Heather Woodfine from Kielder Observatory explains how groups can experience some of Europe’s darkest skies through bespoke astronomy events, telescope observations and educational talks in the heart of Northumberland’s Kielder Forest.
What is the best thing about working at the Kielder Observatory?
We have been operating since 2008, but still regularly get visitors who have never seen skies as dark as Kielder and the reactions of guests blown away by sights of the Milky Way, Jupiter through a telescope, or discussions on the size of the universe is very rewarding.
What are the highlights of a group visit?
Every part of visiting the observatory is an adventure, from the access road that winds up through the forest to the top of Black Fell, to the views down Kielder valley during the day or views of the pristine dark skies at night.
For groups we can run bespoke events, delivering engaging content appropriate for your group and presentations on topics of your choice, our capacity is up to 36 guests.
How do you help groups with the booking process?
We are open most evenings through the year, so we can help you pick a time and date that works for you - we are regularly at full capacity so booking far in advance is recommended especially weekends.
Our high season is September to April and it’s a great activity for the colder months, although summer events offer milder weather, beautiful sunsets and sights like elusive noctilucent clouds.
What would you say to tempt groups into a visit?
We serve all guests a hot chocolate on our three-hour events, which are always a big hit, and we’re now offering a tot of locally made cream liqueur or whisky as an add-on to keep everyone warm and make the experience extra luxurious!
What types of events take place?
Events at Kielder Observatory are two or three hours long and we’ll include a full tour of the facility and equipment, explaining to your guests how telescopes work and the importance of dark sky preservation. Our astronomers will give a presentation on a topic of your choice with Q&A and lots of advice on stargazing at home.
If the skies are clear we will observe through our large telescopes and with the naked eye outside – if you book a daytime event we can observe sunspots on the sun. When we get clouds we have plenty content and indoor activities prepared which get great feedback.
Are there any other nearby attractions you would recommend groups combine with a visit to Kielder Observatory?
Northumberland has Roman ruins, huge castles and beautiful beaches and the Kielder valley is wonderfully remote which means lots of wildlife and stunning dark skies. I recommend bike hire to cycle around Kielder Reservoir, Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre, or watching for ospreys (April-September).
For more information about Kielder Observatory, visit kielderobservatory.org.
