The North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Parks have both just joined the exclusive worldwide band of Dark Sky Reserves which reminded us just how fantastic an experience it is to enjoy the simple pleasures of walking and standing under a pristine night sky. 

While no-one is a stranger to seeing stars or a full moon in the sky when they’re scurrying home in the evening this can be a world away from experiencing those skies where low light pollution means that the night show truly is a spectacle to behold. 

Through the night walks we lead in the North York Moors during the Dark Skies Festival we’ve often seen people gasp in awe at a sky crammed with stars or a moon that is so big you could almost reach out and touch it.

It’s a sight that never ceases to amaze and I like to think of it as Nightfix, nature’s version of one of TV’s popular streaming services but far better than sitting on a sofa!

This is because there’s something ultimately uplifting and humbling about walking under a great night sky, perhaps because it helps us put into perspective just how small a part we all play in the universe which seems to make any angst and negative thoughts diminish. 

Not only that but walking at night means you can enjoy visiting locations that are honey pots during the day but which become special places once more after dark.

From a practical point of view walking at night accompanied by an experienced guide is an ideal opportunity to hone your navigation skills because without a clear view of the trail ahead and the surrounding landscape you really do have to know your way around a map and be able to use a compass expertly.

Join us in February for one of our Dark Sky Festival walks and night navigation sessions in the North York Moors, and, for the first time in the South Downs National Park at Harting Beacon.  

In true Large Outdoors style each evening involves a walk of around five miles and ends with a pint in a welcoming pub. 

https://www.largeoutdoors.com/dark-skies-stargazing