Look up at a starry sky or across a moonlit landscape for a memorable and magical experience…

The North Wessex Downs has significant areas of dark skies with 15% as dark as any in the country.  The land has legal protection through its designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty but the sky above is not protected in the same way and is under threat from excessive artificial lighting.

Dark skies add to the beauty, tranquillity and sense of remoteness of a place.  The more of us that experience the magic of the night sky, the more value we place on it and want to protect it for future generations.  Take a look at our Stargazing page and leaflet for information about some of the best places to experience the thrill of a night sky in the North Wessex Downs and how to get started.  Or go to our interactive map and select the filter for ‘Stargazing’.

So, look up! Dark skies are definitely outstanding, natural and beautiful…

Image: Stars over Silbury Hill (credit GreatWestWay.co.uk)