The Best Stargazing Spots in the North East: Where to See the Stars in Northumberland, Durham, Tyne & Wear and Redcar & Cleveland

Whether you’re chasing the Milky Way or hoping for a glimpse of a meteor shower, the North East of England is one of the UK’s most spectacular regions for stargazing. From the dark skies of Northumberland National Park to hidden coastal gems in Redcar & Cleveland, this corner of the country offers everything from remote tranquillity to family-friendly stargazing events.

We’ve pulled together the best stargazing spots across Northumberland, Durham, Tyne & Wear and Redcar & Cleveland. We’ve also included observatories worth visiting, stargazing events throughout the year, and some cosmic fun facts to inspire your next night under the stars.

Why Stargaze in the North East?

The North East is home to some of the darkest skies in the UK. In fact, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is one of the largest protected areas of night sky in Europe. Whether you’re staying in a countryside retreat or taking a coastal escape, you’re never far from an incredible view of the heavens.

This region’s minimal light pollution, high vantage points, and wide open landscapes make it ideal for spotting constellations, planets, and even the Northern Lights on rare occasions.

Best Stargazing Spots by Region
Northumberland

Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park are hands down the best places to stargaze in the North East—if not the entire UK.

Kielder Observatory:

Located deep in Kielder Forest, this observatory hosts events and astronomy talks all year round. It’s a must-visit for any skywatcher.

Cawfields, Hadrian’s Wall:

A designated Dark Sky Discovery Site with excellent access and panoramic views of the sky.

Stonehaugh:

This peaceful village has its own stargazing pavilion and sculpture trail.

Redcar & Cleveland

While better known for its beaches and industrial past, this area has a few underrated stargazing gems:

Saltburn Cliffs:

On clear nights, head up to the cliffs above the town. You’ll have a wide view over the North Sea, with very little light pollution behind you.

Eston Hills:

Offering a sense of elevation and escape just minutes from Middlesbrough, this is a great accessible stargazing spot.

Durham

Durham has pockets of countryside with surprisingly dark skies, especially in the west.

Hamsterley Forest:

A peaceful forest with marked walking trails and wide clearings ideal for stargazing. Occasionally hosts night-time events.

Derwent Reservoir:

Right on the border of Durham and Northumberland, this spot is remote enough to offer truly dark skies.

Tyne & Wear

This urban region isn’t known for darkness, but you can still enjoy some skywatching with the right timing and location.

Marsden Bay:

The stretch between South Shields and Whitburn offers impressive coastal views and darker skies compared to inner-city Newcastle.

St Mary’s Island, Whitley Bay:

The causeway access to the island adds an atmospheric touch to any stargazing evening. Aim for a new moon and low tide.

Observatories to Visit in the North East

This urban region isn’t known for darkness, but you can still enjoy some skywatching with the right timing and location.

Kielder Observatory

Tucked away in England’s largest forest, this observatory offers night sky safaris, aurora nights, and sessions for families and beginners. Book in advance—it’s incredibly popular!

Twice Brewed Observatory

The Twice Brewed Inn is situated within the Southern boundary of the Northumberland Dark Sky Park.

Wynyard Planetarium & Observatory (Stockton-on-Tees, near Redcar & Cleveland)

Run by volunteers, this small observatory is great for educational talks, seasonal events, and solar observing sessions.

Sunderland Astronomical Society (Coxhoe, Durham)

With public open nights and family-friendly talks, this observatory is a great way to get involved with local stargazers.

Stargazing Events in the North East

This urban region isn’t known for darkness, but you can still enjoy some skywatching with the right timing and location.

Kielder Forest Star Camp (March & October):

A camping and observing event with astronomers from all over the UK.

Dark Skies Festival (Northumberland & Yorkshire Dales):

Held each February, it includes guided night walks, telescope sessions and talks.

Durham University’s Stargazing Nights:

Public science evenings run by the university’s physics department.

Keep an eye on local observatories and Dark Sky websites for seasonal meteor showers, planetary alignments, and moon-gazing nights.

Fun Facts About Stargazing in the North East

The Northumberland International Dark Sky Park spans nearly 580 square miles - bigger than the whole of London!

You can sometimes see the Northern Lights from Northumberland on very clear nights during periods of high solar activity.

Kielder Observatory was built almost entirely by volunteers in 2008, and is now one of the UK’s top astro-tourism attractions.

The Gemini Meteor Shower in December and the Perseids in August are two of the best shows you’ll see from this region.

Final Tips for Exploring the North East Like a Local

Clear Night

Go on a clear, moonless night for the best visibility.

Stargazing App

Download a stargazing app like SkyView or Stellarium to help identify constellations.

Stay Warm

Wrap up warm, even in summer—the nights can be chilly!

Red Torch

Bring a red torch to protect your night vision while navigating.

Stay Late

Stay late - some of the most dramatic views happen after midnight.

Best Stargazing In The North East

Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just love the quiet magic of a starry night, the North East is one of the best places in the UK to look up and dream. From the inky skies of Kielder to cliff-top viewpoints in Saltburn, the stars here tell stories as old as time.

Planning a visit? Browse our holiday homes near these top stargazing locations and turn your celestial adventure into a holiday you’ll never forget.