Stargazing for beginners at the North Pennines Observatory
Friday 24th October 2025 from 20:00pm to 22:00pm
North Pennines Observatory
The Old School House, Allenheads, Northumberland, NE47 9HR
Ever wanted to explore the night sky but didn’t know where to start? Fortunately the team at Allenheads Observatory will guide you step-by-step under one of the country’s darkest skies – no prior knowledge needed.
At Allenheads Observatory at ACA, you will join expert astronomers for two hours of practical guidance. First, learn to navigate constellations and spot planets. Then, gain confidence using telescopes and binoculars.
In addition, you will handle 4.6 billion-year-old meteorites, try interactive digital sky tours, and enjoy hot drinks and snacks in our heated indoor space. By the end of the evening, you will have the skills to explore the night sky on your own.
This event takes place as part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival 2025.
Event organiser
North Pennines Observatory is organising this event
Please contact North Pennines Observatory directly for more details regarding this event or, if appropriate, contact the event venue.
Email: [email protected]
Website: North Pennines Observatory
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.
Fri 24th Oct
Local light pollution
North Pennines Observatory is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to a rural location based on the latest data from the VIIRS satellite.
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Urban
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Suburban
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Semi-rural
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Rural
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Dark site
The above demonstrates the estimated effect of light pollution - graphics created using Stellarium.
Forthcoming events
Below is a list of events at North Pennines Observatory. 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.