The ‘magical’ island and ‘tranquil’ village in North Wales are among the UK’s best stargazing spots
Troy L. Milliron
3 min read
A ‘magical’ island and ‘tranquil’ village in North Wales has been named one of the UK’s top 10 stargazing spots. The beauty of North Wales is indisputable – day and night – but according to the latest research, there are two places in the region that offer particularly breathtaking views of the night sky.
Stargazing is enjoyed by many across the UK, but light pollution can make it difficult to see the sky in all its glory. North Wales is fast becoming a favorite spot for stargazers across the country, with many constellations visible to the naked eye without the need for specialist equipment.
A study by Psychic World has revealed the UK’s top 10 stargazers – and two of them are in North Wales. First on the list is the tiny tidal island of Ynys Llanddwyn off Anglesey, followed closely by the ‘little Italy’ of Gwynedd – Portmeirion.
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These two sites have been named among the best stargazing sites in the country, based on factors such as light pollution and night sky brightness. According to the researchers, the conditions at Portmeiron and Ynys Llanddwyn are perfect for spotting stars thousands of light-years away in the galaxy, including the North Star and the constellation Cassiopeia.
Both spots are already favorites with tourists during the day, but there seems to be plenty on offer late into the night. Ynys Llanddwyn is popular with locals and visitors alike, known for its scenic views and historic lighthouse overlooking the Menai Strait.
(Picture: Catherine Chambers/Facebook)
A TripAdvisor review reads: “This is a truly magical place, good parking and wonderful walks. The walk to the island is a must, lots to see, Celtic cross, stone chapel ruin and walks to the lighthouse plus many hidden beaches and coves.”
Another said: ‘Gorgeous, peaceful, fantastic for walking and cycling, sandy beaches, be careful if you go to the island and check the tides.’ The Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion in Gwynedd also attracts tourists in droves and was recently named one of the UK’s most ‘Instagrammable’ landmarks.
(Image: Ian Cooper/North Wales Live)
Following a trip to Portmeirion, one person wrote on TripAdvisor: “There’s nowhere like Portmeirion, it’s unique, the fun part is the perspective, the many views and if you get there early enough, the quiet beauty is breathtaking.”
Another, who had traveled a long way to the village, said: “The place is just magical! Although the 3 hour drive wasn’t ideal, once we got there it was worth it. I Highly recommend a visit to this place.”
Tresco on the Isles of Scilly, where astronomers can see the Triangle galaxy, 2.73million light-years from Earth, with the naked eye, is among the UK’s best stargazing sites . And Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye, an area of Scotland’s famous remote island well known for its natural beauty.
Have you stargazed in North Wales? Let us know in the comments section below.
