The South Downs is a beautiful area of southern England, known for its rolling hills, stunning landscapes, and breathtaking views. But did you know that it’s also a fantastic location for stargazing and astronomy? With its dark skies and lack of light pollution, the South Downs is a perfect spot for exploring the mysteries of the universe.
International Dark Sky Reserve
One of the best things about the South Downs is that it’s a designated Dark Sky Reserve, meaning that it’s protected from light pollution and offers some of the darkest skies in the UK. This makes it an ideal location for stargazing and observing the planets and stars.
One of the most exciting events that stargazers can witness in the South Downs is the Perseid meteor shower, which takes place every August. During this time, the skies are filled with shooting stars and it’s a truly magical experience! But even outside of this special event, the South Downs offers amazing stargazing opportunities all year round.
If that wasn’t enough, you can also book tickets for the annual South Downs Dark Skies Festival, held every year in February and features a range of events including stargazing parties and nocturnal wildlife walks that you won’t want to miss!
Stargazing in Chichester
Another place to enjoy star-lit dark skies is Chichester Harbour AONB, with its three Dark Sky Discovery Sites, all with stargazing-worthy levels of darkness and good accessibility.
The first one, located north of the John Q Davis footpath (PO20 7AY), is wheelchair accessible and offers stunning views of the foreshore and salt marsh. For those looking for more amenities, the Eames Farm site (Thorney Road, Thorney Island, PO10 8DE) provides car parking, kitchen and toilet facilities, as well as a meeting space that can be booked through Chichester Harbour Conservancy. Lastly, the Maybush Copse site (Cot Lane, Chidham, PO18 8SP) is a spacious community green space featuring an interpretation board and is situated close to the Barleycorn Tavern.
On the first Friday evening of each month (except August), visitors can attend one of the South Down Astronomical Society’s meetings at The South Downs Planetarium for a small fee. These observing events are subject to weather conditions and often feature guest speakers. Non-members are welcome to attend.
Just a stone’s throw away, RSPB Pagham Harbour Local Nature Reserve organises astronomy nights, but you can visit anytime as the reserve is accessible throughout the day and night. If the weather is clear and tranquil, you may even spot the stars twinkling in the lagoon waters below. Make sure to bring your binoculars along as birdwatching is also highly recommended at this site!
Stargazing – Our Top Tips
If you’re planning a stargazing trip in the South Downs, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
Firstly, it’s important to check the phase of the moon before you go, as the best time to stargaze is just before a full moon. You can easily do this by searching online or using a lunar calendar app.
Secondly, if you want to locate specific constellations or stars, using a compass can be helpful. While your smartphone may have a compass, using it can impact your ability to fully appreciate the stars. SkyView Lite is a great app for identifying celestial bodies and is available on both Apple and Android devices.
Lastly, remember to dress warmly, even in the warmer months, as it can quickly become chilly underneath a clear sky, and we’d recommend bringing a mat to lie on and a hot drink. Combining these things will certainly enhance your stargazing experience!
Planning a Trip to the South Downs?
If you’re planning a trip to the South Downs and want to experience the magic of stargazing, then why not stay at our peaceful holiday park, Medmerry? Situated just a short drive from some of the best stargazing spots in the area, Medmerry offers comfortable holiday chalets, some including hot tubs, as well as fantastic facilities for stargazers and holidaymakers alike, and you’ll have fantastic views of the night sky with our seaside location.
You’ll also find several observatories and astronomy clubs in the area, offering guided tours, workshops and events for stargazers of all levels, which can be a fantastic way to learn more about astronomy and the wonders of the universe. The earlier-mentioned South Downs Planetarium is a fantastic example of this and is just a short drive from our holiday park!
With its stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and easy access to some of the best stargazing locations in the South Downs, Medmerry is the perfect base for your astronomy adventures. So why not book your stay today and discover the magic of the universe in this beautiful corner of England?
