AN ICONIC Yorkshire pub is getting ready to welcome stargazers who want to get uninterrupted views of the night sky.
The Tan Hill Inn at Swaledale near Richmond, is the highest watering hole in the UK, standing at 1732 ft above sea level.
But the historic pub also has a range of other unique features on offer to visitors – the opportunity to enjoy a place with virtually no light pollution, so providing the perfect place to view dark skies.
The Yorkshire Dales are regarded nationally as one of the best areas in the country for stargazing and are designated an International Dark Sky Reserve – “ an area of public/private land possessing 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.”
And now – as the nights start to get darker – Tan Hill Inn is preparing to welcome those who want to enjoy the stunning views – and may even be lucky enough to view the Northern Lights.
“We get so many people who come to the pub between September and March because they want to enjoy the spectacle of the skies,” said Andrew Hields, owner of The Tan Hill Inn.
“We have seen some amazing displays and just being to enjoy looking at the stars with hardly any light pollution is an incredible experience.
“And at the same time, if it gets too cold people can also come inside the pub and enjoy our open fire, great food and fantastic selection of drinks.”
Travellers can couple their viewing of the night sky with an overnight stay in one of the inn’s rooms, which includes a bunkhouse which sleeps eight, suitable for a group of family and friends.
Tan Hill also has two glamping domes which offer a king size bed, TV and are heated – and the perfect way to look at the skies.
For further information or to book a stay or to dine and star gaze, visit www.tanhillinn.com