Kielder hosts one of the best public observatories in the UK. Its remote location in the heart of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park means the observatory benefits from exceptionally dark skies, free from light pollution.
The journey to the observatory offers wonderful views of Kielder Reservoir and Kielder Forest. Experienced astronomers and friendly staff ensure an enjoyable event whatever the weather.
The observatory runs events seven nights a week. On most nights—particularly at weekends—booking is required several weeks in advance. Tickets for weekend events around each new Moon always sell out quickly and are therefore priced at a premium.
The best time to visit Kielder Observatory is during the observing season (September to March), when the evening skies are darkest. Avoid periods around the full Moon, when moonlight reduces visibility, and also summer months, when midges are out in force! Use our dark sky calendar to check the best times to visit and book early.
Location events organiser
Kielder Observatory organises events at this location
Please contact Kielder Observatory directly with any enquiries relating to visiting this location
Email: [email protected]
Website: Kielder Observatory
Twitter: @kielder_obs
Facebook: Kielder Observatory
Weather forecast
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16/09/25
12° 1% -
16/09/25
10° 1% -
17/09/25
9° 7% -
17/09/25
10° 67%
Weather forecast for Kielder (1.3 miles away) updated 16/09/25 at 16:02.
Local light pollution
Kielder Observatory is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to a dark site 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.
Best time to visit
The below chart shows when the skies will be at their darkest at this location and therefore the best time to visit. 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. See our dark sky calendar for more details.
Tue 16th Sep
Wed 17th Sep
Thu 18th Sep
Fri 19th Sep
Sat 20th Sep
Sun 21st Sep
Mon 22nd Sep
Find more dates
If you are planning to visit this location check our dark sky calendar to find out when is best!
CalendarForthcoming events
Below is a list of events at Kielder Observatory. View these events on our calendar, add them to your calendar or Google Calendar.
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