Exmoor set for spectacular skies as Perseids and partial eclipse arrive

With minimal light pollution, wide open horizons and its status as Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, Exmoor is widely regarded as one of the best places in the country for stargazing. On clear nights, at viewpoints such as Wimbleball Lake and Dunkery Beacon, the Milky Way is visible with the naked eye, thousands of stars can be seen above the moor along with phenomena like the Perseids.

If that weren't spectacular enough, around 90–96% of the Sun will be covered across the UK and Ireland making it the most substantial eclipse visible from the British Isles since 1999 and the next total eclipse won’t be until 23 September 2090. The elevated westerly views from Exmoor, especially from high moorland peaks and coastal points, make this a prime spot within the UK for experiencing this rare astronomical event.

The Perseids are expected to be especially well timed for skywatchers. The annual meteor shower is now active until 24 August and is forecast to peak overnight on 12–13 August, with a new moon helping to create darker skies and better conditions for spotting meteors.

Dan James Enterprise and Communications Manager at Exmoor National Park Authority, said: “Exmoor is known not only for its fantastic landscapes, but also its dark skies - one of the National Park’s great natural treasures. This couldn’t be a more wonderful opportunity for people to experience them. Whether you are a seasoned stargazer or simply curious about the night sky, Exmoor’s open moorland, coastal viewpoints and dark sky discovery sites make it a very special place to watch the Perseids. Plus, you have this incredibly rare last chance to experience a deep solar eclipse that will never happen again in most people’s lifetime.”

For more stargazing advice, visit Exmoor National Park’s dark skies pages www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/stargazing or call into National Park Centres in Dulverton, Dunster and Lynmouth for a free Dark Skies pocket guide.For more stargazing advice, visit Exmoor National Park’s dark skies pages www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/stargazing or call into National Park Centres in Dulverton, Dunster and Lynmouth for a free Dark Skies pocket guide.

Dan continued: “Ordinary sunglasses are not safe for eclipse viewing nor is looking directly at the Sun without certified solar viewing glasses or an appropriate solar viewer.

Solar Eclipse Glasses and observing Kits are available from National Park Centres in Dunster, Dulverton and Lynmouth to help people safely enjoy the eclipse, or you can find lots of useful information online on how to best enjoy the eclipse, including how to make a pinhole camera from ukeclipse.com . You can also hire telescopes from our centres for group gatherings viewing the Perseids meteor shower with friends or family. Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, however, so no telescope is needed- just warm layers, patience and hopefully no clouds in our amazing dark skies!”

Top tips for enjoying the Perseids on Exmoor

• Choose a dark, open location away from streetlights and car headlights.
• Give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adjust to the dark.
• Look after midnight for the best chance of seeing meteors, weather permitting.
• Bring warm clothing, a blanket or reclining chair, and a red-light torch if needed.
• Avoid using bright phone screens, which can reduce night vision.
• Respect local communities, wildlife and livestock, and leave no trace.