As Meteor Leonid quickly approaches our little blue planet, we thought it was about to time we let you know the best spots in scotland to view the specticel. We’ve picked out 5 of the best places to view the event with the least amount of light pollution. PLease bare it in mind, that these spots are all fairly rural and will take some getting too. Keeping this mind, here’s our lists! We hope you find it helpful.

 COLL

One of the greatest sites to stargaze in the UK is this little island off the west coast of mainland Scotland. The International Black Sky Association designated the Isle of Coll as a “dark sky community” in 2013, indicating that it has exceptionally little light pollution, allowing for unobstructed views to watch the stars. From August to March, when the heavens are at their darkest, is the greatest time to visit for a stargazing vacation. In the height of summer, the sun shines virtually all day! Because the island is rather level, practically location on the island is perfect for seeing the night sky in all its glory, weather permitting.

MOFFAT

Moffat was designated Europe’s first ‘black sky town’ after using customised street lights to reduce light pollution. The town, which is located in Dumfries & Galloway, has a light quality comparable to that of rural places and is an excellent spot to stay and stargaze in Scotland. If you’re planning a trip, look into Moffat accommodations. The surrounding hills and nearby part of the Southern Upland Way offer great walking options during daylight hours, while the River Annan is a popular fishing spot.

GALLOWAY FOREST PARK

Galloway Forest Park, the UK’s largest forest park in Dumfries & Galloway, has an extraordinarily black night sky. Galloway Forest Park has a low population density, which means the nights are very clear. Clatteringshaws Loch and Kirroughtree Visitor Centre are excellent places to see the night sky, and expert Dark Sky Rangers host regular stargazing programmes and guided tours. Find a place to stay in Dumfries & Galloway and start organising your South Scottish stargazing experience now.

NORTH RONALDSAY

North Ronaldsay, Orkney’s northernmost island, has traditionally been associated with dark and bright night sky. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that the island was designated as a ‘black sky island.’ On winter nights, the stars will twinkle and shimmer throughout the sky in a breathtakingly spectacular show. You could even see the Northern Lights dancing in red and green if the conditions are correct. You can also meet the island’s famed seaweed-eating sheep and visit the UK’s tallest land-based lighthouse on a journey to this isolated region of Scotland.

 Tomintoul and Glenlivet – Cairngorms Dark Sky Park

During the darker months of the year, the Cairngorms’ Tomintoul and Glenlivet areas offer spectacular astronomy possibilities. The Cairngorms Astronomy Group hosts dark sky activities throughout the year. This location is convenient for amateur astronomers, night photographers, and enthusiasts looking for breathtaking vistas.