Best Stargazing Spots in North Wales

Anglesey and North Wales has been referred to as a “stargazers paradise” as it offers some of the darkest skies in the world.

Wales proudly boasts two protected International Dark Sky Reserves which recognises areas that exceptionally display the quality of the stary night sky by being naturally dark or free from light pollution. With only 20 International Dark Sky Reserves worldwide and skies in Wales considered 18% certified dark – this makes Wales one of the best places in the world to reveal a rich celestial display.

Snowdonia National Park is only a 40 minute drive from Tyddyn Isaf Camping and Caravan Park and is the second area in Wales to be rewarded with the title of an International Dark Sky Reserve. It is highly recommended for any keen astronomer to visit Snowdonia where you can admire the Milky Way, major constellations including Orion, Seven Sisters, The Plough, and The North Star, shooting stars and oftentimes some nebulas that can all be seen by the naked eye.

Image of Llanddwyn taken by Mel Hughes (FB: Images of Anglesey)

Anglesey has some of the darkest spots in Wales with Llanddwyn Island being recognised as one of the best locations to stargaze. If you’re lucky enough to visit Anglesey.

South Stack is another highly recommended location to view the stars and is a favourite for photographers – astrophotography in particular. South Stack lighthouse is positioned to the South West, so the Milky Way becomes a stunning backdrop for the lighthouse.

Penmon Lighthouse is situated on the North East coast of Anglesey and has the perfect conditions for anyone wanting to admire the constellations. Penmon is also the ideal location if you’re wanting to capture the magical bio luminescent algae that only appears during certain times of the year, and the natural phenomenon of the Northern lights.

Image of Penmon Lighthouse taken by Mel Hughes (FB: Images of Anglesey)

Conservation is incredibly important to us here at Tyddyn Isaf Camping and Caravan Park and we have gone to great lengths to ensure that we do not disturb the wildlife around us. Artificial light pollution can disrupt ecosystems by altering the environment of nocturnal animals, interfering with the reproduction of amphibians, taking away the cover needed for prey, as well as confusing the navigation of migratory birds.

Here at Tyddyn Isaf, we have installed sympathetic, motion sensor lighting around the park, including our recycling centre, which ensures the lights are only used when there isn’t adequate daylight. The lighting is also dark sky friendly, meaning that light pollution is significantly reduced as they are emitting light from below, rather than above. Guests at Tyddyn Isaf Camping and Caravan Park have the perfect spot from their pitch, to sit and gaze at the celestial display without the need to travel, all while hedgehog and bat spotting during the night.