News
Under the stars at High Force
16 October 2026
Under the stars at High Force: something truly special
16 October 2026
Blog by Andrew Lindsey, General Manager, High Force Hotel & Waterfall, Raby Estates
I’ve been fortunate enough to manage High Force Hotel and Waterfall since 2018, and during those eight years, one of our greatest achievements has been developing our stargazing experiences into something truly special.
As an accredited Dark Sky Friendly business we’re passionate about protecting the extraordinary night skies above Upper Teesdale. From carefully managing external lighting to reducing unnecessary light pollution, we recognise our responsibility to preserve this remarkable environment for future generations.
Stargazing has become our single biggest market segment and an important part of our commercial success. But for me, its real magic lies in the reaction of our guests.
There’s something extraordinary about standing at the foot of High Force Waterfall on a clear night, looking upwards as your eyes adjust to the darkness and the Milky Way gradually reveals itself. Visitors from towns and cities are often completely overwhelmed by what they see. Some even question whether our photographs are real! I can assure them they are. The night skies here really can be that spectacular.
When we first introduced stargazing in 2018, the experience was relatively simple. Today, we’ve developed something quite different. Our Stargazing Suppers combine wonderful hospitality, a delicious three-course dinner, engaging presentations from our professional astronomers and a guided journey through the darkness to the magnificent waterfall.
We’re not simply offering an opportunity to look at stars. We want to create an unforgettable experience, combining discovery, exceptional hospitality and the beauty of the North Pennines.
Of course, British weather doesn’t always cooperate! But even when clouds obscure the stars, there’s another magical moment awaiting our guests. Watching High Force Waterfall suddenly illuminated against the darkness, with water thundering over the ancient Whin Sill, never fails to produce gasps of amazement.
I’ve learned an enormous amount about astronomy myself over the years, thanks to our wonderfully knowledgeable and enthusiastic astronomers. Together with our dedicated welcome hosts, they bring these evenings to life.
Perhaps my favourite part is arriving at work on a Monday morning and reading the wonderful feedback from guests who’ve attended over the weekend. Knowing we’ve created lasting memories, often inspiring people to return, makes me incredibly proud.
Our ambition is to become the UK’s premier stargazing destination. We’ve come a remarkable distance already, and I’m enormously grateful to our team and to this beautiful landscape we’re privileged to share.
