The Dark Sky Public Observatory

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Open to everyone the Battlesteads Dark Sky Discovery Observatory is an accessible public astronomical observatory offering stargazing, activities, talks and astrophotography courses to suit anyone from the absolute beginner to the professional. Click here to buy your event tickets
We’re an officially designated “Milky Way” Dark Sky Discovery Site the observatory has a Bortle Dark Skies rating of 1 (the highest rating), and a TESS Stars4All camera streaming live sky data here, showing our darkest night so far had an SQM reading of 21.77.  Located in Wark the observatory offers the perfect compromise between the beautiful majesty of rural dark skies and the facilities offered at a multi-award winning hotel, bar and restaurant.

  • Stargazing Events Calendar

    Stargazing Events Calendar

    With stargazing events on most nights of the week there's something for everyone from the newbie to the seasoned expert. You can even bring your own telescope for help and advice.

    View Calendar
  • Hotel

    Hotel

    An award winning hotel with a range of accommodation from simple, elegant rooms to Luxury Stargazing Lodges, with King Sized beds, and big whirlpool baths.

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  • Bar & Restaurant

    Bar & Restaurant

    Award winning local & home grown organic produce - there's something for everyone from stargazing snacks to a full 8 course taster meal. Click the link below to see some food & drinks menus, (and the wine list.)

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