Solar eclipse viewing at Dunwich Heath with DASH Astro
Wednesday 12th August 2026 from 17:45pm to 20:30pm
Dunwich Heath and Beach - National Trust
Minsmere Road, Dunwich, Suffolk, IP17 3DJ, East of England
Join DASH Astro and the National Trust for a special opportunity to witness a spectacular solar eclipse from the stunning landscape of Dunwich Heath on Wednesday 12 August.
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, partially or completely blocking the Sun’s light. This fascinating celestial event offers a rare chance to experience the mechanics of our Solar System in action.
Viewing will begin at 5:45pm, with the eclipse reaching its maximum phase at approximately 7:15pm, when around 90% of the Sun will be obscured. Throughout the event, DASH Astro volunteers will be on hand to guide visitors through the eclipse, explain the science behind this remarkable phenomenon, and share fascinating insights into our nearest star.
Safe solar viewing equipment will be available, allowing visitors to observe the eclipse securely while learning more about astronomy and the ever-changing sky above us.
Refreshments will be available to purchase from the Coastguard Cottages Tea-room.
This free event is suitable for all ages, although booking is essential to help us manage visitor numbers and ensure everyone has the best possible experience.
Please note that the event is weather dependent. If conditions are unsuitable due to thick cloud cover or rain, the event will not take place.
Event organiser

DASH Astronomical Society is organising this event
Please contact DASH Astronomical Society directly for more details regarding this event or, if appropriate, contact the event venue.
Email: [email protected]
Website: DASH Astronomical Society
Facebook: DASH Astronomical Society
Event booking
Event darkness
The below chart shows if and when the skies will be at their darkest during this event. Moonlight is shown in light yellow and the Sun's twilight in light blue. Midnight on the date shown is shown as a white line with sunset to the left and sunrise the next morning to the right. A black background with stars shows the best times for stargazing.

Wed 12th Aug
Local light pollution
Dunwich Heath and Beach - National Trust is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to a dark site location based on the latest data from the VIIRS satellite. For more advanced light pollution data, view this location on DarkSkySites.
-
Urban
-
Suburban
-
Semi-rural
-
Rural
-
Dark site
The above demonstrates the estimated effect of light pollution - graphics created using Stellarium.
Light pollution map of Dunwich Heath and Beach - National Trust
Forthcoming events
Below is a list of events at Dunwich Heath and Beach - National Trust. View these events on our calendar, add them to your calendar or Google Calendar.
Stay and gaze nearby
Stay at one of these stargazing-friendly accommodation providers.