Dark Skies & Stargazing

Elan Valley is a popular visitor attraction for astronomers and stargazers.

In 2015, the Elan Valley Estate achieved International Dark Sky Park status and became the first privately owned but publicly accessible park in the world to do so.

The estate was granted silver-tier status by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) which means the entire 45,000 acres of the Elan Valley are protected against light pollution. Dark Skies protections benefit those who live and work in Elan Valley as well as visitors. The status also provides for the sanctuary of wildlife and nature which can be found by day or night across the estate. Reducing light pollution also reduces energy use and cost.