As NASA’s Artemis II astronauts make history as the first people in more than 50 years to travel around the moon – venturing farther from Earth than any humans before – the world is watching in awe. And we’re falling back in love with all things lunar.
Want to see it at its best? You’ll need dark skies. They’re harder to find than they once were, but there are still places across the UK where the moon appears brighter, sharper and far more dramatic.
Below are some of the top UK spots for the very best views tonight and for any future moon gazing...
Northumberland Dark Sky Park
One of the darkest places in England, its huge open landscapes make it ideal for uninterrupted views and dramatic moonrises.
Exmoor National Park
England’s first International Dark Sky Park (a protected area with minimal light pollution), has wide horizons and perfect coastal viewpoints. Expect clear, bright views – especially from higher ground.
Brecon Beacons, Wales
Big skies and mountain backdrops make this one of the most striking places to watch the moon rise.
Snowdonia, Wales
High elevation and low light pollution make this one of the best places for crisp, detailed views of the moon. In fact, it's ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Yorkshire Dales & North York Moors
Easier to reach than more remote dark sky sites, this spot offers excellent conditions for night-sky viewing. Also, the vast open moorland means clear sightlines.
Bodmin Moor, Cornwall
Wild, open and low-lit. Bodmin Moor's wide horizons and lack of artificial light make it ideal for watching the moon rise uninterrupted.
Galloway Forest Park, Scotland
One of the darkest locations in Europe. The contrast between deep darkness and bright moonlight is especially dramatic here.
Scottish Highlands
Some of the darkest skies in the UK. Remote and expansive, with vast open landscapes and very little artificial light, the Scottish Highlands are ideal for clear, uninterrupted views.
Binoculars for stargazing
