The Northumberland Coast National Landscape is one of the best locations in England to get a clear view of the night sky and a chance to see the Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights).
The night skies of the National Landscape are intrinsically dark because of the North Sea and relatively sparse settlement along the coast.
Most of the UK’s population live in towns and cities and as such the experience of seeing the night sky is becoming rarer because of light pollution. According to the findings of CPRE’s Star Count, three quarters of people living in the UK have an obscured view of the night sky and ‘only 5% of people can enjoy the wonder of a truly dark starry sky’.
The best places to stargaze are away from any light pollution, and the rural character of the Northumberland Coast National Landscape lends itself well to this.
While a telescope is the preferred option for astronomers, the wonders of the night sky can be seen with the naked eye or using a pair of binoculars.
There are dark spots and small pull-in car parks along the coast such as at Cocklawburn, the stretch between Seahouses and Bamburgh, or at Goswick.
The National Landscape has one designated Dark Sky Discovery Site at Embleton Quarry Nature Reserve. We have awarded the site this status in recognition of its excellent dark sky quality and low levels of light pollution.
You can watch live dark sky camera footage over Embleton Quarry Nature Reserve at Northumberland-astro.space/sky-cameras/.
The Conservation Team is a volunteer initiative carrying out vital tasks.
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Discover the traditional villages and lively harbours in the Northumberland Coast National Landscape.
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