Best Stargazing Spots near Penrhos Park

The area surrounding Penrhos Park is a fantastic spot for stargazing due to its low levels of light pollution. While not in an official Dark Sky Reserve, our proximity to these protected areas, such as the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, means you have access to some of the darkest skies in the UK.

Recommended Stargazing Locations

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park About a 30-minute drive southwest of Penrhos Park, the Pembrokeshire Coast is a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site. The rugged coastline and open landscapes provide excellent, unobstructed views of the night sky. Popular spots include the National Trust car parks at Broad Haven South and Poppit Sands. On clear nights, you can often see the Milky Way with the naked eye.

Cambrian Mountains To the northeast of Penrhos Park, the Cambrian Mountains are often referred to as the ‘Green Desert of Wales’ due to their remote and sparsely populated nature. This area offers some of the country’s most pristine dark skies. The Elan Valley Estate is a designated International Dark Sky Park and a perfect location for serious stargazers, with regular events and workshops hosted by Dark Sky Wales.

Brecon Beacons National Park While a bit farther away, the Brecon Beacons is a world-renowned International Dark Sky Reserve. The National Park Visitor Centre near the village of Libanus is a recognised Dark Sky Discovery Site with good facilities and regular stargazing events. This is a great option if you’re willing to make a longer drive for a guaranteed world-class stargazing experience.

Stargazing Tips and Best Times to Go

• Clear skies are essential. Use a reliable weather app or an astronomy app to check for cloud cover and moon phases.

• The best time to stargaze is during a new moon, as the lack of moonlight allows fainter stars and celestial objects to be more visible. The period from September to March is generally considered the best time for stargazing in the UK due to longer nights.

• It takes about 20 minutes for your eyes to fully adapt to the darkness. Avoid looking at your phone screen or other white lights during this time. Using a red-light torch can help preserve your night vision.

• Even on a mild evening, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, especially in open areas. Wear multiple layers and bring a warm hat and gloves.
  

We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Penrhos Park – you’ll experience stargazing like never before.