DAYSOUT
STARRY SKIES
Luckily for us, Kent is prided on its broad skies and low light pollution, making it a perfect destination for stargazing. Across the county you’ ll find an array of vantage points for soaking up the night’ s celestial displays. Here’ s some of the very best locations to experience Kent’ s cosmic magic.
The Battle of Britain Memorial, Folkestone battleofbritainmemorial. org
Perched high upon the cliffs of Capel-le-Ferne and overlooking the English Channel, this poignant memorial honours the heroic men who fought and fell during the Battle of Britain.
By day, it’ s a place of reflection and remembrance; by night, however, it transforms into a remarkably open, low-light spot for stargazing. Friend of the memorial and talented photographer Greg Esson has captured dazzling shots of the stars glittering the skies above the remarkable visitor centre, including The Wing- named for its Spitfire-shaped design- and the beautifully carved airman statue standing watch beneath the night sky.
Dungeness Beach & National Nature Reserve, Dungeness rspb. org. uk
A vast, otherworldly shingle beach, Dungeness is one of Kent’ s most extraordinary landscapes- and one of its darkest. With its small, scattered population and minimal light pollution, the setting boasts some of the clearest night skies in the South East. On crisp winter nights, starlight bounces off the sea and the distant glow of a lighthouse makes a visit here all the more atmospheric- not to mention the opportunity to spot glittering star clusters when conditions allow. The RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve also hosts occasional nighttime wildlife and stargazing events, offering a rare glimpse into the site’ s nocturnal wonders.
© Greg Esson / Battle of Britain Memorial Trust CIO
THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL
Farthing Common, nr Folkestone kentdowns. org. uk
A top pick for both seasoned star spotters and outdoor adventurers, Farthing Common comes highly recommended for evenings well spent under an expanse of twinkling stars. One of the highest points of the North Downs at 185 metres above sea level, it offers far-reaching views across the county, and, on a clear day, way beyond the South Downs. By night, this hilltop destination combines rural seclusion and elevation to create a superb dark-sky spot- with on-site parking for the view point and plenty of open space to settle in for an evening of cosmic contemplation.
Toys Hill, Brasted Chart nationaltrust. org. uk
One for the history buffs, Toys Hill is among the highest points in Kent and the very place that inspired Octavia Hill to found the National Trust. Surrounded by beauty, wildlife and historical importance, it’ s also famed for its crystal-clear starry skies- especially by stargazers hoping to catch a glimpse of the Milky Way arching above the Weald on an unspoilt winter’ s night.
Reculver Country Park & Towers, Herne Bay english-heritage. org. uk
© Dirk Seyfried Photography
DUNGENESS
An extraordinary stretch of coastline, Reculver’ s imposing tower ruins and Roman fort dominate the skyline- the evocative remains of a medieval church acting as a navigation marker for ships at sea. Explore the ancient remains, traverse the park’ s coastal trails and as dusk falls, watch the towers form a striking silhouette creating an astonishingly atmospheric nighttime setting.
Kingsgate Bay, Broadstairs visitthanet. co. uk
Framed by towering chalk cliffs and sea-carved arches, Kingsgate Bay is one of the most picturesque- and peaceful- spots along the Thanet coast. Its sheltered cove, tucked away from the brighter lights of nearby Broadstairs, offers a surprising pocket of darkness perfect for stargazing on clear nights. As the tide draws back and the beach widens, reflections of constellations shimmer across the wet sand while the silhouette of Kingsgate Castle adds a touch of drama to the skyline. On calm evenings, you can trace the Milky Way above the archway and listen to tide as it ebbs and flows beneath the star-studded sky.
© Chris Cork
KINGSGATE BAY
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