There’s no doubt North Yorkshire is one of the greatest areas in the UK to stargaze, spot planets and even catch a meteor shower or two throughout the year.

In fact, in December 2020, the North York Moors was designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve by DarkSky (formerly International Dark-Sky Association) and there are only 21 of them in the world.

With this in mind, you might be wondering where some of the top places are to go stargazing in North Yorkshire.

To find out, we asked our readers on Facebook to share their favourite dark sky spots, where you have the best chance of seeing some astronomical magic happening above you.

Where are the best places to go stargazing in North Yorkshire?

Beetle Bank Farm & Wildlife Sanctuary - York

Among the many comments on the York Press Facebook post, one reader suggested: “The York Astronomical Society spend alot of time at Beetle Bank Farm & Wildlife Sanctuary. They have an observatory on site, and also hold events there. Definitely worth a look if that's what you're interested in.”

Go Stargazing also said: “Beetle Bank Farm occupies an ideal location on the outskirts of York, away from the worst effects of the city’s light pollution.

“The York Astronomical Society regularly uses the venue for meetings and outreach events.”

What's the light pollution like where you live?What's the light pollution like where you live? (Image: Picasa/Getty)

Dalby Forrest - Pickering

Someone also shared that their favourite spot to stargaze in the county was at Dalby Forest in the North York Moors National Park.

For those wanting to explore the night sky, Forestry England praised: “Dalby Forest is an outstanding Dark Skies site to see the stars, planets, nebulae and galaxies.

“Our astronomy partners, Astro Dog offer exciting, interactive, stargazing sessions in the enchanting setting of Dalby Forest.  

“Enjoy a guided tour of the night sky, learning about all the wonders of night sky. Use telescopes and binoculars to view the planets, Moon and stunning deep space objects such as star clusters, galaxies and nebulae. 

@northyorkmoorsnp An adventure awaits at Dalby Forest ✨🫶🌳 Dalby is the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature, with woodland walks & mountain biking trails for all! #northyorkmoors #nationalpark #exploring #adventure #dalbyforest #mountainbike #walking ♬ snowfall - Øneheart & reidenshi

“Embark on a journey to the edge of the universe inside an immersive 360° planetarium dome. Find out how to view the night sky from the comfort of your home using planetarium software.”

Simon’s Seat - Skipton

Another local revealed they think the best place to stargaze in North Yorkshire is Simon’s Seat in the Yorkshire Dales.

This remote location is made up of a “prominent outcrop of millstone grit, visible for many miles around and lying close to Bolton Abbey,” according to the Yorkshire Dales National Park website.

It adds: “The name is associated with a story concerning a baby found by a shepherd boy who was named Simon.

“Its summit is at 485m (1591 feet) and has a trig point surrounded by large gritstone boulders. The area is part of the Bolton Abbey Estate which belongs to the Duke of Devonshire.”

Brimham Rocks - Harrogate

Have you seen any shooting stars at the National Trust’s Brimham Rocks? One of our readers thinks it’s the place to be when it comes to stargazing.

But Go Stargazing also explains the small car park near Brimham Rocks offers a "spectacularly Southerly view across the heathland and wonderful views of starry skies at night".

Recommended reading:

The experts went on to say: “Brimham Rocks Viewpoint has been recommended as a great place to stargaze by the local authority, national park, community organisation or property owner.

“May require payment for access or parking.”

Additionally, readers recommended York’s Museum Gardens Observatory and Snilesworth Moor in the North York Moors when it comes to catching a glimpse of the stars.