8 T e Travel Guide
Stargazing in the Yorkshire Dales
Awarded International Dark Sky Reserve status in 2020, Yorkshire’s Dales are one of the UK’s most sparkling places for star spotting. Words: Ben Lerwill
In the daytime, the Yorkshire Dales encapsulate a kind of storybook version of rural England, which is precisely why so many visitors come calling. Depending on your predilection, you’ll fi nd ready supplies of everything from fell-running trails to top-notch tearooms. But when the sun goes down, the Dales take on an altogether diff erent appeal. After a concerted local eff ort,
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the national park was awarded International Dark Sky Reserve status in 2020, thanks to large swathes of the map being almost completely free of light pollution. Four locations have been designated as Dark Sky Discovery Sites, including the visitor centres at Hawes and Malham, the car park at Buckden, and the highest pub in Britain — the remote Tan Hill Inn. Meanwhile, another great stargazing spot is in the west of the park, in the area around Ribblehead Viaduct (which forms part of the
loping fi elds and dry-stone walls. Swaledale sheep and brown hares. Low-slung hills and glassy streams.
fabled Settle to Carlisle railway line). T ese days, of course, astronomy-
based tourism is very much a thing. More than 20 businesses around the park are now recognised as ‘Dark Sky Friendly’ — from camping and glamping sites to B&Bs and hotels — and not only provide equipment and tips, but take steps to reduce their own light pollution. But if you really want to make the
most of the Dales’ post-sundown potential, try to come calling during the park’s Dark Skies Festivals, which take place annually around February and March. Stretching over two weeks (10-26 February in 2023), this celebration of starry skies includes night-time activities as diverse as astrophotography workshops, group fell-runs, nocturnal wildlife trails, zip wires, kayaking, biking, mindfulness sessions and canoeing. Families, fi rst-time stargazers and astronomy buff s are all welcome.
darkskiesnationalparks.org.uk
First published in the May 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Fastpacking
Great gear is the foundation of a fastpacking adventure, which combines the best of ultralight backpacking and trail running. Words: Amy Sedghi
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Trekking/ Running Poles For lightweight and foldable trekking and running poles, look no further than mountaineering brand Black Diamond. Crafted from carbon with a z-pole fi xed length construction, these are durable, simple to collapse and weigh a mere 150g per pole. £130.
blackdiamondequipment.com
Garmin InReach Mini 2
Fastpacking can take you into wild, remote landscapes, so be prepared with Garmin’s palm-sized satellite communicator. Weighing 100g, the latest model has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 20 days. It sends SOS alerts and can be used to share location details and messages with those back home. £299.99.
garmin.com
Falke energizing knee-high socks
Purveyors of high-quality socks, German brand Falke have got you covered with these hard-wearing and breathable knee-high running socks. As well as working to delay fatigue, thanks to their gradual compression, they also protect against supination and over-pronation. £46.
falke.com
Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30
T is combined pack and hydration vest has space for two water bottles, plus a zip-down main compartment, a breathable back panel and sliding rail sternum straps. It can expand up to 30 litres or pack down, thanks to its roll-top closure. £155.
wiggle.co.uk
Finisterre Biosmock
insulated jacket T e brand’s fi rst fully circular, biodegradable jacket is built to perform over a lifetime of adventures, before breaking down safely. It’s insulated, water-resistant and comfortable, too. £250. fi
nisterre.com
First published in the April 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
The Milky Way behind a lone ash tree in the Yorkshire Dales National Park PHOTOGRAPH: GETTY
Promotional Content • Saturday 28 May 2022
Rab storm bivi bag
Yhis waterproof bivi bag is built with two weights of tough nylon and fi nished with a fl uorocarbon-free water repellent coating. Breathable mesh panels minimise condensation, keeping you warm and dry while you sleep. £120.
rab.equipment/uk
On Long Tights
T ese running leggings are made from 50% recycled materials. T ey have inserts above the knee to protect tendons in cold weather, plus there’s a useful covered back pocket that’s big enough to hold valuables. £95.
on-running.com
ECCO Biom 2.1 X Country Trail
Running shoes T ese high-performance lightweight shoes are perfect for trail running, hiking and cross-country pursuits. T e ultra-light midsole is great for bounce, while a rubber outsole aids stability and provides grip on testing trails. £130.
gb.ecco.com
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