Experience Scotland’s dark skies
Right outside your cottage door
“It’s only when you go to a dark sky area that you can really see how many stars are out there. Around almost all of them are other planets.”
— Profesor Catherine Haymans
See the stars like never before with a stargazing break on the Auchenbrack Estate…
South West Scotland has been hitting the headlines recently for being home to the UK’s first designated Dark Sky Park at the Galloway Forest Park. Aside from this designated area, there are several fantastic activities and things to do in our region for the stargazing enthusiast.
The Auchenbrack estate lies in an enviable position, just north of the Galloway Forest Park, in over 2,000 acres of private land around the Shinnel Glen. This satellite image of the UK shows areas of light pollution, we’re located to the left of the ‘U’ in that really dark space! The popularity of the Forest Park has meant a steep increase in visitors in recent years, making it sometimes pretty tricky to find a quiet spot to observe the night sky. Our self catering cottages are all situated at the heart of the estate, in a sparsely populated area with extremely low light pollution. The best part of it is that it’s completely private, giving you exclusive viewpoints, from the comfort of your holiday cottage.
Self catering cottages with private gardens and a spectacular view of the night sky…
All of our cottages are situated in remote locations in the glen. Prince’s Cottage and High Auchenbrack in particular offer the ultimate in privacy and seclusion, with your nearest neighbours located a good half a mile away.
Kilnmark Farmhouse and Kilnmark bothy share the same private courtyard, making them perfect for group stargazing breaks. Situated at the end of a private track, you can enjoy complete privacy.
So, what does a stargazing break at Auchenbrack look like? Well. we can’t guarantee you a cloudless sky, but we can guarantee that you’ll have access to a pair of binoculars, a cosy, well equipped cottage with a woodburning stove and ingredients to make the perfect luxury hot chocolate.
If you’re keen to explore all of the dark sky experiences that Dumfries and Galloway has to offer, why not try some of these during your stay…
Dark Sky experiences in Dumfries and Galloway…
Here are some of our favourite things to do for the stargazing enthusiast during your stay…
Galloway Forest Park - a designated dark sky park.
Just a short drive south, the Galloway Forest Park was recognised in 2009 by the International Dark Sky Association as a gold tier park. It was the first of its kind in the UK and the fourth in the world.
Dark Space Planetarium - Kirkcudbright
Head through the Forest Park to the artist’s town of Kirkcudbright and visit the incredible planetarium. With a state of the art dome and a whole host of interactive exhibits, it’s a great day out for adults and kids alike
Moffat - Dark Sky Town
The town of Moffat is about a 30 minute drive from Auchenbrack and is Europe’s first designated Dark Sky Town. With special streetlighting and initiatives to reduce light pollution, it’s a great place to go and see the stars. It’s also home to the Moffat Community Observatory and some gorgeous cafe’s and restaurants.
Dark Sky Ranger Tours
Why not book yourself and your group a private dark sky tour during your stay? Our local dark sky ranger can be booked to come to you! Explore the night sky, learn some tricks for photography and learn to identify planets, stars, comets and more. A bespoke experience you’ll never forget.
