THINGS TO DO IN SWALEDALE IN FEBRUARY
Dark Skies Project - 14 February to 1 March
I am really excited at the prospect of the Dark Skies project which has run each year from 2016 and aims to showcase the amazing views of the stars you can get being away from urban light pollution.
There are four main ‘discovery‘ sites atat Hawes (DL8 3NT) and Malham (BD23 4DA) National Park Centres, Buckden National Park Car Park (BD23 5JA) and Tan Hill Inn (DL11 6ED). But of course you can just step outside and look upward - and pray for a clear night!
As well as these there are also quite a few special events going on so check them out and see what takes your fancy.
Friday 7th February
Kilnsey Full Moon Trail Rides is an event for those wishing to get on horseback and view the full moon - sounds great!
As a prelude to the Dark Skies Festival in February there is a Full Moon Horseback Rides together with the Kilnsey Trekking Centre. These full moon rides are a peaceful, magical and unique experience! Mount up as the sun sets and the moon rises. Follow the lead of an experienced guide through the moon lit woodlands and riverbank to see the Yorkshire Dales National Park in a luminescent glow.
Return to the stables and then back to The Tennants Arms in time for your evening meal. Limited to just 8 riders each evening, it is highly recommended that you reserve in advance to guarantee availability. This 60-minute experience is suitable for all levels of riders and you will be given an introduction to your horse before setting off. No former experience of riding is needed and it is well suited for both adults and children aged 8yrs and above.
Cost: Accommodation for one night + £20 per person.
Please see the Tennants Arms website for accommodation availability and pricing for this date.
Moonlight ride & stargazing
No riding experience necessary so what is stopping you?
Friday 14th February
This looks like a good idea and it’s free, the Planet Trail at Aysgarth Falls. Just pop along to the Falls and through the self guided trail learn all about the planets as well as taking in the great views of Aysgarth Falls.
Tuesday February 18th
Tickets Now Available
Super local as based in Low Row at the Low Row Institute just up the road from Swale View this event sees local astronomer and astrophotographer Paul Clark will take you on a journey through the night time year in Swaledale using time lapse videos and images of the glorious Yorkshire Dales night sky.
Tickets fee is £6.50 and are available here and donations towards a new roof to the Low Row Institute, please give generously. Refreshments will be available – donations to Sustainable Swaledale. An informal observing session may be held afterwards, weather permitting.
Tuesday 25th February
One event I am really keen to pop along to is the late night canoeing on Semer Water being run by the Low Mill Outdoor Centre where the session will be led by fully qualified British Canoeing instructors, so no previous experience is necessary.
Canoeing equipment will be provided. Adults and children over 9 years old are welcome. There is a special Dark Skies Festival offer price of £25 per person (Adults & Children alike)- Pre booking essential for this one and no refunds available if the weather doesn’t behave but there is an alternative planned!
These are just some of the events that are being run to celebrate the dark Skies Project. For a full listing click here. And happy stargazing!