2. Norfolk Coast AONB, Norfolk
Those after naturally dark landscapes should consider visiting the Norfolk Coast and Norfolk Broads, which together form one of the UK’s darkest places. A site that’s perhaps best known to amateur astronomers is Kelling Heath Holiday Park near Holt in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which is the location of twice-yearly star parties. It’s also one of the area’s four ‘Milky Way-class’ Dark Sky Discovery Sites, meaning the Milky Way is visible in the night sky with the naked eye. The other three are Wiveton Downs Nature Reserve, RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve and nearby Barrow Common near Brancaster.
Local astronomy groups – the North Norfolk Astronomy Society and the Kings Lynn and District Astronomy Society – host stargazing events over the year. The third Norfolk Coast Dark Skies Festival is planned for 25 September to 10 October 2021. www.visitnorthnorfolk.com/see-and-do/ dark_skies.aspx