Stars, stories and nature discoveries

06 November 2024

The North Pennines National Landscape team ran a successful family friendly event as part of the 8th North Pennines Stargazing Festival. ‘Stars, stories and nature discoveries’, was enjoyed by over 70 budding explorers, discovering more about nature and dark skies. This event was part of the Tees-Swale: naturally connected programme, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund using money raised by National Lottery players.

Rainy weather didn’t put people off and a cozy open fire to toast marshmallows and hot chocolate helped the group to warm up.

Malcolm Green, renowned North East storyteller, entertained folk with his stories about the skies and how constellations got their names. The lyrical rhythm of Malcolm’s tales captivated everyone, adding to the drama of the evening, creating a sense of connection and belonging to nature.

Across Low Birk Hatt Farm, Neill Sanders, from Go Stargazing, shared interesting astronomy and space facts. The weather cleared and Neill was able to share his expertise and enthusiasm for the night sky highlighting amazing constellations and planets. Looking through the high-tech telescope, the crowd were delighted to see Saturn’s Rings, the Milky Way and storms on the surface of Jupiter.

In the warmth and comfort of the main yurt, children and adults alike had fun taking part in craft activities, including pumpkin carving, telescope making and decorating a star wall. Children enjoyed finding out more about nature, especially dissecting owl pellets, discovering skulls and bones inside.

Gordon and Janice, who attended the event said, “We really enjoyed the evening. The event was so well considered, creating truly magical experiences. We particularly enjoyed the shared moments in the main yurt, gathered around a very welcoming fire, eating delicious hot soup and watching young people of all ages explore the natural world around them. Can’t wait now for the next event.”

Kennedy Page, part of the North Pennines National Landscape team said, “It was brilliant to see the faces of kids light up when they saw the rings of Saturn or stars beyond our own galaxy. Thank you to everyone involved who helped make this a special event, especially The National Lottery Heritage Fund.”

Following on from the success of stars, stories and nature discoveries, the North Pennines National Landscape team will be running other events. If you would like to keep up to date with what is happening in the North Pennines, then sign up to our newsletter.