Northern Ireland boasts some of the darkest skies in the UK, making it a hidden gem for stargazers. With it's remote landscapes and minimal light pollution, you can experience breathtaking views of the night sky, including the Milky Way, countless stars, and even planets. Whether you're an avid astronomer or simply someone who marvels at the beauty of the night sky, there's an experience for everyone in Northern Ireland. The region boasts numerous dark sky discovery sites, where you can escape the city lights and immerse yourself in the beauty of the glistening stars. There are also several active astronomy clubs that offer opportunities to learn more about astronomy, attend stargazing events, and connect with other stargazers.
Unforgettable Stargazing Experiences
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium
The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is Northern Ireland's leading astronomical research and education facility. In the Planetarium's Digital Full Dome Theatre, you can sit back, relax and experience the wonders of our Universe. Take a tour of the night sky and discover how the scientific research has impacted the field of astronomy.
The venue is hosting a series of stargazing evenings between January 24th and March 7th, 2025. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the cosmos through guided telescope observations, planetarium shows, and expert astronomers on hand to answer questions. A special session on December 6th will include members of the Irish Astronomical Association, who will provide tips on setting up telescopes and what to look for in the night sky.
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
Located in Davagh Forest, Co. Tyrone, this International Dark Sky Park offers unparalleled views of the night sky in the heart of Ulster. Fully guided tours of the centre give visitors the opportunity to experience the night sky as it is rarely seen. Combining the latest tech, from holographic installations to virtual reality headsets, and bespoke evening audio-visual shows, visitors to the centre can explore the solar system. And all this, with nearly zero light pollution, since Davagh is the only official ‘dark sky’ park in NI. There are many things you can observe throughout the year, and while you may need a telescope or binoculars for some, others you can enjoy without.
For those more adventurous, spend a night under the stars learning about the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles and gazing at the constellations through a state-of-the-art telescope. The Stars and Stones Experience invites you to step back in time and learn about these ancient stones, which are reputedly the first observatory in the area. You’ll be joined by a local story-teller and guide explaining the link between archaeology and astronomy.
They also host the OM Odyssey, an outdoor film projection on to the outside of the Observatory building. Running from October to February on selected dates, this film takes you on a journey through time and space.
For avid stargazers, get invloved with monthly New Moon Observing Sessions and become a member of the AstronOMy Club (could be a great birthday or Christmas gift?!)
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
The north coast is not only home to the famous Giant’s Causeway but also has some of the darkest night skies on the island of Ireland. Carrick-a-rede rope bridge is a National Trust site and was granted Dark Sky Discovery status in 2014; currently one of only two sites in Northern Ireland.
Top tip: The car park for the rope bridge makes for an excellent stargazing location with free 24 hour access; a place where anyone can stargaze.
Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demense
The lack of light pollution makes this popular north coast spot a prime location to set up your telescope. On a clear night, you can see thousands of stars, including the Milky Way. The sound of waves crashing below this hilltop location makes for a relaxing evening. Mussenden Temple itself is a beautiful sight, and it adds to the overall experience on the rugged headland. The vast open space a reminder of how small we are before the canopy of stars.
Oxford Island on the shores of Lough Neagh
Located on the South-East shores of Lough Neagh, the Oxford Island Nature Reserve has also been recognised for its dark skies by the International Dark Sky Association as a Dark Sky Discovery Site.
Note: Whilst this site is open to pedestrians at all times, the gates are locked to vehicles overnight.
Chasing The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display, primarily visible at high latitudes. They are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with atoms in the Earth's atmosphere to create a tapestry of colour so beautiful that it's likely on your bucket list.
The Northern Lights are most prominent in Northern Ireland during the winter months, from September to March. However, as they are a natural phenomenon, there is no guarantee that you will see them on any particular night.
Your best chance of seeing them is during a period of high solar activity, when there are more charged particles from the sun. You'll need a clear north horizon away from sources of light pollution. The further north you go, the better. This makes the north coast a great place to begin. Some popular locations include Dunluce Castle, Rathlin Island and Ballintoy Harbour.
It's essential to check the weather for clear skies and low temperatures in advance of setting off, and we recommend checking Aurora Watch UK which provides real-time information on the Aurora Borealis. Sign up to free alerts so you'll never miss an opportunity, or if you are looking for more information, The Irish Astronomical Association provide great tips for chasing the northern lights on the island of Ireland.
Unique Stargazing Accommodations
If you are visiting the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, then you'll want to check out the Sperrin View Glamping pods just around the corner, at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains. These luxurious pods include a "viewing window" allowing you to stargaze from the comfort of your bed.
At Cromore Retreat you can also relax in a luxurious buble dome under the vast night sky, while at Burrenmore Nest, a charming accommodation in Coleraine, you will find yourself sleeping amongst the trees in a cosy cabin, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. For an added touch of luxury, sink back and relax in an outdoor whirpool bath under the stars. Or for those who want to try glamping under the stars, Black Knowe in Ballycastle offers sites complete with fire pits, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the sky with the flickers of flames to keep you warm.
Nestled in the Mourne Mountains, Willowtree Glamping offers stunning log cabins with private hot tubs under starry skies. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the serenity of the mountains under the vast blue canopy. Or Imagine sleeping under the stars in a transparent bubble dome nestled within a private forest. Finn Lough Forest Domes offer unparalleled views of the night sky, perfect for a romantic getaway. These unique accommodations offer the perfect vantage point for gazing at the wonders of the world beyond, all from the comfort of your bed.
No matter your budget or preference, Northern Ireland offers a variety of options to experience the magic of stargazing. Remember to check the visibility before setting off, and always plan your trip in advance.
Get ready to be amazed by the beauty of the night sky!
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is “the place for space”. Watch an amazing Full Dome Theatre show and explore the Universe. Immerse yourself in the latest scientific research in the exhibition area and take a relaxing walk through the Astropark taking in our trails.
Take a journey through time and space with a visitor experience that’s out of this world. Book your visit to Northern Ireland’s only International Dark Sky Park.
The true definition of a hidden gem, Davagh Forest is an International Dark Sky Park and lies approximately 6 miles north west of Cookstown in an untouched rural landscape of rolling hills and sweeping forests.
Mysterious complex of 7 Bronze Age stone circles and alignments. It's where megalithic tombs and the mysterious Beaghmore stone circles stand as silent witnesses to the settlements that thrived here 6,000 years ago.
Boasting the darkest sky in the heart of ancient Ulster, you can spend the evening and night at the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains, by the edge of Davagh Forest and the Beaghmore Stone Circles. Wrap yourself in a blanket of stars overhead and imagine your place in all of this.
A film projection on to the outside of the Observatory building, our OM Odyssey will take you on a journey through time and space.
Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.
Carrick-a-Rede one of Northern Ireland’s most loved attractions in Northern Ireland, cared for by the National Trust, a registered conservation charity founded to protect beautiful and special places for ever, for everyone.
Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.
Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is a peninsula created by successive lowering of Lough Neagh. Four miles of footpaths, five birdwatching hides, woodland, ponds, wildflower meadows, picnic and play areas.
Dunluce Castle is located dramatically close to a headland that plunges straight into the sea, along the North County Antrim coast.
Amidst the rugged landscape of this isolated island, you can let your mind wander and discover a tranquillity and beauty that is so unexpected.
Ballintoy Harbour can be discovered in the picturesque village of Ballintoy. Known as a ‘raised beach’, it is located alongside the B15 Coast Road, 17 miles north-east of Coleraine and five miles west of Ballycastle.
This unique glamping site is situated in Northern Ireland's only designated dark sky site. Each pod features it's own specially manufactured viewing window, allowing guests to lay in bed a gaze upon the stars.
These adult-only bubble domes are meticulously designed to provide an unobstructed view of the night sky. As dusk settles, watch as the forest transforms under a blanket of twinkling stars. Each bubble dome is secured in its own private gated area, ensuring no disturbance during your relaxing stay.
These treetop boutique lodges are surrounded by 82 hectares of forest park within the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, moments away from Benone Beach and the stunning National Trust Downhill and Mussenden Temple estate.
Enjoy our luxury glamping pod accommodation looking out to the stunning Fair Head, Ballycastle. Pods are for 2 adults and 2 kids, cosy, fully furnished and have all the comforts of home including electric, running water, mini fridge and heating.
Unplug and unwind in The Goldfinches Retreat or Skylarks Retreat, 2 beautiful hand crafted luxurious Cabins. At the foot of the Mournes you will feel like you are floating above the fields. With a large picture window providing panoramic views for the famous Mourne Mountains and bifold doors out into your own private patio complete with a Hot Tub feel all your stress just disappear.
The Forest Bubble Domes feature 180° transparent walls allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature. Escape the noise of the outside world and enjoy stargazing in comfort for the perfect romantic break in Northern Ireland.
