Northern Nights: Where to Park Up for Starry Skies

Your Motorhome Adventure Starts Here with Easicampers Blackburn

There’s something magical about parking up your Motorhome or Campervan for the night, switching off your phone, and looking up to see a blanket of stars twinkling above. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or simply want a peaceful night under the cosmos, the North of England and Scotland offer some of the UK’s best dark sky spots — and they’re all easily reachable from Easicampers Blackburn.

So, where should you point your motorhome for a night under the stars? Here are our top picks.


🌌 1. Forest of Bowland, Lancashire

Just over an hour from Blackburn, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is also an official Dark Sky Discovery Site. Park up at Beacon Fell Country Park or Gisburn Forest Hub (check seasonal access), and you’ll be treated to wide skies and minimal light pollution.

Free spot tip: The Trough of Bowland has several quiet roadside lay-bys with stunning views — perfect for a peaceful wild camp. Always follow Leave No Trace principles.


🌠 2. Malham Cove, Yorkshire Dales

A short drive east will take you to one of the most dramatic landscapes in Yorkshire. Malham is a favourite with hikers, but at night, the skies open up into a stargazer’s dream. The limestone amphitheatre reflects the moonlight beautifully.

Stay nearby: Try the Gordale Scar car park (for shorter stays) or Knight Stainforth Caravan Park for a base with facilities.


✨ 3. Wasdale Valley, Lake District

For truly remote skies, drive your campervan deep into the Western Lakes. Wasdale Head, home to England’s deepest lake and highest mountain, offers unspoiled views and almost no light interference.

Wild camping tip: The car park near Wast Water is popular for overnight stays. It’s informal and scenic — just be discreet and respectful of other users and early-morning hikers.


🌌 4. Kielder Forest, Northumberland (Bonus Pick!)

Just beyond Yorkshire, Kielder Observatory offers one of the darkest skies in Europe. If you’re willing to drive a few more hours, it’s well worth it.

Stay suggestion: Kielder campsites are well-equipped, and wild spots exist near the reservoir — check local guidelines before staying overnight.


🌌 5. Galloway Forest Park, Scotland

This is the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, and it doesn’t disappoint. If your road trip takes you north of the border, make time for Clatteringshaws Loch or Loch Doon. You’ll be treated to uninterrupted views of the Milky Way — on a clear night, it’s breathtaking.

Free camping tip: Many forest car parks allow overnight motorhome stays — look for signs. The Forestry and Land Scotland site also lists permitted overnight parking spots.


🚐 Final Thoughts

Hiring a motorhome or campervan from Easicampers Blackburn gives you the freedom to chase the stars, not hotel check-ins. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or some solo serenity, our fully-equipped vans offer a warm bed, hot meal, and the night sky as your ceiling.

Tip: Bring a red torch, binoculars, and download a stargazing app like Stellarium to make the most of your cosmic adventure.

Ready to roll into the stars? Start your journey today with Easicampers Blackburn — and let the UK Northern Nights be your guide.

Branch Address


Easicampers
1 Highfield Rd
Blackburn
BB2 3AX


Telephone Number, E-mail


0044 (0)1254 495999
bookings@easicampers.com