Northumberland proudly offers some of the best stargazing experiences and clearest night skies in England and is home to Europe's largest International Dark Sky Park.

Northumberland National Park along with Kielder Water & Forest Park and Kielder Observatory Astronomical Society hold the prestigious award of Gold Tier 'Dark Sky Status' from the International Dark Skies Association; the leading international organisation combating light pollution worldwide.

Billions of shimmering stars making up our Milky Way, a plethora of planets, dazzling meteor showers and the glow of galaxies like Andromeda - the dark skies of Northumberland, as seen on Robson Green's Tales from Northumberland, are home to star gazing opportunities that are out of this world.

Around 85% of the UK population has never seen a truly dark sky. So for an astronomic experience that won't cost the universe head to Northumberland.

The autumn and winter months in Northumberland offer the best opportunity for unrivalled stargazing. The beauty of the lack of light pollution is you don't need a powerful telescope to enjoy the night sky. Many accommodation providers in the Dark Sky Park offer star gazing packs, including binoculars, a flask and a star chart – perfect for discovering the amazing sights from a deck chair in the garden, a dark sky discovery site or even through a skylight window!

If you'd like to learn more about the fascinating night sky, Kielder Observatory offers a variety of stargazing events, with experts on hand to guide your exploration of the universe.

For more information, press trip enquires or competition prizes please contact Natalie on 01670 794520 or Natalie.wood@northumberlandtourism.co.uk