North Pennines National Landscape

Two-day photogrammetry and drone flying workshop
2025-09-17 10:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Nenthead Mines
Get involved in the free two day photogrammetry and drone flying workshop at Nenthead Mines, Alston, on 16 and 17 September, 10am to 4pm.
Photogrammetry is the method of creating a virtual 3D model from a selection of overlapping photographs. The technique is increasingly used by conservators and archaeologists to record, investigate and promote heritage.
Learn how to fly a small drone safely and legally. Discover how to use the drone to explore and create three-dimensional digital models of old sites and buildings. You can see similar models created here.
The workshop is relaxed and fun, taking place in an interesting historic industrial location, and gives you a chance to explore the local traditional architecture of the North Pennines. You will also have the opportunity to venture underground on a free mine tour, to learn about the site and why it’s so important to the area.
All equipment and training are provided by Elder Archaeology and the North Pennines National Landscape team. You don’t need any previous experience to join. The workshop is suitable for ages 14 and over – all children must be accompanies by an adult.
This workshop is being run as part of Heritage Open Days and the National Landscape’s Land of Lead and Silver project.
Sign up for both days using the volunteer platform Better Impact

Volunteer day at Bowlees tree nursery
2025-09-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Bowlees Visitor Centre, Newbiggin, DL12 0XF
Volunteer at Bowlees Wildflower and Tree Nursery on the last Wednesday of each month from 1pm to 4pm.
You can help with our nature recovery work by seed collecting and sowing, potting on, and watering plants. For more information email molly@northpennines.org.uk.
Sign up on the volunteer platform Better Impact
Delivered as part of the Tees-Swale: naturally connected programme. Tees-Swale is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and led by the North Pennines National Landscape team in collaboration with the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Historic environment on-site working day
2025-09-30 10:00 - 16:00
Come along and get involved in recording historic structures on working days at sites around the North Pennines. This is a chance to use your skills related to recording historic features, including photogrammetry and condition assessment. You’ll have the chance to work with other volunteers and trained staff, while helping us to safeguard these important sites.
You will need to bring walking boots and clothing appropriate for spending the day outdoors in a variety of weathers. You will also need a packed lunch, snacks and a drink. You are welcome to bring equipment with you, but we will also have some equipment available for you to use.
Dates:
Tuesday 30 September – Coldberry Mine, new Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham
Tuesday 21 October – Allen Mill, near Allendale, Northumberland
Tuesday 25 November – tbc Dukesfield Smelt Mill, Northumberland
Tuesday 9 December – Nenthead Mines, Cumbria
Please book using the Better Impact volunteer system

Wildflower seed sowing volunteer opportunity
2025-10-01 10:00 - 15:30 | Bowlees Visitor Centre, Newbiggin, DL12 0XF
Join us for a session of sorting and sowing wildflower seeds, on 1 October at Mickleton Village Hall, 10am to 3.30pm. We will be sowing seeds from important species such as wood crane’s-bill that have been collected from existing populations in Teesdale.
Once grown these plants will be used to enhance upland hay meadows in Teesdale.
Please sign up using the volunteer platform Better Impact.
Delivered as part of the Tees-Swale: naturally connected programme. Tees-Swale is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and led by the North Pennines National Landscape in collaboration with the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Historic environment indoor working day
2025-10-03 10:00 - 16:00
These indoor working days follow each on-site working day, giving the opportunity to get involved with processing photogrammetry images into models, archiving condition assessment data, and undertaking historic research. You’ll have the chance to work with other volunteers and trained staff, while helping us to safeguard these important sites.
Please bring your lunch. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day. If you want to bring equipment with you, you are welcome to, but we will also have some equipment available for you to use.
You do not need to have attended the associated site day to join us for these indoor work sessions.
Dates – all at Stanhope from 10am to 4pm:
Wednesday 30 April
Wednesday 16 May
Wednesday 13 June
Wednesday 1 August
Wednesday 12 September
Wednesday 3 October
Wednesday 24 October
Wednesday 28 November
Wednesday 12 December
Please book using the Better Impact volunteer system

Volunteer opportunities - plug planting
2025-10-09 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-10-17 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-10-22 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-10-25 10:00 - 15:30 | Teesdale
This autumn we are looking for volunteers to help with plug planting on farms across Teesdale.
Plug planting helps to increase biodiversity, creates habitats for pollinators and conserves threatened wildflower species in hay meadows.
We will be plug planting at several locations across Teesdale throughout the autumn.
Plug planting dates:

23 September, 10:00 – 15:30
9 October, 10:00 – 15:30
17 October, 10:00 – 15:30
22 October, 10:00 – 15:30
29 October, 10:00 – 13:00 (followed by Bowlees Nursery drop in)
6 November, 10:00 – 15:30
27 November, 10:00 – 15:30
3 December, 10:00-15:30

All training and equipment will be provided
A general level of fitness is required, please wear outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes. The exact locations will be given closer to the dates.
Please sign up using the volunteer platform Better Impact.

Pennine Way maintenance volunteer opportunity
2025-10-14 09:45 - 15:00 | Cow Green Reservoir
Volunteer opportunity to help keep the Pennine Way maintained. Help to repair of sections of boardwalk on 14 October, 9.45am to 3pm, near Cauldron Snout.
Due to the physical nature of the work, a reasonable level of fitness will be required and is suitable for 18+.
We will be undertaking repairs on a boardwalk alongside the Tees downstream from Cauldron Snout.
The most reasonable access to the boardwalk is by transporting the materials down the footpath at the side of Cauldron Snout. The walk in with equipment and materials is around 1km but will be made more difficult by the combination of terrain and long lengths of timber. Suitable footwear for the terrain is therefore advised; gloves will be provided if desired.
The session may take us past lunchtime, so please bring a packed lunch/drinks and bring warm waterproof clothing. All PPE (personal protective equipment) will be provided, including safety glasses, gloves and steel toe cap boots if you need to borrow some. Waterproofs and an extra layer are recommended as Cow Green has its own weather system, and doesn’t stick to the forecast.
Please sign up using the volunteer site Better Impact

Farming and nature talk: regenerating the uplands
2025-10-15 19:30 - 21:00 | Moorcock Inn, DL12 0AU
This winter we are holding a series of evening talks with the theme of examining the links between farming and nature. The talks, held at The Moorcock Inn in Eggleston, 7.30pm to 9pm, are open to farmers and landowners as well as members of the public. Each evening there will be an invited speaker with the opportunity of discussion afterwards. The first talk is Wednesday 15 October.
At the first talk, Dan Herdman will give us an overview of his experiences of nature-friendly farming, and how he has altered his farming practices over the last seven years towards a more ‘regenerative system’. Dan is a farmer from Acton Farm in Blanchland within the North Pennines National Landscape.
The first talk of the season will be slightly shorter as we will be holding the High Nature Value (HNV) awards ceremony after Dan’s talk. Professor Sir John Lawton will be presenting the winners of the High Nature Value (HNV) farming awards.
Delivered as part of the Tees-Swale: naturally connected programme. Tees-Swale is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and led by the North Pennines National Landscape in collaboration with the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Everyone welcome, booking required. If you are a Tees-Swale farmer you can come to this talk for free, please email Molly@northpennines.org.uk to get the code.

Delivered as part of the Tees-Swale: Naturally Connected programme. Tees-Swale is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and led by the North Pennines National Landscape team in collaboration with the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Home educators' session - Bowlees
2025-10-20 10:30 - 12:30 | Bowlees Visitor Centre, Newbiggin, DL12 0XF
This is a family workshop for home educators, 20 October, 10.30am to 12.30pm at Bowlees Visitor Centre. The theme is autumn colours.
We will be investigating the trees around Bowlees and how they change in the autumn, experimenting with natural colourings and using them to create art.
After the workshop feel free to stay around and continue exploring. Please wear sturdy footwear, and clothing suitable for the weather.
Suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years. All children need to be accompanied by an adult. (Younger siblings are welcome – they do not need a ticket but please let us know they are coming by emailing( naomi@northpennines.org.uk).
Please book using the Ticketsource link

Historic environment on-site working day
2025-10-21 10:00 - 16:00
Come along and get involved in recording historic structures on working days at sites around the North Pennines. This is a chance to use your skills related to recording historic features, including photogrammetry and condition assessment. You’ll have the chance to work with other volunteers and trained staff, while helping us to safeguard these important sites.
You will need to bring walking boots and clothing appropriate for spending the day outdoors in a variety of weathers. You will also need a packed lunch, snacks and a drink. You are welcome to bring equipment with you, but we will also have some equipment available for you to use.
Dates:
Tuesday 21 October – Allen Mill, near Allendale, Northumberland
Tuesday 25 November – Dukesfield Smelt Mill, Northumberland tbc
Tuesday 9 December – Nenthead Mines, Cumbria
Please book using the Better Impact volunteer system

Stargazing on the Weardale Railway
2025-10-22 17:30 - 20:30 | Weardale Railway
**SOLD OUT**
Enjoy Weardale’s dark skies on Wednesday 22 October, 5.30pm to 8.30pm. The experience starts at Stanhope Station with exciting space themed activities for all the family, this will be followed by a train ride, leaving at 6pm. At a unique location you will disembark and enjoy stargazing using telescopes and while listening to experts from the Bishop Auckland Astronomical Society.
Booking

Pre-booking is essential via: Stargazing Train | Weardale Railway
Adults (16+): £30
Children (under 15): £15

Tickets include light refreshments and a space themed gift for the children. Please bring a folding chair(s). The experience means you will be climbing on and off the train so suitable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are required.
In the event of cloudy skies the event will still go ahead however the telescope experience will be replaced with an alternative activity.
More information at https://www.weardale-railway.org.uk or email weardalerailway@aucklandproject.org
This Weardale Railway event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org
#NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

The Orionid meteor shower
2025-10-22 20:00 | Grassholme Observatory, DL12 0PW
Halley’s Comet is the most famous interloper of them all and is the parent comet of the Orionid meteor shower.
A good display is expected from this shower as we head into the night on 22 October, 8pm to midnight at Grassholme Observatory. Under our wonderful dark skies, we can expect to see as many as 20 meteors per hour as the tiny dust grains left behind by Halley’s comet interact with our atmosphere as a flash of light!
As well as the dazzling show overhead the team at Grassholme Observatory will utilise their array of telescopes to view the universe in stunning resolution.
To book and for full terms and conditions please visit: https://www.grassholmeobservatory.com/book/
• Adult: £30 (16+)
• Concession: £25 (65+, under 16, Blue Badge holder)
Bring warm clothes – it can get chilly when you are outside. The observatory, classroom and toilets are accessible. This is a pet free event.
This Grassholme Observatory (www.grassholmeobservatory.com) event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org
#NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Image © Grassholme Observatory

Historic environment indoor working day
2025-10-24 10:00 - 16:00
These indoor working days follow each on-site working day, giving the opportunity to get involved with processing photogrammetry images into models, archiving condition assessment data, and undertaking historic research. You’ll have the chance to work with other volunteers and trained staff, while helping us to safeguard these important sites.
Please bring your lunch. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day. If you want to bring equipment with you, you are welcome to, but we will also have some equipment available for you to use.
You do not need to have attended the associated site day to join us for these indoor work sessions.
Dates – all at Stanhope from 10am to 4pm:
Friday 24 October
Friday 28 November
Friday 12 December
Please book using the Better Impact volunteer system

The scheduling of monuments and developing the ‘Missing Pieces’ project volunteer day
2025-10-24 10:00 - 16:00 | North Pennines National Landscape office, 1 Martin Street, Stanhope,, DL132UY
Join us on Friday 24th October, 10am to 4pm, for a special volunteer day with Historic England. Guest speaker, Eric Branse-Instone, Listing Advisor from Historic England will share his expertise on scheduling industrial and lead mining sites, give an update on the Missing Pieces Project, and answer your questions.
We’re broadening our Land of Lead and Silver Project indoor working days — developing new ways to record and research our sites, from 3D digital modelling and photography to contextual and historical work.
Whether you have detailed knowledge or are completely new to these skills, this event is for you. Eric will spend the full day with us, exploring your work and sharing insights into national heritage practice. Come learn, connect, and get inspired.
This workshop is being run as part of Heritage Open Days and the National Landscape’s Land of Lead and Silver project.
Please sign up using the volunteer site Better Impact

Stargazing suppers at High Force
2025-10-24 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-10-25 18:00 - 20:30 | High Force Hotel, The High Force Hotel, Alston Rd, Forest-in-Teesdale, DL12 0XH
**SOLD OUT**
A magical evening of stargazing and a three course meal.
Discover the magnificence of the night sky with an exciting stargazing experience at the breathtaking High Force Waterfall in Teesdale, County Durham. The skies are some of the darkest in the country and High Force will be illuminated – creating a spectacular ‘wow’ factor.
The evening begins with a delicious three course meal in the Garden Room and an insightful presentation. You will then walk down to the waterfall, where you will experience some of the darkest skies in the country. A stargazing expert will guide you through the wonders of the night, uncovering all the magic the night sky has to offer. During the North Pennines Stargazing Festival there are two dates to choose from – Friday 24 and Saturday 25 October, 6pm to 8.30pm.
Bring warm/waterproof clothes. The walk to the waterfall will be dark and may be slippery – suitable footwear is advised. For safety reasons please do not bring large bags, tripods or other bulky equipment.
No dogs please – they’re a trip hazard in the dark.
The walk down to the waterfall (approx. 600m) can be challenging for people with mobility issues. Mobility scooters are unable to be used on the route at night. If you have any questions regarding accessibility please contact High Force Hotel in advance (01833 622336 or highforcehotel@raby.co.uk).
The sky can sometimes be restricted by cloud cover or poor conditions. This is just the nature of the event and is beyond the organisers control. Whatever the sky conditions you are sure of a night of fascinating and insightful information and visual displays.
Booking

Pre-booking is essential via https://www.raby.co.uk/events/stargazing-supper/

Image: The Milky Way at High Force © Gary Lintern Photography.
This High Force Hotel & Waterfall (www.raby.co.uk/high-force/waterfall/) event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Stargazing at the Lord Crewe
2025-10-24 19:00 - 22:00 | Lord Crewe Arms, The Square, Blanchland, Northumberland, DH8 9SP, United Kingdom
Are we alone in the universe? This question has fascinated humans for a long time, and it has regularly come up as a conversation topic on previous stargazing events at The Lord Crewe Arms in Blanchland.
Come and listen to Andy Gray, the hotel’s resident stargazing expert, on Friday 24 October, 7pm to 10pm, and find out what the current thinking is, about the possibilities for other life out there.
If the weather is clear, expect a trip to the bottom of the garden to have a look through the telescopes. Wrap up in blankets and enjoy a hot drink to keep you warm. There will be a hearty stew and a delicious pud to greet you in The Gatehouse afterwards.
The ticket (£50) includes stargazing with a hot drink followed by a two-course supper. Please let the Lord Crewe team know in advance if you have any dietary requirements.
The Gatehouse is a 12th Century building accessed via external stone stairs and has steps of various sizes throughout. Please note it is not a dog friendly space.
Want to stay the night? Book your ticket and give the hotel a call on 01434 677100 – to reserve the best available room, at the special event rate of £160 bed & breakfast for the night.
Booking

Pre-booking is essential via https://lordcrewearms.wearegifted.co.uk/stargazing-evening-aliens

This Lord Crewe Arms event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Stargazing for beginners
2025-10-24 20:00 - 22:00 | Allenheads Observatory at ACA, Allenheads Contemporary Arts, Old School House, Allenheads, Hexham, NE47 9HR, United Kingdom
Ever wanted to explore the night sky but didn’t know where to start? Fortunately the team at Allenheads Observatory will guide you step-by-step under one of the country’s darkest skies – no prior knowledge needed.
At Allenheads Observatory at ACA, you will join expert astronomers for two hours of practical guidance. First, learn to navigate constellations and spot planets. Then, gain confidence using telescopes and binoculars. In addition, you will handle 4.6 billion-year-old meteorites, try interactive digital sky tours, and enjoy hot drinks and snacks in our heated indoor space. By the end of the evening, you will have the skills to explore the night sky on your own.
Event highlights include:

Navigate the night sky from one of the country’s top stargazing spots
Step-by-step guidance on telescopes and binoculars
Spot the Milky Way and constellations with ease
Handle real museum-standard meteorites
Digital stargazing if clouds appear
A friendly, interactive experience for ages 11+

Booking

Pre-booking is essential via https://astro.ventures/event/stargazing-for-beginners/
Adult (18+) – £22.50
Concessions (under 18, pensioners, armed forces, blue light card, carers) – £18.50
Family (4 people) – £55.50
Students – £20.50

Access to the Observatory is via a steep access road and has limited space for parking – please park considerately in the village and walk up (approximately 300m) or message (helenshead@acart.org.uk) to reserve a parking space.
Stargazing depends on clear skies, but events run regardless of the forecast. If clouds linger, indoor astronomy activities are offered to keep you inspired while waiting for breaks in the sky.
There is currently a 10% discount on all tickets for a limited time only. Suitable for all ages – 11 years of age and above. Spaces are limited – so book early. Free parking, toilets and heated indoor space. No dogs – they are a trip hazard in the dark. Not wheelchair accessible, no accessible toilet, no designated accessible parking, but drop-off near door.
To celebrate the North Pennines Stargazing Festival, the doors at Allenheads Observatory are being opened for unforgettable astronomy events – from guided sky tours under some of England’s darkest skies to hands-on activities with expert astronomers, each event not only inspires but also excites and connects you to the universe.
If you want to stay under the stars longer, nearby accommodation is available. Details will be shared in event confirmation emails.
Image: (c) AstroVentures
This Allenheads Observatory event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Dark sky astronomy and stargazing
2025-10-24 20:00 - 23:00, 2025-10-25 20:00 - 23:00 | Grassholme Observatory, DL12 0PW
The event will begin with a welcome from the lead astronomer at Grassholme Observatory, Gary Fildes. Gary is a very experienced science communicator and astronomer, and founder of the Kielder Observatory, where he was Director and CEO for over 11 years. During the North Pennines Stargazing Festival there are three evenings to choose from, Friday 24, Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October, 8pm to 11pm.
After the welcome Gary will take you on a whistle-stop tour of the Universe. Following this, you will be split into groups and, weather depending, start observing the sky, with telescopes and cameras.
With no Moon in the sky, you will look out for the Milky Way, and many deep sky objects like galaxies, nebulae and star clusters. You will then use the robotic telescope to scour the skies for other jewels in the cosmos. Then it’s back into the classroom for a hot drink and questions.
Bring warm clothes – it can get chilly when you are outside. The observatory, classroom and toilets are accessible. This is a pet-free event.
Booking

Visit https://www.grassholmeobservatory.com/book to book and for full terms and conditions.
Adult: £24 (16+)
Family: £70 (group ticket for 3-4 people, max of 4, min of 3 – at least 1 child)
Concession: £22 (65+, 1-16 years or Blue Badge holder)

Grassholme Observatory is wheelchair accessible and there are accessible toilets on site. For more information about Grassholme Waterside Park visit https://www.watersideparksuk.com/park/grassholme/
Image: The Milky Way above Grassholme Observatory © Grassholme Observatory.
This Grassholme Observatory (www.grassholmeobservatory.com) event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies
For directions visit www.grassholmeobservatory.com/contact/

Moon trail at Bowlees Visitor Centre
2025-10-25 10:00 - 16:00 | Bowlees Visitor Centre, Newbiggin, DL12 0XF
Our self-guided trail this half term holiday is a Moon-themed treasure trail, all part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival 2025.
Explore the woods around Bowlees Visitor Centre with your family. Follow the trail around the site, taking you on an exciting journey to the Moon. As you follow the trail you will pick up clues in the form of letters – spell out the word and you will receive a starry prize.
Pick up your instruction leaflet and answer sheet at the visitor centre – £1 per child. No booking required – you can just turn up and join in at your own pace.
The trail is outside – so please come dressed for the weather.

Available from Saturday 25 October to Sunday 2 November inclusive (10am to 4pm).

Image: The Moon © Graham Relf
This event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org
#NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Alston Moor stargazing
2025-10-25 18:00 - 21:00 | Alston Moor Observatory
Come along to this fabulous stargazing opportunity at the Alston Moor Observatory on Saturday 25 October, 6pm to 9pm. It is a combination of themed talks, and (weather permitting) stargazing.
There will be talks and a stargazing opportunity at a truly dark site in the South Tyne Valley in the North Pennines. As well as access to the observatory telescope you can also use binoculars and enjoy indoors presentations.
This event is aimed at amateur astronomers over 14 years. If you are aged 14 to 17 you must be accompanied by an adult.
Booking

Advance booking is essential – contact David Hymers on david@davidhymers.com / 07483 327560 to book and pay for your place, and for further information.
Adult: £12 (18+)
Child: £8 (under 18)

Arrive from 6pm for tea/coffee in the Golf Club bar, for event start at 6.30pm (finish approximately 9pm).
No dogs please – they are a trip hazard in the dark.
Note that if the skies are cloudy the event will still go ahead – with astronomers giving presentations, providing information and answering questions on all things ‘dark skies’.
The venue has no accessible parking nearby and it is not accessible for wheelchairs. There is no accessible toilet.
This event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Stargazing at Raby Castle
2025-10-25 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-10-25 21:00 - 22:30 | Raby Castle, Raby Castle, Staindrop, DL2 3AH
The team at Raby Castle is delighted to invite you, on Saturday 25 October, 7pm to 8.30pm, and also the later time of 9pm to 10.30pm, to an evening of stargazing at the historic castle, nestled within the serene expanse of its beautiful parkland. This exclusive event offers a rare opportunity to explore the night sky under the expert guidance of a professional astronomer.
Whether you are an experienced stargazer or a newcomer to astronomy, learn valuable insights into the celestial wonders above. This event is an exceptional occasion to enjoy the beauty of the cosmos, set against the timeless backdrop of Raby Castle, one of North East England’s most renowned landmarks.
Bring warm/waterproof clothes and wear suitable shoes. No dogs please – they’re a trip hazard in the dark.
The sky can sometimes be restricted by cloud cover or poor conditions. This is just the nature of the event and is beyond the organisers control. Whatever the sky conditions you are sure of a night of fascinating and insightful information
If you have any questions on accessibility contact Raby Castle in advance on 01833 660202 or admin@raby.co.uk
Booking

Pre-booking is essential via https://www.raby.co.uk/events/stargazing-at-raby-castle-3/

Image: The night sky at Raby Castle © Gary Lintern Photography.
This Raby Castle (https://www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle/) event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Dark skies stroll
2025-10-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Nenthead Mines
An opportunity to stroll around Nenthead Mines when it is dark on 25 October, 7pm to 9pm. This atmospheric walk offers a rare opportunity to explore a historic mine site after dark, safely guided by a professional who knows the area inside and out.
The area is known for its outstanding stargazing potential—and a chance to reflect on what it might have felt like for miners long ago making their way home after a shift, surrounded by silence and starlight.
All ages are welcome (children must be accompanied by an adult and must be able to walk or be carried – paths may not be suitable for pushchairs). Please bring a torch and dress warmly. Well-behaved dogs on a short lead are welcome.
The walk will cover approximately 3 miles, mostly on flat ground, with breaks along the way. Final details of the route may change, so please check back closer to the event for updates.
Optional donation of £3. Your donation enables the North Pennines National Landscape team to protect and restore this special place and help people connect with nature.
Please book using the link to Ticketsource

This event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org
#NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies

Chasing the Northern Lights
2025-10-25 20:00 - 22:00 | Allenheads Observatory at ACA, Allenheads Contemporary Arts, Old School House, Allenheads, Hexham, NE47 9HR, United Kingdom
Experience the magic of the night sky and discover the science, beauty, and mystery of the Aurora Borealis at the Allenheads Observatory at ACA, on Saturday 25 October, 8pm to 10pm.
Experienced astronomers will guide you on a two-hour journey through the cosmos. During this time, you will stargaze under pristine skies while learning how auroras form, when and where to see them, and why sightings increase. Additionally, you will learn how to anticipate a display.
You will leave with insider tips, practical skills, and a deeper understanding. Meanwhile, enjoy hot drinks and snacks in our heated indoor space.
Explore 4.6 billion-year-old meteorites and try interactive digital stargazing activities.
Event highlights include:

Learn how and why the Northern Lights appear
Spot constellations, planets, and the Milky Way
Use telescopes and binoculars under expert guidance
Handle real, museum-standard meteorites
Try digital astronomy activities if clouds appear
Enjoy a friendly, interactive evening for all ages

Booking

Pre-booking is essential via https://astro.ventures/event/chasing-the-northern-lights/
Adult (18+): £22.50
Concession (under 18 years, pensioners, armed forces, blue light card, carers): £18.50
Family (4 people): £55.50
Students £20.50

Stargazing depends on clear skies, but this event will run regardless of the forecast. If clouds linger, indoor astronomy activities are offered to keep you inspired while waiting for breaks in the sky.
Access to the Observatory is via a steep access road and has limited space for parking – please park considerately in the village and walk up (approximately 300m) or message (helenshead@acart.org.uk) to reserve a parking space. There is no wheelchair access or accessible toilet at the venue.
There is currently a 10% discount on all tickets for a limited time only. Suitable for all ages – 11 years of age and above. Spaces are limited – so book early. Free parking, toilets and heated indoor space.
No dogs – they are a trip hazard in the dark.
To celebrate the North Pennines Stargazing Festival, the doors at Allenheads Observatory are being opened for unforgettable astronomy events – from guided sky tours under some of England’s darkest skies to hands-on activities with expert astronomers, each event not only inspires but also excites and connects you to the universe.
If you want to stay under the stars longer, nearby accommodation is available. Details will be shared in event confirmation emails.
This Allenheads Observatory event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies
Image © AstroVentures

Dark sky stargazing
2025-10-26 20:00 - 22:00 | Allenheads Observatory at ACA, Allenheads Contemporary Arts, Old School House, Allenheads, Hexham, NE47 9HR, United Kingdom
Step beneath one of the darkest night skies in England and witness the Milky Way in all its glory. From the Allenheads Observatory at ACA, located in one of the darkest skies in the country, you will discover a stargazer’s paradise where the universe truly comes alive.
Because of its breathtaking views and immersive activities, this signature stargazing experience often sells out well in advance.
For two unforgettable hours, expert astronomers will guide you through the cosmos. Using telescopes, binoculars, and naked-eye tours, they will help you spot constellations, planets, star clusters, and deep-sky wonders you never knew existed. Along the way, you will explore the night sky’s secrets, handle museum-standard meteorites around 4.6 billion years old, ask burning space questions, and take part in hands-on astronomy activities.
Meanwhile, you can warm up with hot drinks and snacks in our cosy indoor space between observing sessions.
Event highlights include:

A memorable path to the furthest object visible with the naked eye
Milky Way viewing from one of the country’s premier dark-sky locations
Guided telescope tours led by experienced astronomers
Meteorite handling and fascinating talks
Digital stargazing activities if clouds appear
A family-friendly, adventurous evening you will remember for years

Booking

Pre-booking is essential via https://astro.ventures/event/dark-sky-stargazing/
Adult (18+) – £22.50
Concession (under 18, pensioners, armed forces, blue light card, carers) – £18.50
Family (4 people) – £55.50
Students – £20.50

Access to the Observatory is via a steep access road and has limited space for parking – please park considerately in the village and walk up (approximately 300m) or message (helenshead@acart.org.uk) to reserve a parking space.
Stargazing depends on clear skies, but events run regardless of the forecast. If clouds linger, indoor astronomy activities are offered to keep you inspired while waiting for breaks in the sky.
There is currently a 10% discount on all tickets for a limited time only. Suitable for all ages – 11 years of age and above. Spaces are limited – so book early. Free parking, toilets and heated indoor space. No dogs – they are a trip hazard in the dark. Not wheelchair accessible, no accessible toilet, no designated accessible parking, but drop-off near door.
If you want to stay under the stars longer, nearby accommodation is available. Details will be shared in event confirmation emails.
Image: (c) AstroVentures
This Allenheads Observatory event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 22 October to 2 November 2025 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org.uk #NorthPennStarFest25 #NPennDarkSkies
