High Bentham is a gateway town to both the Yorkshire Dales National Park and Forest of Bowland National Landscape. We’re incredibly fortunate to be located so close to two key areas, both with recognition for the quality of their landscape by day and their sensational skies by night.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park holds International Dark Sky Reserve Status. Benefiting from large areas that are free from light pollution and easily access by good roads, it’s a great place to enjoy the local dark skies.
So where can you see the stars if you’re staying with us?
On clear nights you will be able to enjoy uninterrupted views of our dark skies from your accommodation, whether you’re staying a lodge or pod at Wenningdale Escapes or in your own holiday home or tourer at Riverside Caravan Park.
Within the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, we are fortunate enough to have five designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites within the National Landscape, 3 of which are very close to us:
Gisburn Forest Hub and Slaidburn Village Car Park are within easy access of the park, albeit over rural roads which will be narrow and windy in places.
Going towards Lancaster, Crook o’ Lune Picnic Site is also a Dark Sky Discover Site.
If you’d like to head into North Yorkshire to attempt some astro photography or simply enjoy the stars then Ribblehead Viaduct Car park at far gearstons, LA6 3AS is a great place to take in the beauty of this famous viaduct as well as the stunning stars.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply curious about the mysteries above, enjoying our evening skies will ignite a sense of wonder within.
