We are very fortunate between October and March in being able to regularly see the stars and planets in all their glory (weather permitting). We feel we take this for granted especially when we hear from guests that they have never seen the stars like they have at Mellwaters.

Recently Northumbrian Water has teamed up with founder and ex-CEO of Kielder Observatory, Gary Fildes, to bring the public a fantastic new observatory at Grassholme Reservoir. Grassholme Observatory has been developed within an existing, under used building which has been refurbished, alongside a brand new purpose built facility. The first public events took place on the 21st August 2020 and to our knowledge were very well received. The facility is open from Wednesdays to Sundays, offering late night sessions on weekends, they also provide events for private and corporate groups. You can find further information, a schedule of events and online booking available at Grassholme Observatory.

The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Stargazing Festival
 

During the October half term the North Pennines AONB held their fourth stargazing festival week, with this year’s festival having to take a slightly different format due to Covid-19. This year they brought the public 3 online virtual events, 15 blogs on a wide range of dark sky topics, Interviews with experts, Children’s activities, daily stargazing tips and so much more. 

So how do you take part in stargazing and what do you need to enjoy the night sky at Mellwaters Barn Cottages?

Well, all you need to do is come and enjoy a break away with us between October and March and bring some warm winter clothing including warm coat, gloves, hat, scarf and wellies or boots. On a good clear night the sky will be lit up enough to really enjoy with the naked eye but please do bring your binoculars, telescopes, red light torches and deck chairs with you if you have them as this will surely enhance your experience. We can provide you with information about local observatory events, the 16 dark sky discovery sites, free stargazing apps to download and where the best places on the farm are to stargaze. 

For further information about the cottages, availability and things to do in the area go have a look around the rest of our website or why not check out some more of our posts here on the blog?

We were given this accredtation from Dark Skies Friendly Durham  in November 2020. Our holiday cottage guests all receive information on events happening in the area and where the best place on the farm is to view the stars. We also provide basicstart viewing equipment such as binoculars and red light torches.