Conditions for seeing the Northern Lights are particularly good at present, but it takes more than just luck to see this natural phenomenon in all its glory.
Increase your chances of experiencing this wonderful light show by planning a caravan or motorhome trip to one of the UK’s hotspots.
The folks at LeaseCar.uk have put together a list of the destinations where you’ll have the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights in 2024.
Tim Alcock, motoring expert from LeaseCar.uk, said: “The Northern Lights can only be described as one of the most beautiful sights to ever lay your eyes on.
“While you can’t just look out of your window and hope the lights will appear, there are some locations in the UK and Ireland that have higher chances of them showing such as Wales, the Shetland Islands and Yorkshire.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience witnessing the Northern Lights so we highly recommend making the most of the darker nights to view the breathtaking display.”
The Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria’s clear skies make the Lake District a good spot for seeing the Aurora Borealis and even if the Northern Lights don’t appear, a stunning view of the stars is always a delightful sight.
For the best possible odds in Cumbria, head to Grizedale Forest, where the lights have been known to put on a spectacular show.
Isle of Anglesey, Wales
Wales has been known to witness the Aurora in Gwynedd, Conwy and Denbighshire, but the nation’s biggest island still offers the most consistent displays.
Anglesey has seen the Northern Lights regularly in recent years and offers visitors the chance to escape light pollution for a colourful scene.
Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
Pack up your leisure vehicle and head for Scotland to up your chances of a viewing. Despite sitting on the edge of the country’s capital city, Arthur’s Seat enjoys views of the Aurora.
It’s a steep climb to the summit of the extinct volcano, but it’ll be worth it if you see the Northern Lights and if they’re a no-show, the view of the city is also pretty special.
Shetland Islands, Scotland
If Edinburgh doesn’t deliver, then drive further north and pitch up on the remote Shetland Islands.
Here, the green and purple glow of the Northern Lights shines bright on clear nights. While the journey may be long, your chances are better here than in most other parts of the UK.
Whitley Bay, North Tyneside
Whitley Bay’s lighthouse has become a familiar sight in pictures of the Northern Lights, with the wonder being spotted off the North Tyneside coast as recently as October 2023.
Conveniently located not far from Newcastle, St Mary’s Lighthouse could be the backdrop for your very own Aurora snaps this year.
Photo credit: Pixabay/rauschenberger
