Is there any sight which offers humans more wonder, intrigue and dash of existential dread than the open starry sky at night? A glimpse of the innumerable galaxies in our universe dazzles our minds, as well as our minds. So whether you want to gaze up at the stars and question your place in the universe, or just enjoy the sparkly lights as a gorgeous backdrop with your friends or loved ones, Brighton holds some of the most impressive stargazing spots around.
South Downs National Park
England’s newest national park stretches across 1627 km² of chalklands, dappled woodlands and rolling hills. This Area of Outstanding National Beauty is the perfect place to watch the sun go down over stunning views of Brighton and the Sussex coastline before the night sky emerges.
As one of only two International Dark Sky Reserves in England, you can enjoy sweeping views of the starry skies free from light pollution, allowing you to spot stunning constellations and planets with some of the greatest clarity in the UK.
Offering stunning walks through open countryside, with sweeping views over Brighton and beyond, why not bring along a picnic to enjoy while the sun goes down? Then, when the darkness settles, you will be treated to some of the most incredible scenes of the night sky imaginable. Expect to spot classic constellations like Orion, and, in the darker areas, you can even witness the spectacular Milky Way!
Devil’s Dyke
Situated within the South Downs National Park is Devil’s Dyke, the longest, deepest and widest ‘dry valley’ in the UK. As a Dark Sky Discovery Site, Devil’s Dye is officially recognised as a sensational stargazing spot, with stunning sightlines, minimal light pollution and freely accessible public access. And since it is situated just 2 miles north of Brighton, you can be away from the city lights in no time.
When the sun sets and the stars come out, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the night sky, while sipping on a flask of hot chocolate or a glass of wine. And with free parking after 6 pm, gentle slopes and mobility spaces available, Devil’s Dyke is easily accessible for most. You can also enjoy a drink in the local Devil’s Dyke pub to warm up after your stargazing. To avoid any potential light pollution from the pub, head towards the far end of the car park.
Worthing Astronomers also run regular community outreach events open to the public, where you can enjoy their expertise on the night sky, and perhaps even have a go on their telescopes!
Address: Devils Dyke BN1 8YL
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/devils-dyke
Ditchling Beacon
For a stargazing spot as close to the night sky as you can get, why not visit Ditchling Beacon, the highest point in East Sussex? You will feel as if you’re truly amongst the stars from this impressive summit at 248 metres above sea level with 360-degree views and minimal light pollution.
Despite being just 7 miles north of bustling Brighton, Ditchling Beacon is also a Dark Sky Discovery Site, where you can enjoy the officially recognised quality stargazing. With the Orion Classification, all seven main stars in the Orion constellation are visible to the naked eye, and you are shielded from surrounding light pollution.
Parking is free after 6 pm and for National Trust members, or just £3 for all-day parking. The car park and surrounding area are accessible for wheelchair users, though the summit viewpoint may pose some challenging terrain for wheelchair users.
Address: Ditchling Beacon National Trust Car Park, Brighton, BN1 9QD
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/ditchling-beacon
Bignor Hill
True stargazing enthusiasts will enjoy the legendary stargazing on offer at Bignor Hill, one of the darkest spots available in Sussex. This Dark Sky Discovery Site holds a Milky Way classification, making it a significantly darker site where the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. So for a chance to observe our galaxy and take in the stunning milky glow of billions of stars, Bignor Hill is the perfect place for truly clear stargazing.
Situated within the historic Slindon Estate, 3500 acres of countryside, ancient parkland and rural walking, Bignor Hill is a truly incredible stargazing spot. While a little way out of Brighton, about an hour’s drive, the astronomical atmosphere of stargazing at Bignor Hill makes it worth the wait. The views of the night sky are unparalleled, and it is the closest spot to Brighton from which to view the Milky Way in all its magical glory.
Although off the beaten track, Bignor Hill is accessible by a hilltop car park, meaning the stunning views from the summit are accessible by car. Whether you choose to soak in the sky from the carpark or wander along the south downs for a private stargazing spot, you will enjoy panoramic views reaching as far as the Isle of Wight, all watched over by the beautiful starry skies.
Address: Slindon Estate, National Trust Car Park, Bignor Hill, Pulborough, RH20 1PH
Birling Gap
Alongside the legendary Seven Sisters chalk cliffs along the east of Brighton is the stunning Birling Gap, a Dark Sky Discovery Site on the coast near Eastbourne where the South Downs meet the sea. Just 50 minutes outside of Brighton, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the night sky over the ocean, and the iconic chalky cliffs, all painted in magical starlight.
While listening to the calming sound of the sea, visitors can sit back and enjoy the views either from the convenient carpark or by descending the 50 steps onto the beach. Whether you choose to bask in the moonlit glow over the cliffs or to visit on a new moon night to get the best view of the stars, you are sure to be captivated by the magnificent celestial bodies on display.
This national trust site offers free parking for members after 6 pm, or park all day for just £6, if you’d like to enjoy a twilight walk or an afternoon picnic before settling in for a night of stargazing. With accessible toilet/baby changing facilities and accessible on-site parking, stargazing at Birling Gap is easy for all.
Address: East Dean, near Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN20 0AB
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters
Brighton Seafront with Brighton Astro
If you’d like to benefit from some expert guidance to support your stargazing session in Brighton, then Brighton Astro’s monthly meetings might be just what you need. On the first Thursday of every month, except August, everyone is welcome to come along for a free stargazing talk at Wagner Hall, followed by a weather-dependent seafront stargazing session using telescopes. Suitable for novices, beginners and experts alike, you are certain to come away feeling like a cosmic champion. Different guest speakers will explore different astronomical areas of interest, leaving you fully equipped to spot constellations, planets and orbital objects like a pro.
Website: https://brightonastro.com/
Email: hello@brightonastro.com
The i360
If you’d like to rise as close to the stars as possible to catch a glimpse of the solar system, then a dusk trip in the i360 may be perfect for you. With opening times as late as 21:00 in the spring and summer months, you can enjoy a sunset or twilight glide up in the air to watch the stars emerge.
For stargazers who want to enjoy the crisp, clear winter skies, while keeping warm and enjoying a glass of something, then an autumn or winter trip allows you to glide through the air post-sunset and soak up the stunning skyline over the nighttime sea, with opening times as late as 18:00 in December.
Alternatively, keep an eye out for the annual South Downs Dark Skies Festival, offering a range of stargazing events across Brighton. This includes 45-minute official stargazing events in the i360, where the lights are switched off, and a guest speaker takes you through guided stargazing from 450ft in the air, with powerful telescopes.
Address: i360, Lower Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2LN
i360 Website: https://www.brightoni360.co.uk/
South Downs Dark Skies Festival Website: https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/dark-night-skies/dark-skies-festival/
Overall, amateur astronomers and expert explorers of the night sky have a huge range of stunning stargazing spots to choose from, both in the heart of Brighton, its majestic South Downs National Park and further afield. Whether you choose to join an expert stargazing session or go solo, and whether you head to the remote rolling hills or cosy coastal coves, you will enjoy unparalleled views of the sky, shielded from the light pollution of Brighton’s busy centre.
