Kielder Observatory is a public astronomical observatory and educational charity offering expert-led stargazing and astronomy experiences in Kielder Forest, Northumberland. Perched high on Black Fell in the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, we sit within the largest area of protected night sky in Europe. Northumberland has some of England’s finest dark skies, with the highest proportion of pristine nigh sky of any English county.

We exist to bring people closer to the Universe. Since opening in 2008, we have welcomed more than 255,000 visitors to look up, ask questions and discover the night sky for themselves. Our astronomers and volunteers make astronomy accessible whether you are looking through a telescope for the first time or have been fascinated by space your whole life.

Kielder Observatory is a VisitEngland Quality Assessed visitor attraction, described as “one of the most remarkable places to visit in the whole of the UK”. National Geographic has also described Kielder Observatory as Northumberland’s top stargazing spot and one of the finest places in the UK to experience the night sky.

Public astronomy sessions are at the heart of what we do, combining telescope observing with stories, science, conversation and hands-on activities. Depending on the season and conditions, you might see planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies or the Milky Way stretching overhead. Our sessions are designed for complete beginners, families, experienced stargazers and anyone curious about the Universe, while our wider work takes astronomy into schools, communities and outreach programmes across the region.

The Observatory itself is part of the experience. Set deep within Kielder Forest, close to James Turrell’s Kielder Skyspace and far from the artificial light of our towns and cities, it was built as a place where people could come together and experience the night sky in an extraordinary setting.

We also run regular astronomy sessions from our dedicated Twice Brewed Inn Observatory and planetarium on Hadrian’s Wall, giving visitors another permanent base from which to experience Northumberland’s dark skies with the Kielder Observatory team.

Ready to look up? Explore our upcoming stargazing and astronomy sessions and book your visit.