There’s something truly magical about gazing up at a star-filled sky in the stillness of night. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just looking for an unforgettable experience with loved ones, embarking on an Astro Adventure in one of our Campervans offers the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and cosmic wonder.
At Up Sticks Campers, we specialise in providing fully equipped Campervans so you can explore some of the UK’s most spectacular dark sky areas. All you need to do is pack your bags, grab your telescope (or your curiosity), and head off into the wilderness for an unforgettable trip under the stars.
Why Choose a Up Sticks for Stargazing?
A Campervan stargazing trip is more than just a holiday—it’s an experience that brings you closer to the magic of nature and the cosmos.
Here’s why our Campervans are the ideal choice for your next stargazing adventure:
Stay Warm and Comfortable: The night sky may be breathtaking, but chilly nights can sometimes dampen the fun. With onboard heaters in every van, you and your family can stay snug and warm, whether you're parked by a coastal cliff or deep in a forest clearing. Stargaze in total comfort without worrying about the temperature dropping.
Panoramic Views: Our Campervans are fitted with panoramic pop-top roofs, allowing you to gaze at the stars from the comfort of your bed. Imagine lying down with your loved ones, gazing up at the Milky Way or spotting constellations—all from the roof of your camper. It’s an immersive, unique way to experience the stars.
Off-Grid Capable: All of our vans are off-grid ready, meaning you can venture to the most remote, dark-sky areas without needing to rely on campsites or external power. Enjoy the freedom to explore secluded spots with confidence, knowing your van’s equipment will work seamlessly wherever you go.
Optional Upgrades: Want to take your stargazing experience to the next level? Add one of our optional upgrades, like a campfire kit (complete with marshmallows for toasting) or a driveway awning for extra outdoor space. These little extras can make your nights even cosier and more memorable.
Top Dark Sky Locations for Your Astro Adventure
The UK is home to a range of official dark sky sites, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts. Here are a couple of must-visit locations to inspire your next Campervan adventure:
1. Northumberland Coast: A Stargazer’s Paradise
One of the most enchanting dark-sky locations in the UK is the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, the largest in Europe, and the first of its kind in England. Nestled along the rugged Northumberland coast, this area offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities thanks to its low levels of light pollution. This makes it possible to see over 2,000 stars on a clear night, including the Milky Way and even distant galaxies with the naked eye. Visit their website for full details -https://www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/things-to-do/discover-dark-skies/
The Northumberland Coast itself is a beautiful and historic place to explore by day, with castles like Bamburgh Castle standing tall against the shoreline, and pristine beaches perfect for daytime walks and wildlife spotting. When night falls, however, the region transforms into one of the best places in the UK to stargaze.
Where to Set Up Camp
When you hire a campervan from Up Sticks Campers, you have the freedom to explore the Northumberland coast without having to rely on campsites. Our vans are fully equipped for off-grid adventures, allowing you to park in remote, quiet areas where the night sky is at its darkest. Some fantastic spots include:
Kielder Forest and Observatory: As part of the Northumberland Dark Sky Park, Kielder Forest offers a stunning combination of woodlands and celestial views. Visit the observatory for an educational stargazing session, or simply set up camp nearby for a quiet night under the stars.
Druridge Bay: For a more coastal experience, head to Druridge Bay, where you can enjoy long stretches of beach by day and an uninterrupted view of the cosmos by night. The serene atmosphere is perfect for a peaceful evening of stargazing by the sea.
Housesteads Roman Fort: A little further inland, close to Hadrian’s Wall, the dark skies around Housesteads are incredible. Here, history meets astronomy, where you can explore ancient ruins by day and see deep into the universe by night.
Exploring the Northumberland Coast is perfect for nature lovers and families looking to combine adventure with learning. During the day, explore the area's castles, beaches, and coastal walks; when night falls, settle down in your campervan, pop the roof, and enjoy the celestial display above.
2. The Scottish Highlands: Wild and Remote Stargazing
For those seeking a more rugged experience, the Scottish Highlands offer some of the darkest skies in the UK. The Highlands are famed for their dramatic landscapes and lack of light pollution, making it one of the best places to stargaze. From the Cairngorms National Park to the Isle of Skye, the skies here are breathtakingly clear on a crisp, cloudless night.
Key Spots to Explore:
Cairngorms National Park: This massive park offers a blend of adventure and stargazing, with plenty of remote areas to park your campervan and watch the stars.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs: A slightly more accessible option, but still perfect for stargazing. The lochs provide reflective water surfaces that enhance the beauty of the night sky, making this a top pick for photographers as well.
Plan Your Perfect Astro Adventure
Here’s how you can create a stargazing adventure to remember with Up Sticks Campers:
Choose Your Campervan: Visit our website, www.upstickscampers.co.uk, and browse through our range of campervans. Whether you’re planning a trip for two or taking the whole family, our vans are designed to provide comfort and convenience, especially for remote, off-grid stargazing.
Pick Your Dark Sky Destination: Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands or the tranquil beauty of the Northumberland coast, our campervans are up to the challenge. Plan your route and pick your favourite dark sky spot to enjoy a night under the stars.
Upgrade Your Experience: Make your trip extra special with one of our Package offers or upgrades. Whether you fancy an outdoor fire-pit for a marshmallow-roasting session or extra space with a driveway awning, we’ve got you covered.
Enjoy the Cosmos: With your campervan set up in a quiet, dark location, pop open the roof, sit back, and let the universe put on its show. Whether you’re identifying constellations with your kids or enjoying a quiet, romantic moment under the stars, your Astro Adventure will be one for the books.
Book Your Astro Adventure Today
If you’re ready to discover the magic of stargazing with Up Sticks Campers head over to our website, www.upstickscampers.co.uk, to explore our range of campervans and package deals. Whether you’re looking to escape for a weekend or planning a longer getaway, our campervans are the perfect way to explore the UK’s best dark sky destinations.
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