The clocks are about the go back, there’s a feeling of first frost in the air and, most importantly, the nights are getting deeper and darker. Stargazing season is here.
And in our hidden corner of the country, this time of the year is very special. Tucked away at the border of England’s least populated and most peaceful National Park, the night skies above our stable suites offer an astonishingly clear view of the cosmos.
Northumberland is home to an International Dark Sky Park, attracting stargazers from around the world to marvel at the magic of our universe. And, if you’re lucky enough to stay with us during the dark autumn and winter months, all you have to do is step outside and turn your gaze skyward to enjoy an unforgettable sight.
Follow our guide to stargazing season to spot meteors and the magic of the aurora during your stay.
November
In November, the Pleiades star cluster will be visible to the naked eye. One of the most easy-to-spot star patterns, it is also known as the ‘Seven Sisters’.
As its name suggests, seven bright stars are easily recognisable within the Taurus constellation – however there are 1,000 stars within the cluster, approximately 440 light years from earth.
On the 5th of November a super moon will light up the sky. The Beaver Moon will be the closest supermoon to earth in 2025, appearing brighter and larger than others.
And on the 12th November, the peak of the Taurids meteor shower will take place, with a rate of around 5 meteors per hour anticipated.
December
From the 4th to the 20th of December, the Geminid meteor shower will be active.
One of the best meteor shower displays of 2025, its peak on the 14th of December will bring up to 150 meteors per hour. Slower than other showers, Geminid meteors are easier to spot and appear to last longer in the night sky.
December the 21st is Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year – and with so much darkness, the perfect time to immerse yourself in the inky dark of Northumberland’s pristine night skies.
Northern Lights
If you’ve always dreamt of experiencing the enchantment of the Aurora Borealis for yourself, you’re in luck! 2025 has been a great year for sightings of the Northern Lights.
According to astronomers, for the clearest view – northern locations with minimal light pollution and dark skies are the best locations to view the Northern Lights. And, nestled in miles of unspoilt countryside, far from city lights and beneath award-winning night skies you have an improved chance of a clear, bright view from our stable suites in rural Northumberland.
Whether you take a trip to nearby Kielder Observatory for a guided stargazing experience or simply step outside, hot toddy in hand, to immerse yourself in the wonder of the night sky, our stable suites are perfectly placed to experience stargazing magic in Northumberland.
