The small Northumberland village of Stonehaugh has been named the third best stargazing destination in the UK by experts at Ski Vertigo. The village, home to just 240 people, is located within the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and boasts a free-to-access Dark Sky Discovery Site with a stargazing pavilion in Kielder Forest.
Ranking and Criteria
Stonehaugh finished behind only the Yorkshire Dales and Bodmin Moor in Cornwall. Ski Vertigo based its ranking on protected dark-sky status, public viewing access, and nearby accommodation. The experts noted: 'Stonehaugh also combines dark conditions with practical public access. Its pavilion is free to use, nearby parking is available at the picnic site and the location sits within one of Europe's largest protected dark-sky areas.'
Location and Accessibility
Lying around five miles west of Wark, Stonehaugh is no stranger to national acclaim. Its campsite was previously listed as one of the best within a national park by The Guardian. The village is in the heart of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, which is one of Europe's largest protected dark-sky areas.
Timing with Perseid Meteor Shower
The ranking coincides with the 2026 Perseid meteor shower, active from July 17 to August 24 and peaking overnight on August 12-13. The new Moon during the peak should create particularly dark viewing conditions, making Stonehaugh an ideal spot for meteor watching.
