gavin The Northern Lights, or the aurora borealis, is one of nature’s most spectacular light shows. This stunning phenomenon, caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s atmosphere, creates shimmering displays of green, purple, and pink lights across the night sky. Most people associate the Northern Lights with destinations like Iceland, Norway, or Finland, but did you know you can catch a glimpse of them in the UK? In fact, during periods of intense solar activity, the lights can be seen from several spots across the UK. Take a look at our list of the best place in the UK to see the northern lights.
This winter presents a particularly excellent opportunity to witness the aurora, as the sun will be at its 11-year solar maximum. This means the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are higher than usual due to an increase in solar activity, which heightens the auroral displays. The solar maximum cycle is a part of the Sun’s natural rhythm, where every 11 years, sunspot activity is at its peak, boosting aurora visibility.
In this article, we’ll explore the best places in the UK to witness this mesmerising display. From the remote Scottish Highlands to the Northern Irish coast and the Isle of Skye, these locations offer a prime view of the lights. Let’s discover where you should go to see the Northern Lights in the UK this autumn and winter.
1. Shetland Islands, Scotland
The Shetland Islands, located at the northernmost tip of the UK, are one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Known as the “Mirrie Dancers” by locals, the aurora is frequently visible during periods of high solar activity, especially in autumn and winter when the nights are longer and darker.
Why Shetland?
The Shetland Islands’ remote location and lack of light pollution make them an ideal destination for viewing the Northern Lights. The islands lie closer to the Arctic Circle than any other part of the UK, increasing your chances of seeing the aurora. The skies are often clear, offering uninterrupted views of the lights when they appear.
What Makes It Special?
The Shetland Islands not only provide an excellent backdrop for the Northern Lights, but they also offer stunning natural scenery, wildlife, and a rich Viking heritage. Autumn is a great time to visit for nature lovers, with migratory birds and seals adding to the charm. For the best aurora experience, head to locations such as Lerwick or Sumburgh Head.
2. Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye, with its dramatic landscapes, is another top spot for aurora enthusiasts. Skye is one of Scotland’s most scenic locations, and witnessing the Northern Lights above the island’s rugged terrain and mountain ranges is a truly magical experience.
Why Skye?
Skye’s northern location and low levels of light pollution make it an excellent place to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The island’s remote villages and natural landmarks, such as the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing, offer breathtaking viewpoints to watch the aurora unfold. Clear, crisp nights in autumn provide ideal conditions for aurora hunting.
What Makes It Special?
Skye’s unique combination of natural beauty and aurora sightings makes it a standout destination. While you’re waiting for the Northern Lights, take the time to explore Skye’s ancient castles, dramatic coastline, and misty lochs. For the best views, head to the northern part of the island, particularly near Uig or Staffin.
3. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Cairngorms National Park, located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. During autumn and winter, this national park becomes a fantastic location to witness the Northern Lights due to its dark skies and high-altitude vantage points.
Why Cairngorms?
Cairngorms National Park offers vast, open spaces with little to no light pollution, creating ideal conditions for spotting the aurora. The park’s mountainous terrain provides elevated viewpoints that enhance your chances of seeing the lights. Aviemore, a popular base for visitors, is well-positioned for aurora sightings.
What Makes It Special?
Cairngorms is not only a haven for Northern Lights enthusiasts but also for nature lovers and adventure seekers. While you wait for the skies to light up, enjoy hiking, cycling, or even skiing in the park’s pristine wilderness. You can also visit the charming Highland villages nearby, such as Braemar or Ballater, which offer cosy spots to warm up after a night of aurora watching.
4. Orkney Islands, Scotland
The Orkney Islands, located just off the north coast of Scotland, are another fantastic destination to witness the Northern Lights. The islands are steeped in ancient history, with standing stones, burial chambers, and Viking ruins scattered across the landscape.
Why Orkney?
Orkney’s location far from mainland light pollution, combined with its clear, dark skies, make it one of the best places in the UK to see the aurora. The autumn and winter months are especially good for aurora viewing, with fewer hours of daylight and increased solar activity during the solar maximum.
What Makes It Special?
Orkney offers a unique blend of history and nature. When you’re not scanning the skies for the Northern Lights, explore the island’s Neolithic sites such as Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and Maeshowe. The islands’ wild, windswept landscapes also provide a striking contrast to the shimmering auroras above.
5. Northumberland National Park, England
While Scotland is undoubtedly the best place in the UK to see the Northern Lights, there are a few spots in England where the aurora can sometimes be seen during periods of intense solar activity. Northumberland National Park, in the northeast of England, is one such location.
Why Northumberland?
Northumberland National Park has some of the darkest skies in England, making it a prime location for stargazing and, on rare occasions, seeing the Northern Lights. The park is home to the Kielder Observatory, a world-renowned dark-sky site that offers guided tours and astronomy events.
What Makes It Special?
The park’s remote location and dark skies make it a fantastic destination for stargazing in general, even if you don’t catch the Northern Lights. Northumberland’s rugged landscapes, including Hadrian’s Wall and the Cheviot Hills, add to the area’s charm. Visit the observatory for expert guidance on aurora watching and stargazing.
6. Northern Ireland’s Coast
The northern coast of Northern Ireland, particularly around the Antrim coast and the Giant’s Causeway, is one of the best place in the UK to see the northern lights. It is one of the best places outside of Scotland. This area, with its dramatic cliffs and wild coastline, offers the perfect setting for aurora spotting.
Why Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland’s coastline offers a combination of dark skies and stunning natural scenery. The aurora is less frequently visible here than in Scotland, but during periods of high solar activity, it’s possible to see the lights dancing over the sea. The area’s remote beaches and headlands provide unobstructed views of the northern horizon.
What Makes It Special?
The Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a dramatic backdrop for Northern Lights sightings. Exploring the iconic basalt columns under the glow of the aurora is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle also add to the allure of this wild and rugged coastline.
Best Places in the UK to See Northern Lights
The UK offers several fantastic locations to witness the Northern Lights, with Scotland leading the way thanks to its northern latitude and low levels of light pollution. The upcoming solar maximum this winter will provide the best opportunity in over a decade to catch this natural spectacle. From the Shetland Islands and Isle of Skye to Northumberland and Northern Ireland, these locations offer a unique combination of stunning landscapes and ideal aurora-watching conditions.
Whether you’re an avid stargazer or a traveller seeking a magical experience, this winter’s heightened solar activity promises to deliver unforgettable auroral displays. Pack your warmest clothes, head north, and prepare to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows.
Looking for some more places in the UK to visit this autumn? Take a look at the Top 12 UK Seaside Towns
