Stargazing experiences are fast becoming a new trend. For those who look up, stargazing can represent some of the world’s greatest stories – we’ve heard the legends of those using the constellation as a guiding tool, and there's a whole field devoted to telling people about their personality based upon the position of the stars. The night sky can also offer educational activities, making a stargazing retreat a magical experience for families with children! For couples, it may be the perfect romantic getaway – gazing up at the stars, just you and your partner, under the night sky. If you don’t want to get away with the kids, or your other half is not one for stargazing, it can also make a unique and fun trip to take with friends.
Situated around the UK, there are plenty of retreats dedicated to providing the best stargazing experiences. We’ve curated the best from Host Unusual, the go-to for truly unique accommodation around the world.
Beacon Hill Hideaway
At Beacon Hill Farm, slotted between the Cheviot Hills and the Northumberland heritage coast, you’ll spot the site of three shepherds huts that redefine what it means to go on a glamping and stargazing retreat. Sat atop an ancient beacon, you won't know where to look for scenic views. The farms 360-acre estate is steeped in authentic Iron Age history and includes a 40-acre beech wood, a rippling lake and plenty of lush foliage all around. The surroundings complement the stars, as it is located on the border of Dark Sky Park, which is heralded as the best place in England to enjoy a stargazing experience.
It is perfect for a wide variety of parties – a romantic trip for two, a family holiday or a glamping trip with friends. It features a wood-burning stove, a fire pit, and a barbeque outside for al-fresco dining under a starry canvas. It also features a luxury five-foot bed, perfectly positioned for you to enjoy the beechwood views as you wake.
The Northumberland coastline is renowned for some of the most beautiful and unspoilt beaches in the UK, some of which have been voted among the top 50 in the UK by the National Trust – including Embleton which was considered the very best! The perfect backdrop for your first stargazing experience.
You can book The Beacon Hill Hideaway here.
The Mews
Next is The Mews, a romantic stargazing experience in a beautiful barn conversation for two. The Mews is a fantastic option for those looking to get away and relax with their partner. In South Devon, it is also an ideal spot for exploring, cycling, watersports activities and more, but the nearby Dartmoor provides the best opportunities to get a look into the large, open sky.
An enchanting experience, it was once home to a domesticated goshawk, and has an array of gorgeously green views, rolling hills and lush surroundings. You can also experience the stars in your private garden, complete with a hot tub, allowing you to gaze out into the evening night from the comfort of your tub, fully engulfed by nature all around.
You can book The Mews here.
Roshven Sea House
Located in the Scottish Highlands, Roshven Sea House is one of the most magical and unspoilt locations in the region. Perfectly situated for spectacular views, it is secluded just above the beach, with gorgeously-high ceilings and an open, breathable sense of space. A unique feature is the floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to feast your eyes on the amazing outside landscape at all hours of the day; perhaps while eating breakfast at the dining table, or curled up on the sofa on a stormy evening. If you’d rather see it from the outside, you have a private patio, perfect for al fresco treats. You also have a hot tub and firepit – great for marshmallow toasting under the stars.
Just outside, you’ve got Rois-Bheinn, the area's highest hill, meaning you can be even closer to the sky during your stargazing experience. From the summit, the view is blindingly superb.
For those looking to add a bit of luxury to their stargazing experience, this retreat is the one for you.
You can book The Roshven Sea House here.
The Beekeeper’s Bothy
Along the Aberdeenshire coast, lies The Beekeeper’s Bothy. A quirky, bespoke larch clad building is perfectly positioned for views of wild and unspoilt nature. In a prime viewing spot for the Ythan Estuary (a site designated for scientific interest in diverse plants and wildlife). Similarly, to The Roshven Seahouse, it also features a floor-to-ceiling window, affording you a gaze of the night sky, while you snuggle up cosily inside.
You'll find this dreamy space furnished with a downy superking mattress, and a fantastic view that means you can watch the twinkling stars before drifting off, then wake to an awe-inspiring sunrise. You can also get closer by taking a trip to the majestic cliff top fortress of Dunnottar Castle.
At the Beekeeper’s Bothy, you just can’t resist pouring a glass of wine, and watching that captivating sunset, night after night.
You can book The Beekeeper’s Bothy here.
The Owl Lodge
On the borders of Somerset, Devon and Dorset, lies The Owl Lodge – an adult-only, organic farm, with a selection of south-facing escapes that sit opposite the idyllic countryside. It features a woodland sauna, and an array of wildlife to gaze at. You have a private garden, a BBQ pit, and a wood-fired hot tub, allowing you to totally relax before the stars come out.
Gently rise to a joyous chorus of birdsong, as you plan your day over morning coffee. If you're lucky, you may also be able to spot grazing deer, or a buzzard swooping overhead. If you're not keen to leave the site - and why would you be? - you can book an indulgent session in the infra-red woodland sauna, which boasts wondrous views of the abundant bird life. To feel perfectly refreshed, simply finish off your session with an invigorating outdoor shower!
You can book The Owl Lodge here.
We hope you have enjoyed reading our top picks for stargazing retreats on offer this summer. Trips like these allow you to see new things and create unforgettable memories! But when you’re out at night-time, stargazing in the wilderness, you need to be mindful of what else might be around. Consider packing a set of We Drifters Anti-Insect Sleepwear, made from bamboo and infused with anti-insect treatment – perfect for peace of mind while you sleep among the stars. Inspired by outdoor adventures, our clothing will keep you bug-free on any stargazing trip!
We Drifters are a UK start-up, specialising in innovative bamboo anti-insect clothing. We are a community of travel and adventure lovers. Find out more about our story here and join our Drifters Facebook group to get involved!
