Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, recognised for the quality of its starry nights and the work taking place to protect them. On a clear night, visitors may see the Milky Way, major constellations, bright planets, meteor showers and satellites without needing specialist equipment.

Plan a good night under the stars

• Check the weather and cloud forecast before travelling.
• Choose a place where night-time access and parking are permitted; do not block gates, lanes or emergency access.
• Allow 15 to 20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
• Use a dim red light where possible and keep white lights, noise and vehicle headlights to a minimum.
• Wear warm layers and suitable footwear, carry a charged phone and tell someone where you are going.
• Leave gates and livestock as you find them, keep dogs under close control and take every item of litter home.

The destination's Top 10 Places to Go Stargazing is a useful starting point, with locations across the National Park including Usk Reservoir, the National Park Visitor Centre, Llanthony, Llangorse Lake and Craig-y-Nos Country Park. Check the current access information for your chosen site before setting out.

Learn with a local specialist

Visitors who would like some guidance can book with experienced BBT members. Dark Sky Wales offers astronomy experiences, workshops and planetarium sessions, while Serydda Stargazing and Astrophotography offers guided stargazing, starbathing, light-painting and astrophotography workshops. Their current profiles lead to direct booking and contact information.

Make the evening part of your stay

Many rural accommodation businesses have naturally dark surroundings, but conditions, facilities and lighting differ from place to place. Beacons Bluff Escapes is one example of a stay where guests can enjoy the night sky. Use Find Places to Stay for the current range, then check directly with the business if dark-sky access or stargazing facilities matter to your visit.

Help protect the darkness

Dark skies are valuable for wildlife, human wellbeing and the visitor experience. Use only the light you need, point it downwards and switch it off when it is no longer required. Read more about the Bannau Brycheiniog International Dark Sky Reserve and its work to keep the night dark.