There’s something undeniably magic about staring up at a velvet-black sky, and seeing the stars twinkling down at you like a scattering of diamonds. Luckily, here in Yorkshire, where rolling hills meet unspoilt countryside, we are totally blessed with places to be able to do this.
If you’ve not already heard of The Yorkshire Dark Sky Reserve, then prepare to be enchanted. Officially recognised for its pristine, light-pollution free skies, this is one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in Britain, and includes vast swathes of countryside where the stars shine bright in all their glory. Plus, for those who want to make an event out of it, this month the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival, runs from 13th February to 1st March 2026!
Whether you are a seasoned astronomer, or simply looking for a dreamy night under the stars, we’ve put together our recommendations for some of the best Yorkshire Escapes’ places to stay to stargaze and celebrate the magic. From cosy cottages tucked in the hills to remote moorland vistas, each of these luxury stays offers the best that the Yorkshire night sky has to offer.
The Stables, Near York
Amid acres of private countryside, The Stables offers an enchanting and peaceful playground when the sun sets. Following a relaxing dinner outside on the terrace, head into the hot tub and watch the night sky put on a private show just for you over the Vale of York – glass of fizz entirely optional! These are the kind of sky‑gazing moments that stay in your memory long after the night ends.
New Laithe, Kilnsey
A romantic bolthole for two, New Laithe is a cherished spot for starcrossed lovers to nightgaze together with pure uninterrupted vistas of the heavens. Located in the heart of Wharfedale, within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, this peaceful, cosy cottage has official Dark Sky status, with exceptionally low light pollution and front row seats to the spectacles above.
Howesyke, Near Leyburn
Sleeping up to 18 guests in luxurious grounds, Howesyke is a dream setting for a stargazing festival all of your own! Located right behind Bishopdale Beck and set back against the fells dramatically rising to 1400 feet behind it – you’ll be surrounded by some of the clearest night skies in northern England. Surrounding forested areas also make for a dramatic, almost cinematic, backdrop if you’re into astrophotography!
Cundall Hall Stables, Near Thirsk
Rolling hills, wildlife and wide open skies are the real selling points of this stunning one-bedroom stable conversion – perfect for spotting the Milky Way and constellations right from your doorstep. Outside, the walled garden, with its gentle water feature offers the perfect, secluded space for quiet reflection as you soak in the beauty of the twinkling constellations above.
Curlew Cottage, East Tanfield
Enjoy the very best of countryside views & blankets of stars in this stylish three-bedroom self‑catering retreat, overlooking rolling Yorkshire countryside. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows bring the serenity of rural Yorkshire to your stay during the day, and by night the views become truly stellar – making it ideal for stepping outside after dinner and soaking up a galaxy‑filled sky.
Hillside, Near Whitby
With open horizon views and minimal light pollution, Hillside is a dream for star loving groups of friends and family. Think sociable evenings on the garden terrace, platters of home cooked food, glasses of wine, and skies full of stars dancing above the hills. These starlit stays are perfect for family reunions or wellbeing retreats for up to 22 guests, and just 5-miles from Whitby, you can also enjoy unobstructed vistas over the water. Perfect for watching the stars rise and set along the East Coast horizon.
Cover Image: Mindaugas Vitkus
