Our Dark Sky Reserve

We are extremely proud to have been designated the very first International Dark Sky Reserve in Europe in 2011.

We have some of the darkest skies in the country -  visit this link to see a light pollution map of the UK and you'll see us down in the south west and just how dark the skies above Exmoor National Park are compared to other areas.

The map above shows Exmoor's Dark Sky Reserve core area of darkness (meeting minimum criteria for sky quality and natural darkness), and a peripheral area that supports dark sky preservation in the core.

An International Dark Sky Reserve is a 'land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural, heritage and/or public enjoyment'. Reserves are designated by the International Dark Skies Association following a rigorous application process.

Further details about our designation, including links to our application, lighting management plan and annual reports, can be found on the DarkSky International website.