With minimal artificial lighting and wide, open skies stretching over the surrounding fells, Mungrisdale offers some of the darkest skies in Cumbria – perfect for spotting constellations, meteor showers, and even the Milky Way on a clear night. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just curious about what’s overhead, here are our top tips for making the most of the night sky at Near Howe.
1. Plan where you’re going stargazing
At Near Howe we’d recommend you stargaze on the field where the stone bench is. Please let us know if you’d like to borrow the telescope or other stargazing equipment during your stay.
There are other amazing places in the Lake District to stargaze (such as Wasdale, the Borrowdale Valley or the Langdale Valley). Unfortunately, we can’t allow our telescope off site, but you’re welcome to pre-book our complimentary stargazing pack.
Our stargazing pack (available to use at Near Howe or off-site) includes a picnic blanket, 2 x warm blankets, a flask of hot chocolate and cups, a red torch, binoculars and information on stargazing. We have two packs available on a first come basis.
2. Lighting
Be sure to take a torch with you (there’s one provided in each cottage) to ensure you don’t bump into anything when moving around Near Howe.
However, it can take up to 20 minutes for your eyes to truly adjust to the dark, so give yourself plenty of time to look at the stars. When you’re out on the field, use a red torch (rather than a white torch). The red torch will help keep your eyes adjusted to the dark.
3. Keep warm and cosy
Even in the summer, it can get pretty cold after dark. Layers of clothing, a warm hat, and some blankets and a picnic rug will help you enjoy the dark skies above. Take some hot drinks and snacks if you’re planning on being out for a while.
4. Binoculars / Telescope
You can enjoy the night sky with just the naked eye. However, a good pair of binoculars can help you see more details at night, just the same as in the day. If you’re stargazing at Near Howe, you’re also welcome to borrow our Sky-watcher telescope.
5. Information, Guides and Apps
IWe’d also recommend the following apps to download and use when you’re stargazing:
- Star Walk 2 – it’s an easy-to-use app which includes guides to explore the night sky, tips for identifying stars and information about constellations, planets, satellites, asteroids and comets
- SkyView lets you point your phone at the night sky to identify stars, constellations, satellites and more
At Near Howe, we love gazing up at the stars, so feel free to chat to us about it when you stay!
