Where to Stargaze in and Around Belfast for a Dreamy Adventure
Recently, I’ve become totally obsessed with stargazing. It’s such a cool way to disconnect and appreciate the universe. But finding good spots near the city, where the city lights don’t ruin everything, has been a bit of a mission.
So, I set out to find the most accessible and amazing stargazing locations in and around Belfast. After exploring (and a few chilly nights!), I’ve compiled my top picks. Keep reading to discover these stellar spots and plan your own cosmic escape!
1. Divis and the Black Mountain
– Media credit: irish_eyes_photography_xo
Website: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/divis-and-black-mountain/
Address: Divis Road Hannahstown, Belfast BT17 0NG, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890825434
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM
My friends and I were in the mood for a little adventure, but we didn’t want to stay too far from the city, so we decided to go on a late-night camping trip to Divis and Black Mountain. I’m glad we followed our instincts because the night sky was breathtaking.
We enjoyed stargazing from the mountain, and with little light pollution, we could see the stars twinkling brightly. We also saw the whole city sprawled below us.
The hike was special, too.
Divis stands at 478 meters, while Black Mountain towers at 390 meters. The trek was easy because there were many well-marked trails along the way. We also stumbled upon some old stone structures, so it was a quick history field trip.
| Pro tip: There are two free car parks, so you don’t have to worry about finding a spot. After hiking, you can enjoy a cup of tea and scones at a cafe down the mountain. |
2. Oxford Island National Nature Reserve
– Media credit: conroddy79
Website: https://visitarmagh.com/places-to-explore/oxford-island-lndc/
Address: Craigavon BT66 6NJ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442838322205
Operating hours: 8 AM–9 PM
The International Dark Sky Association has recognized the Oxford Island National Nature Reserve as a Dark Sky Discovery Site, so we had to visit and try stargazing there.
During our trip, they held a public stargazing event, so it was fun to share the experience of seeing the Milky Way and the night sky with fellow astronomy enthusiasts.
But it’s not just the stars that attract me to this place. I also loved wandering along the five-mile footpaths to see wildlife. I enjoyed seeing swans and ducks gliding over the water. We also spotted a lot of birdlife at the Oxford Island Reserve.
| Pro tip: Visit during the new moon phase when the skies are at their darkest. This is when you can truly appreciate the brilliance of the stars without interference from moonlight. |
3. Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
– Media credit: mjliberante
Address: Belfast BT17 9LA, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 7:30 AM–10 PM
Can you stargaze at a local park? We tried doing so at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, and the answer is yes! It’s a hidden gem with over 128-acre meadows and serene gardens.
The best part is staying here at night because this place is an escape from the city’s light pollution. I recommend stargazing here during late summer for clear night skies. Then, just sprawl out and picnic with your friends under the stars.
It was established in 1959 as a memorial for Sir Thomas Dixon and has become a haven for locals who want to be closer to nature. You’ll enjoy walking through all its pathways and the International Rose Garden, which has over 45,000 blooming roses.
| Pro tip: Visit in late summer, when the skies are clear and warm. The park’s expansive open spaces provide an excellent vantage point for observing celestial wonders away from the city lights. |
4. Tollymore Forest Park
– Media credit: davidleedrone
Website: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/tollymore-forest-park
Address: Bryansford Rd, Newcastle BT33 0PR, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442843722428
The Tollymore Forest Park has been on many must-visit lists for Ireland, but that’s not all. You should also add it to your list of stargazing spots because this place transforms at night.
I’ve spent countless nights under the stars at this park, and it’s a game changer. My friends and I would build our tents, lie on the warm ground, and look at the sky. Just make sure to book in advance to secure a spot for stargazing.
Established in 1955, this park is Northern Ireland’s first state forest park. It’s known for its towering trees, set against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. The park also has walking trails for all fitness levels so people can enjoy more of the forest.
| Pro tip: Join one of the guided night walks offered by local tour groups. These walks provide insights into the natural wonders above and the fascinating history of this park. |
5. Castle Ward Estate
– Media credit: ntcastleward
Website: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward/
Address: Strangford, Downpatrick BT30 7BA, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442844881204
Operating hours: 10 AM–4 PM
Castle Ward Estate is known for being the location of Winterfell in Game of Thrones. But let me tell you, there’s more to this estate than its Hollywood appearance. It’s another hidden gem for stargazing in Ireland.
There are a lot of walking trails in this estate, and you’ll surely enjoy its gardens. After trying out these paths, you can lay down in the sunken garden and just stare at the night sky.
This estate, built in the 1760s for Lord and Lady Bangor, combines neoclassical and Gothic architecture. It is also home to Audley Castle, which dates back to the 15th century.
| Pro tip: Visiting Castle Ward during late summer or early autumn offers the best conditions for stargazing. The clear skies and cooler temperatures create ideal conditions away from city lights. |
6. Delamont Country Park
– Media credit: boutyeh
Address: 90 Downpatrick Rd, Killyleagh, Downpatrick BT30 9TZ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +443301374046
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
Delamont Country Park spans over 200 acres, so that’s a lot of space to enjoy the outdoors and the night sky. It’s been recognized as a top Dark Sky Discovery Site.
On clear nights, you can easily find a spot in the open field, lay back, and gaze up at the twinkling stars without worrying about the interference from city lights.
One of the things that I love here is the view of the Mourne Mountains against the night skies. While waiting for the nighttime, you can also check out the Strangford Stone, the tallest megalith in Ireland!
| Pro tip: The best time to visit Delamont Country Park for stargazing is winter, when the skies are typically clearer and darker. The park also hosts events in collaboration with the Irish Astro Association. |
7. Knockagh Monument
– Media credit: mynorthantrim
Address: Monument Rd, Carrickfergus BT38 8QG, United Kingdom
Knockagh Monument is another great escape to nature with a little dash of history. I must warn you, though: It’s on a hill, so pack a jacket to keep you warm while stargazing at night.
As you ascend 390 meters above sea level, you’ll be rewarded with lush greenery, a cityscape, and a clear night sky full of stars. Just a heads-up: bring drinks and snacks, as there are no cafes or restrooms at the top—just plain good views.
Knockagh Monument is the largest war memorial in Northern Ireland. It stands 110 feet tall and commemorates the souls of those from County Antrim who died during the World Wars. Its beautiful inscription reads, “O Valiant Hearts.”
| Pro tip: Try to visit during late summer or early autumn, when the skies are typically clearer. The lack of light pollution from nearby cities makes Knockagh Hill an excellent vantage point for observing constellations and meteor showers. |
8. Armagh Planetarium and Observatory
– Media credit: jw.martin
Website: http://www.armagh.space/
Address: College Hill, Armagh BT61 9DB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442837523689
Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM
Armagh Planetarium and Observatory is famous for its public stargazing nights. Here, my friends and I stood outside under the stars, tried out one of the best telescopes in the world, and chatted about the cosmos with real-life experts.
Archbishop Richard Robinson established the observatory in 1789. Today, it maintains one of the longest daily climate records in Ireland and the United Kingdom. Just think of all the other scientific discoveries here over the centuries.
Another great place to visit is the Digital Full Dome. When I tried it, I felt like I was catapulted into space. The visuals looked so real as they explained the life cycle of stars, and I felt like I was having my adventure in the Milky Way.
| Pro tip: The best time to visit is during these evenings when you can marvel at constellations and planets under expert guidance. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the universe! |
9. Altarichard Forest Car Park
– Media credit: crystal_peeples
Address: Ballymoney BT53 8XT, United Kingdom
Altarichard Forest Car Park is a convenient spot for stargazing. It’s between Magherahoney and Cushendall, so it’s easy to reach, and you can curl up under a blanket of stars.
Light pollution is practically nonexistent here. As you leave your car, you can look up and spot constellations. I remember being here during a meteor shower; it was thrilling to wish upon a star.
Apart from stargazing, you can also try out the walking trails in Altarichard. The paths wind through the forest, and you might also spot wildlife during your exploration.
| Pro tip: I recommend coming during autumn when the skies are typically clearer and more stable. This time of year enhances visibility and offers a chance to witness stunning meteor showers like the Orionids or Leonids. |
10. Killylane Reservoir
– Media credit: the.lonely_traveller
Address: R293+RR, Ballyclare BT42 3EP, United Kingdom
Killylane Reservoir is the Northern Ireland Amateur Astronomy Society’s go-to place to hang out. That alone gives it street cred as an awesome stargazing spot. When we went, the stars twinkled better than in other areas.
One of my favorite parts is the community of passionate stargazers here. So, expect to see like-minded folks with their telescopes chatting about constellations in the night sky. It was so fun to meet new people who share the same passion as me.
I also discovered they hold the annual Messier Marathon, organized by the East Antrim Astronomical Society. That’s another event I recommend you attend, because it’s a gathering to try to spot as many Messier objects as possible.
| Pro tip: Try visiting during autumn, specifically around October. The skies are often clear, and temperatures are cooler—perfect for cozying under blankets while gazing at constellations. |