more secluded locations, sheltered by trees. There are some spectacular moorland views from the western side of the site with the North Yorkshire Moors being a paradise for walkers. This site offers a variety of beautiful dog walks.
This attractive, family run park is set in a secluded valley, with the higher pitches terraced and the lower ones on a level grassy area either side of the small Cod Beck stream. Of the 80 pitches, 50 are for touring units, all with 10A electricity hook-ups, 12 fully serviced (eight reserved for seasonal), plus three larger super pitches. A further 18 pitches are used for caravan holiday homes and 30 are reserved for seasonal units. A simple site with a tranquil setting, Cote Ghyll is highly suited for lovers of peace and quiet, for birdwatching or for more energetic hobbies such as cycling and walking.
Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park
Northumberland and Kielder
Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park Location Northumbria, England Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2013 Area 1482km2
Once a Roman frontier defended by Hadrian's Wall against Pictish invaders, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park now protects one of England's darkest spots from light pollution.
Covering nearly 1,500 square km of public lands in northern England, it includes Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park, the first dual-unit Dark Sky Park recognised by the International Dark Sky Association. Managed by National Parks UK and Forestry Commission England, it preserves dark skies alongside extensive woodlands and reservoirs.
Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest International Dark Sky Park Campsites
River Breamish Caravan and Motorhome Club site in Alnwick is set amid the Cheviot Hills, with excellent walking and cycling in the scenically beautiful surroundings to keep the active holiday maker happy. Walk from the site into the delightful Breamish Valley where many remains from the Neolithic and Bronze Age, including hill forts and medieval villages can be seen. It is an easy walk into the quaint little village of Powburn. The stunning surrounding scenery and beaches can also be enjoyed, including the long sandy beaches and castle at Bamburgh. The site has 76 mainly hardstanding pitches, all with 16 amp electricity.
Kielder Waterside Caravan Park is nestled in the beauty of Kielder Water & Forest Park. The Park is situated amongst acres of woodland forest, has the largest man-made lake on your doorstep and impeccable dark skies above you at night. You will be in awe from the moment you arrive. The site is the perfect retreat getaway for you and the whole family, including your four-legged friends. Kielder Waterside is a dog-friendly park, with dog walks available on-site and nearby.
OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory Location County Tyrone, Northern Ireland Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2020 Area 14km2
OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory (formerly Davagh Forest) in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, is the region's first International Dark Sky Place. Managed by Forest Service Northern Ireland, this 1,500-hectare protected site boasts the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles amidst its rural landscape.
With walking and biking trails, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities while experiencing some of Northern Ireland's darkest night skies at the Dark Sky Observatory and Visitor Centre which opened in 2020.
This small touring park nestles amid a 70-acre park with a multitude of tree varieties, brightly coloured flower beds and a charming 12-acre fishing lake. The touring pitches, some with lake views, are on hardstanding, each with dedicated water, waste and 16A electricity connections. Hedging provides some separation. There is also an unmarked grass area for tents. Run by Dungannon Council, the park, which also incorporates tennis courts and football and cricket pitches, lies about one mile south of Dungannon town.
Presteigne & Norton Dark Sky Community Location Powys, Mid Wales Status International Dark Sky Community Year of Designation 2023 Area 40km2
The Presteigne & Norton Dark Sky Community in Powys, Wales, covers 40 square kilometres and has 2,700 residents. It combats light pollution caused by blue-rich LEDs introduced in 2008. Led by local councils and Dark Source Lighting Design Studio, the initiative refurbished 380 lighting columns with 2200K LED luminaires, reducing annual CO2 emissions by 4.5 tonnes.
As Wales's first International Dark Sky Community, its success has inspired county-wide lighting schemes, fostering dark sky preservation across Wales and the UK. Accessible by foot, bike, or car, visitors can explore Withybeds for nature walks or enjoy scenic views at the Spaceguard Centre.
Moorhampton Caravan and Motorhome Club site is a lovely small site with good access. Formerly a railway station, the site is nestled in the North Herefordshire countryside. The site has 46 mainly hardstanding pitches, all with electricity 16 amp. Facilities are clean but looking a bit dated with shower curtains over sink cubicles and please note this site does not stock Calor Gas.
Sark Dark Sky Community Location Sark, Channel Islands Status International Dark Sky Community Year of Designation 2011 Area 5.4km2
Sark, Europe's inaugural International Dark Sky Community, is a Channel Island protectorate near Normandy's coast. Drawing up to 40,000 tourists annually with its blend of history and culture, the island offers a unique step back in time, devoid of public lighting and motor vehicles beyond farm tractors.
Its offshore location, minimal residential and commercial electricity usage, and lack of public street lights create ideal conditions for observing the rich Milky Way.
La Valette is one of just two options for simple camping on this wonderful island. Bring your own tent (baggage will be transported for you to and from the harbour) or rent a ready erected tent or one of four smart camping pods. With stunning sea views across to Alderney and France, the large open field slopes in places, although it should always be possible to find a level spot and there is some shelter from hedges if preferred.
‘The island where time stands still’ is an apt description of Sark, one of the smallest inhabited Channel Islands, some 45 minutes from Guernsey by boat. Bicycles, horsedrawn carriages and tractors provide the only transport on the island. Situated five minutes from the shops and ten from the beach, the Pomme de Chien campsite is small with only 50 pitches, some of which are occupied by fully equipped tents to rent (May-September). The remainder are for campers with their own tents (no caravans, motorhomes or trailer tents, of course). The pitches are large, on fairly level grass; there are no electricity hook-ups.
Tomintoul and Glenlivet International Dark Sky Park
Tomintoul and Glenlivet Park
Tomintoul and Glenlivet Location Cairngorms, Scotland Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2018 Area 244km2
The Glenlivet Estate, spanning over 240 square kilometres of Crown Estate land in the Scottish Highlands, forms the Tomintoul and Glenlivet – Cairngorms International Dark Sky Park with additional private lands. Situated entirely within the Moray Council District, it lies within Cairngorms National Park, protecting the region's unique landscape and rare wildlife, including Britain's only reindeer herd.
The estate, renowned for its Scotch whisky production, has seen growing recognition of its dark night skies, leading to improved outdoor lighting and opportunities for local businesses and visitors.
Braemar Caravan Park and Camping Pods are the perfect base for walking, hiking, cycling, photography, snow sports, history, arts and crafts and much more. Braemar Caravan Park is situated In the beautiful village of Braemar, Royal Deeside, at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Operated by the Invercauld Estate, managed for wildlife, sport, recreation and community. The Estate hosts Scotland’s highest 18-hole golf course at Braemar and the Glenshee Ski Centre, which can offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the UK. The Estate also provides salmon fishing and mile upon mile of glorious walks.
There are plenty of excellent walking choices available from Silverbank Caravan and Motorhome Club Site, including some lovely dog walks. The site is an open location just off the Aberdeen to Braemar Road; it runs parallel with the River Dee through some splendid countryside. Nearby Banchory is a popular little holiday town offering a wealth of activities for all the family, including pony trekking, fishing and a golf course. Whilst staying here, you will want to take the time to visit Cairngorm National Park. It has 62 hard standing pitches, some seasonal, all with 16 amp electricity.
West Penwith Location Cornwall, England Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2021 Area 136km2
West Penwith, the westernmost part of the Cornwall peninsula, boasts a landscape shaped by centuries of farming, mining, and ancient monuments, including granite stones with possible astronomical significance. From Neolithic chambered tombs to Bronze Age stone circles, the area is rich in archaeological relics, reflecting early human settlement. Its wild and unspoiled character, devoid of modern pressures, has long inspired writers and artists.
Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), West Penwith benefits from protection and enhancement efforts, preserving its tranquil ambience and dark skies. Ranked as the fourth darkest county in England by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), Cornwall's AONBs ensure that the community values and respects its distinctive landscape, safeguarding it through collaborative planning procedures.
Trevedra Farm is a family run working farm and campsite with dramatic sea views overlooking Land's End and the Isles of Scilly. Established in the late 1930’s by their grandparents, the site is now run by John and Wendy Nicholas. Since 2002 major investments have been made year on year. There are two toilet and shower blocks, with a third open through May - September. The site has 84 touring grass pitches (some seasonal), most of which have electric hook-up, of which 28 are fully serviced. There are also two areas for camping.
Ynys Enlli – Bardsey Island International Dark Sky Sanctuary
Ynys Enlli IDS Sanctuary
Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island) Location Gwynned, North Wales Status International Dark Sky Sanctuary Year of Designation 2023 Area 1.97km2
To safeguard its exceptional night sky, a Lighting Management Plan guides lighting decisions and development proposals across the county. The BITL and partners advocate for similar plans on the Llŷn Peninsula and conduct educational campaigns.
The Bird Observatory offers interactive programs about nocturnal birds, and educational materials on ecology and dark-sky importance are provided. Despite winter weather challenges, the island is accessible year-round, with April to November being ideal. Visitor revenue supports conservation efforts.
Ynys Enlli Dark Sky Sanctuary Campsites
There is no camping on Bardsey Island; the nearest campsites are listed below.
The Willows is a charming, small but spacious site run by a very friendly family and only three miles from the seaside village of Abersoch. It has magnificent views over the Snowdonia mountains to the east, and the coast to the south. You are sure of a very warm welcome here. This is an immaculate site with superb toilet facilities. The generous, reasonably level pitches are laid out around the perimeter of four small fields. There are 44 touring pitches, with 20 on hardstandings for caravans, all with 16A electricity, plus 22 grass pitches without electricity. Large groups and motorhomes over 7 m. are not accepted.
Yorkshire Dales National Park Location Yorkshire, England Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2020 Area 2180km2
Established as a National Park in 1954, the Yorkshire Dales epitomises the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the UK. Its sprawling landscapes, characterised by rolling hills, lush valleys, and meandering rivers, provide a haven for diverse wildlife and offer countless opportunities for outdoor exploration. From quaint villages nestled among the hills to ancient ruins dotting the countryside, the Yorkshire Dales exude a sense of timelessness and tranquillity that captivates visitors.
However, it is perhaps the park's dark skies that truly set it apart. Renowned for its exceptional nightscapes, the Yorkshire Dales offers stargazers and astronomers unparalleled views of the cosmos. Away from the glow of urban light pollution, the park's expansive vistas provide a canvas for the Milky Way to shine in all its glory while constellations twinkle overhead with dazzling clarity.
The Hawes Caravan and Motorhome Club site is set in beautiful Wensleydale, where the famous cheese has been made for nearly a century and offers delightful views. The site is situated between the River Ure and the market town of Hawes and is within the boundary of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park. It has 119 pitches, all hardstanding, ten are serviced, and all have 16 amp electricity.
The CAMC sites set the bar high for facilities and location and the Wharfedale site is no exception. Located about 2 miles from Grassington in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Screened by stately trees the site offers a charming and peaceful location close to many tourist offerings. With great walks and cycling routes direct from the site, the Dales are there to explore. Wildlife abounds and a dog walk is available. Bus stop is just 750 metres from the site. TV reception is poor as is mobile phone signal. For mountain biking, local walks, rock climbing, plus the national cycling network you could not find a better location. With Skipton, Linton Falls, and the National Trust’s Malham Tarn Estate close by you are spoilt for choice.The site has 115 mainly hardstanding pitches all with 16 amp electricity.
Bolton Abbey Estate Caravan and Motorhome Club site is, as always, of a high standard and situated in a quiet rural location north of Bolton Abbey. Located inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park and near too many places to explore and experience to list. With 55 hardstanding pitches, 41 suitable for awnings, and all with 16 amp electricity and a TV point, the site is great for walkers and nature lovers with 72 miles of footpaths directly accessible from the site. Buses are available from a stop 100 yards from the site. No mobile signal is available from the site so social media fans need to sign for the site Wi-Fi. A public telephone is available so have some silver coins. For those wishing to visit the Abbey a pleasant riverside walk is available from the site.
