Dark Night Skies
The South Downs National Park is the second International Dark Night Sky Reserve in England and one of only 22 in the whole world.
We are committed to protecting not only the land beneath our feet but the amazing sky above us.
In order to be recognised as an International Dark Night Sky Reserve, we had to prove that the South Downs National Park possesses an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment as well as complete the vital duty of introducing people to the stars above us and the animals that thrive in the darkness.
Did you know there are special places to watch the stars at night across the national park and the milky way can often be seen with the naked eye?
We have lots of nocturnal neighbours that make the most of our dark night skies in the National Park.
Out of the 18 species of bat found in the UK, 17 have been recorded in the National Park and we don’t stop there.
The South Downs National Park is a haven for owls, moths, nocturnal birds such as Nightjars and mammals such as badgers.
We work closely with local authorities and partners to minimise disruption to these living things, working hard to reduce light pollution and provide the perfect habitats for our nighttime friends.
Every year, we host an annual celebration of all things dark sky in February half term called the Dark Skies Festival.
Using our below resources, you can dive into the dark side of the South Downs, finding out more about our work as an International Dark Night Sky Reserve and even hosting your own celebration for all things Dark.