Cassiotrio

Explore Cassiotrio’s diverse observation locations, each offering a unique stargazing experience. From secluded dark sky reserves to urban oases, our carefully curated list ranks spots based on light pollution levels. Dive into brief descriptions of each location, highlighting their distinct features and the ambiance they offer for observing the cosmos. Whether you’re seeking pristine views or convenient accessibility, our locations page provides insights into the perfect stargazing spots for every enthusiast.

Nestled in Dorking, Denbies Hillside presents a convenient escape from the urban bustle, just a stone’s throw away from central London. Despite its proximity to the city lights, this location surprises with relatively dark skies, particularly towards the south east and south west, offering prime stargazing opportunities. While the car park may have specific hours of free parking, it remains accessible for night-time stargazing excursions. With a hassle-free drive and nearby service stations, it promises a tranquil and convenient stargazing experience. Plus, the availability of benches adds to the comfort of this peaceful retreat under the stars.

Situated along the A3, Butser Hill offers sweeping panoramic views of the picturesque Surrey Downs, creating a stunning backdrop for stargazing enthusiasts. Despite the presence of the nearby highway, this location still provides relatively dark skies, making it an excellent spot for observing the cosmos. While light and noise pollution from the A3 may be noticeable, the breathtaking vistas compensate for it, offering an unforgettable stargazing experience. Similar to Denbies Hill, benches and a car park are available, but it’s advisable to coordinate with local authorities regarding parking regulations, especially for extended stays. Nevertheless, the vast open skies here promise awe-inspiring views of the night sky.

Nestled within London, Wimbledon Common offers a convenient spot for stargazing enthusiasts seeking lunar and planetary observations. While the area experiences high light pollution, making it less ideal for deep space observations, it remains a pleasant location to observe celestial bodies within our solar system, such as the moon and planets. On-street parking near the site is available, with free parking permitted after specific hours, providing accessibility for visitors interested in shorter stargazing sessions or lunar viewing experiences. Despite the light pollution, Wimbledon Common offers a tranquil urban setting for appreciating the wonders of the night sky.

Pulborough: Bignor Hill

Bignor Hill stands as an exceptional stargazing destination, offering a truly dark sky experience amidst the serene Surrey Downs landscape. Renowned as one of the darkest spots in the area, it promises unparalleled celestial views. However, before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to check recent weather conditions as the roads leading to the site are susceptible to flooding. Additionally, navigating around sizeable potholes demands careful attention, particularly for drivers venturing out after dark. Nonetheless, for confident drivers, the drive proves worthwhile, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the night sky, especially towards the west, and minimal light pollution within the designated car park area. While ascending to the summit offers even more expansive vistas, be mindful of increased light pollution from nearby towns. Keep a vigilant eye out for local wildlife, including wild deer and badgers, adding to the enchanting experience of stargazing amidst nature’s beauty.

Godalming: Devil’s Punch Bowl

Situated conveniently along the A3 and in close proximity to London, Devil’s Punch Bowl offers accessible stargazing opportunities for urban enthusiasts. While it provides a moderately dark sky, the presence of surrounding urban areas results in noticeable light pollution, impacting observations from the car park. Furthermore, restricted views due to the tree line may hinder visibility, both from the car park and if you choose to venture away from it. Despite these limitations, the location boasts free parking and remains a viable option for those seeking a convenient stargazing experience near London.

Check out some of our images from the above sites!