We are fortunate that there is minimal light pollution around The Old Vicarage, with efficient downward directed LED street lighting, meaning that our garden is an ideal point for star gazing and exploring the night skies.  We regularly see the International Space Station, meteor showers and have a good extensive view of much of the sky.  Binoculars - and of course hot drinks - are always available.  The picture on the right, taken by ourselves, shows the skies above The Old Vicarage.

We are also within easy reach of the Elan Valley which has international Dark Skies status - meaning that over 45,000 acres is accessible for viewing the the stars and planets.  As well as the Elan Valley, the road between Llanidloes and Machynlleth around Llyn Clywedog also has some great locations for stargazing.  In fact across the Cambrian Mountains, there are several dedicated locations which are protected against light pollution, making viewing the skies a real pleasure. 

In particular, the Elan Valley offers a regular programme across the year of special events focussed on allowing both experienced astronomers and those without any experience to discover the wonders of the night skies.  In addition a dedicated guide is available to dark skies across the area and this is available to dowload by clicking on this link .

The video alongside shows what you can discover when you come and experience the Dark Skies in the Cambrian Mountains of Mid-Wales.

Our thanks to Dafydd Wyn Morgan at Cambrian Mountans for the use of the picture at the top of this page.