North East stargazers looking for top spots to see some of the galaxy's one-of-a-kind constellations are in luck, as one location in the region has been named among the best in the world. 

Northumberland made the worldwide “eight most breathtaking destinations for stargazing” list – but why is it so special when it comes to spotting the Northern Lights, meteor showers and more?

Travel experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have researched the “most breathtaking” destinations for stargazing for those embracing “Astrotourism.”

The experts said: “Astrotourism has become a growing trend with tourists willing to travel around the globe to witness extraordinary astronomical events.

“The Milky Way is no longer visible to one-third of humanity because of light pollution, so many are choosing to escape to remote locations to experience space.  

“More than 7,000 stars and planets can be seen from Galloway Forest in Scotland, while Canada's Yukon Territory provides exceptional odds to catch the elusive northern lights.”

Why is Northumberland one of the most ‘breathtaking’ stargazing spots?

“Home to the Dark Sky Park, Northumberland has the largest expanse of protected dark skies in the UK, meaning the Milky Way is visible stretching across the skies,” commented StressFreeCarRental.com.

At Northumberland Dark Sky Park, Go Stargazing says “the region covers an area of 572 square miles and, as a result, 96% of the park benefits from low levels of light pollution.”

It adds: “Here you will find some of the darkest locations in England. On Moonless nights the Milky Way can be seen stretching across the skies.

“It’s because of this that the region attracts amateur astronomers from across the country.

“Stargazing locations include official dark sky discovery sites, observatories and plenty of stargazing-friendly places to stay.”

8 most ‘breathtaking’ stargazing locations around the world

If you fancy a trip abroad or a getaway elsewhere in the UK to stargaze, here are the eight most “breathtaking” destinations in the world, according to StressFreeCarRental.com.

  • Galloway Forest, Scotland
  • Churchill, Canada
  • Northumberland, England
  • Malin Head, Northern Ireland
  • Brecon Beacons, Wales
  • New South Wales, Australia
  • White Desert, Egypt
  • La Palma, Canary Islands

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John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “With interest in the stars, skies and space growing, many are switching out beaches and sun loungers for dark skies and meteor showers.

“We expect that Astrotourism will be a huge trend in 2024, and more people than ever will flock to remote spots to witness celestial events like the northern lights and a lunar eclipse.

“Spectacular locations to indulge in Astrotourism include New South Wales in Australia where tourists can sleep under the stars and the Brecon Beacons in Wales where visitors can catch a glimpse of sparkling galaxies.”