Discover Exmoor's Dark Skies
With cloudless nights and minimal light pollution, Exmoor is home to some of the best dark skies in the UK. While visiting in our cosy holiday cottage, this International Dark Sky Reserve allows you to witness astronomical sights, thousands of stars and the Milky Way galaxy, with just the naked eye!
Exmoor Dark
Skies Festival
When staying in our holiday cottage throughout the months of October and November, the annual Exmoor Dark Skies festival encourages families, astronomers and anyone inspired by the outdoors, to join in.
Events are scattered across the National Park, and are run by the Exmoor National Park Authority, alongside other organisations and businesses.
Astronomy Advice
When's the best time for star gazing on Exmoor? It's better to visit on a moonless and clear night, so you'll see more stars in the sky. However, you can find an in-depth pocket guide at one of the National Park Centres, for a better understanding of how to get the most out of your trip to our holiday cottage and Exmoor.
You may also find valuable information on the moon phases, weather forecasts, constellations and astronomical events on the Met Office, or the official Exmoor National Park website.
Telescope Hire
Telescopes are available for hire from any of the three Exmoor National Park Centres, which you can then take out onto Exmoor yourself.
Indulge in breathtaking views after dark, while visiting our holiday cottage, or visit the National Park centres to purchase their range of books, helpful materials and advice, on how to best use your telescope.
The telescopes require a £100 deposit, in advance of your visit, which will be refunded to you. The cost of hire for one night, is £25.00, and £10.00 for every additional night after this.
Light Pollution
With one of the darkest skies in the country, Exmoor's lighting is well-designed, efficient, and does not disturb the natural dark skies.
Poorly designed artificial lighting wastes both money and energy, impacting the views, wildlife and enjoyment that the scenery provides.
So hire a telescope, or wander down to Exmoor National Park, to see one of the darkest skies the UK has to offer.
Dark Skies
Discovery Trail
Embark on an adventure through the tranquillity of Exmoor's countryside, and experience the stars after dark, on this short and level walk through the park.
Find maps and refreshments from the National Park Centres, and trek across the unique trail, approximately 3.2km in length.
You may see cattle between the months of May and September, but it's important not to approach or disturb the animals, and to park considerately. Parking may be limited, so it should be noted not to restrict access to the road or gates when you arrive.
Want more places to go?
North Devon has a wide variety of different towns and activities to indulge in during your stay at Widehay Barn. Click below to see more.