When it comes to stargazing you might not think the UK has the best spots to offer.
But a scenic corner in southern England has been awarded the prestigious International Dark-Sky Reserve title.
The accolade was presented after residents in the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB) - which covers Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset - collectively turned off their lights at night to see the view.
The area is just one of 14 International Dark-Sky Reserves around the world, a factor which makes the award extra impressive.
It’s the first entire AONB in the UK to be awarded the title by the International Dark-Sky Association - a US-based body that celebrates "exceptionally starry skies" and aims to stop light pollution.
It has, however, taken more than ten years for the area to meet the strict stargazing criteria.
Only areas where the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye can be named dark sky reserves.
Adam Dalton, an International Dark-Sky Places Program Manager at the association, said, “Cranborne Chase has the largest central area of darkness of any International Dark-Sky Reserve in the UK.
"It is a huge area of land at almost 1000 sq kms, and less than two hours from London and Bristol.”
Linda Nunn, director of Cranborne Chase AONB, added, "We think of our beautiful landscapes as being on the ground, but 50% of our landscape is above our heads, in the sky.
“The quality of our night sky is so important and this isn’t just for the benefit of astronomers.
‘There are huge benefits for nocturnal wildlife, our own human health and wellbeing, for education, tourism and for energy saving. We’re thrilled to be playing our part.”
Other areas in theUKto feature in the dark sky reserves list include National Park Exmoor, Brecon Beacons National Park, Moore’s Reserve and Snowdonia National Park.
Further afield, Rhon and Westhavelland in Germany also have the stargazing title, alongside Pic du Midi in France and Mont-Megantic in Canada.
-
Stunning brunette hair ideas to inspire you, from warm caramel to deep espressoFrom Penelope Cruz to Zoe Saldana, get inspired by these chic celebrity brunettes...
-
Is The Listeners based on a true story? The real inspiration behind the BBC seriesThe Listeners on BBC One has a very intriguing plot - if you're wondering whether it has basis in a true story, there's actually a very unsettling backstory to the tale.
-
The world's most photogenic Art Deco buildingsThese stunning structures impress with curved facades, pastel shades and retro neon signage
-
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Don't miss out on these delicious must-try foods and drinksFrom spicy kothu and Jaffna-inspired crab curry to breakfast hoppers and choon paan bread, these’s no shortage of foodie delights on this tropical island
-
Discover a different side of London with these lesser-known, picturesque placesFrom small museums to vibrant markets and fairytale gardens, add these stunning locations to your London bucket list
-
32 underrated holiday destinations to add to your travel bucket listSkip the crowds and visit these overlooked destinations instead.
-
The 32 best places to visit if you want to learn about historyFrom historical Indian landmarks to ancient European cities, these destinations are steeped in history
-
Inspiring women who shaped the travel landscape foreverThese trailblazing adventurers paved the way for modern travellers
-
33 unique experiences in Italy for a bucket list tripFrom truffle hunting to open-air opera and olive oil tasting in stunning Tuscany
-
Mesmerising places in India to add to your bucket listHand-carved temples, addictive cities, serene ashrams, and magical wildlife-spotting opportunities await in India
