Every autumn, Exmoor reveals one of its greatest treasures. As night falls, the moorland skies come alive with thousands of stars, planets and even the glowing sweep of the Milky Way. To celebrate this rare gift, the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival invites visitors to slow down, look up and reconnect with the natural world in a way that feels both humbling and unforgettable.
Why Exmoor?
Exmoor was the first place in Europe to be named an International Dark Sky Reserve, which means its night skies are carefully protected from light pollution. On a clear evening, you can see countless stars with the naked eye, while telescopes open up an even deeper view of distant galaxies and clusters. The festival is a celebration of this wonder, offering experiences that combine science, nature and storytelling.
Festival Highlights
The Exmoor Dark Skies Festival features a wide variety of events, from outdoor adventures to family-friendly activities. Here are just some of the highlights you can expect this year:
- Yoga Under the Stars with Supper
- Stars and Sauna in the Doone Valley
- Ranger-Guided Sky and Wildlife Walks
- Observatory Stargazing at North Molton
- Barrow Beacons Twilight Walk
- Mobile Planetarium Encounters
- Night Hike in the Lorna Doone Valley
- Valley of Rocks Night Walk
- Dark Sky Discovery Trail from Exford
- Fireside Storytelling in the Lorna Doone Valley
- Wildlife Evenings with Exmoor Ponies
- Cliff Railway Light Show between Lynton and Lynmouth
Click here to view the full programme.
More Than Stargazing
By day, Exmoor’s rugged beauty sets the stage. You might follow winding coastal paths, roam across heather-covered hills or spot red deer moving quietly through the valleys. As evening draws in, the skies transform the landscape into a natural observatory, where every glance upwards feels like part of the festival.
A Festival for Everyone
Whether you are travelling solo, with friends or bringing the whole family, there is something here for you. The programme is designed to be accessible and welcoming, so everyone can experience the joy of stargazing. Some events are guided, others self-led, giving you the freedom to choose the pace that suits you best.
The Exmoor Dark Skies Festival is not just about astronomy; it is about wonder. It is about standing still beneath a glittering sky and feeling part of something greater. With its mix of activities, stories and adventures, this is a celebration that captures the true spirit of Exmoor and should not be missed.
