Experience Scotland’s Dark Skies, right outside your cottage door
“It’s only when you go to a dark sky area that you can 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 is situated in an enviable position, just north of the Galloway Forest Park, spanning over 2,000 acres of private land around Shinnel Glen. This satellite image of the UK shows areas of light pollution, where we’re located to the left of the ‘U’ in that really dark space!
Visitors
The popularity of Forest Park has led to a significant increase in visitors in recent years, making it sometimes challenging 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 is that it’s completely private, offering 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 a cloudless sky, but we can ensure that you’ll have access to a pair of binoculars, a cosy, well-equipped cottage with a wood-burning 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, 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 globally.
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 street lighting and initiatives to reduce light pollution, it’s an ideal place to observe the stars. It’s also home to the Moffat Community Observatory and some gorgeous cafes and restaurants.
Dark Sky Ranger Tours
Why not book a private dark sky tour for yourself and your group 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.
Find your Stargazing Retreat at Auchenbrack
