Nocturnal tourism, or ‘noctourism’, has been a growing trend in the UK in the last couple of years. For many people, heading into the wilderness to seek out dark patches of sky unspoiled by the bright lights of the city offers a chance to see the stars and galaxies above us in a way they could never get at home.
Some of the best places to do this are the UK’s beaches. These can provide an exceptional setting for noctourism, as remote coastal locations are often far from urban light pollution, making them prime spots for observing the night sky.
They’re also ideal destinations for caravanners and motorhome enthusiasts. What could be better than setting up camp on a secluded beach and listening to the rhythmic crash of waves while gazing up at a sky illuminated by countless stars?
To give you some inspiration, coastal holiday accommodation specialist Simply Sea Views has put together a list of the best beach locations in the UK from which to see the stars. Founder and coastal expert at the company Josh Williams said: “Exploring the beach under the moonlight and stars offers a completely different experience to daytime visits. Many people don’t realise just how magical the coast can be at night, especially in areas with low light pollution.”
The top five locations listed by the company are:
Ardalanish Beach, Isle of Mull
With its vast, open shoreline and absence of artificial light, Ardalanish Beach provides a stunning vantage point for stargazing. The clear night sky often reveals the Scorpio and Sagittarius constellations.
Kilickeon Beach, Isle of Mull
Not too far from the number one spot – so easy to take in during the same visit – Kilvickeon Beach offers one of the darkest skies on the Isle of Mull. It’s a prime location for catching meteor showers, spotting planets and even seeing the elusive Northern Lights.
Scolt Head Island National Nature Reserve, North Norfolk
This remote island sanctuary provides an unspoiled setting for stargazing. Visit in the spring and autumn months, when atmospheric conditions are at their best, to see the Milky Way in all its glory.
North Shore, Holy Island, Northumberland
The rugged landscape of Holy Island makes for an incredible backdrop to an evening under the stars. The North Shore in particular offers excellent visibility, allowing visitors to take in the cosmos.
West Bexington Beach, Dorset
A peaceful retreat along the Jurassic Coast, West Bexington Beach offers dark skies perfect for stargazing. With the gentle sound of waves lapping the shore, it’s an idyllic spot to watch the constellations slowly move across the night sky.
Photo credit: Unsplash/Khamkéo
