Join us for an exciting dark skies event in the Langdon Beck Hotel, Upper Teesdale, Co. Durham on Thursday 22 October, 7pm to 10pm. The evening will be led by Andy Gray – local astronomer and science educator.

The evening will start with a talk from Andy Gray on why space travel is hard. Humanity has come a long way in the past 100 years, breaking free from gravity and reaching Earth’s orbit and the Moon. Andy will explore the challenges of exploring beyond Earth and how likely it is that humans will be able to venture across the Milky Way and continue exploring the Universe.

After Andy’s talk (and if the sky is clear) we will do some informal stargazing at a dark site (field) a short walk from the village hall. Be prepared for a potentially muddy walk and rocky/uneven ground. Gates but no stiles. If live stargazing is not possible there will be an opportunity to ask more questions, together with a demonstration of the free Stellarium planetarium app.

This event is aimed at amateur astronomers and people with an interest in the night sky.

Bring warm/waterproof clothes/a torch (red light if you have one) and wear suitable shoes for uneven/muddy ground. Bring binoculars if you have a pair. Note that this event will go ahead even if the sky conditions are cloudy. Refreshments will be available from the hotel bar.

No dogs please – they’re a trip hazard in the dark.

Adults 18+: £15
Child (under 18): £10
Concessions (65+): £10
Family (4 people in total – 2 adults, 3 concessions or 2 adults, 2 concessions): £40

Please book using the link to Ticketsource:

This event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 16 October to 1 November 2026 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org. #NorthPennStarFest26 #NPennDarkSkies

Image: The North American Nebula © Andy Gray