
Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival
DATES: 14 February – 2 March 2025
plus other dates in October and November 2025
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its renowned Dark Skies Festival from February 14 to March 2, 2025. This milestone event offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the night sky, free from light pollution, and to engage in a variety of activities designed to educate and inspire attendees of all ages.
The festival offers numerous opportunities for people to engage in stargazing. This might include guided night sky walks, astronomy talks, and telescope viewing sessions led by experts. Attendees also have the chance to participate in workshops and seminars covering various topics related to astronomy, astrophotography, and the science behind the night sky.
Many events are designed to be family-friendly, encouraging children and adults alike to learn about the wonders of the night sky.

Key Events and Activities
The 2025 festival boasts a diverse lineup of events catering to various interests and age groups. Here are some highlights:
- Planet Trails: From February 1 to March 2, visitors can explore the Buckden–Hubberholme Planet Trail, a free, self-guided 1.5-mile (2.5 km) walk that offers insights into our solar system. Additionally, from February 14 to March 2, a Planet and Constellation Trail will be available in the woodlands at Aysgarth Falls. These trails are designed to be educational and engaging for families.
- Stargazing Talks and Workshops: Throughout the festival, expert astronomers will host talks at prime locations within the park. For instance, on February 12, the Friends of the Dales, in collaboration with the Keighley Astronomical Society, will present an “Introduction to the Wonders of the Night Sky,” combining theoretical knowledge with practical stargazing sessions.
- Dark Skies Champing™: From February 14 to March 2, adventurous attendees can experience “champing” (church camping) at St. Mary’s Church in Arkengarthdale. This unique opportunity allows participants to stay overnight in a historic church, providing an unparalleled setting for stargazing.
- Dark Skies Safari at Broughton Sanctuary: From February 14 to 17, Broughton Sanctuary will host a series of events, including mindful stargazing sessions led by astrophysicist-turned-Zen teacher Mark Westmoquette. Participants can engage in cosmic body-scan meditations and outdoor stargazing, learning the stories behind various constellations. In case of inclement weather, indoor presentations will be provided.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The festival offers numerous events tailored for younger audiences. The “Solar System in a Box” workshop at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes allows children to craft their own miniature solar system. Additionally, the “Bike Ride and Pizza Planet Party” combines culinary fun with a star-themed bike trail, making astronomy accessible and enjoyable for kids.
- Astrophotography Workshops: For photography enthusiasts, workshops will be available to teach techniques for capturing the night sky’s beauty. These sessions cater to various skill levels, ensuring participants can make the most of the dark skies.
- Nocturnal Wildlife Talks and Walks: Beyond astronomy, the festival delves into the lives of nocturnal creatures inhabiting the Yorkshire Dales. Guided walks and talks will shed light on the behaviors and habitats of these animals, offering a holistic view of the park’s nighttime ecosystem.