For countless individuals, embarking on a remarkable journey to witness the extraordinary ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights remains a cherished dream. However, one need not venture all the way to the Arctic to transform this dream into reality. UK and Scotland offer a captivating and mesmerising opportunity to immerse oneself in this awe-inspiring natural spectacle.
Here are the top 10 places in the UK and Scotland to see the Northern Lights, with tips on when and how to make your dream come true.
The Perfect Time to Chase the Northern Lights
To have a chance to see the enchanting Aurora Borealis, it is essential to have frosty, unobstructed nights with minimal light pollution and increased solar activity. Extending your waking hours into the late hours of the night can greatly increase your chances of seeing this breathtaking phenomenon.
Pro Tips: The preferred time for viewing is during the local midnight hours (22:00-02:00). However, it is advisable to remain cautious and alert for any unexpected occurrences. Look north, but the Northern Lights can show up anywhere.
Top 10 Locations in the UK and Scotland to Marvel at the Northern Lights
North West Scotland
Remote and sparsely populated, this area is perfect for Northern Lights enthusiasts. Torridon village offers pristine aurora views over Loch Maree, and the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, mainland Britain's westernmost point, provides vast night sky vistas with a charming lighthouse.
The Closest Campsites: Reraig Caravan and Camping and Badrallach Campsite, Bothy and Holiday
Best Time: March - April and September - October
The Nearest Airport: Aberdeen International Airport
Transfer Options:
- Bus and Taxi
- Private Transfer: Book a private transfer with AirportTransfer.com to ensure a punctual pickup and drop off for your Northern Lights excursions in North West Scotland.
Edinburgh
Although not ideal because of the city lights, Edinburgh's charm lies in its natural beauty and architecture. Catch the mesmerising Northern Lights at Calton Hill, which offers a secluded view. Explore Blackford Hill and Arthur's Seat for more opportunities to witness this natural spectacle.
The Closest Campsites: Mortonhall Caravan and Camping Park and Edinburgh Club Campsite
Best Time: Late February and early March
The Nearest Airport: Edinburgh International Airport
Transfer Options:
- Bus, Tram and Taxi
- Private Transfer: In order to ensure the safe transport of your valuable photographic equipment and warm clothing, you should consider using a private transfer service.
Isle of Skye
To catch the Northern Lights in Scotland, don't miss the stunning Isle of Skye. Its low light pollution offers top stargazing spots. Visit the Trotternish Peninsula, including Quiraing and Old Man of Storr, for the best chance. Fairy Pools are great for uninterrupted views. Explore Talisker Beach, Neist Point, and Glendale for more aurora sightings.
The Closest Campsites: Skeabost View Pods Skye and Dunvegan Camping Pods
Best Time: October to March
The Nearest Airport: Glasgow International Airport
Transfer Options:
- Flying
- Private Transfer: After landing on Benbecula Island, private transfers provide a seamless journey directly to your Northern Lights viewing destination.
Image by Daniel Tonks via Unsplash.
Shetland Islands
High-latitude Shetland offers reliable Northern Lights views. Eshaness and St Ninian's Beach provide secluded spots away from city lights. As the closest point to the North Pole in Britain, Shetland is a premier destination for the captivating Northern Lights.
The Closest Campsites: Skeld Caravan Site and Levenwick Campsite
Best Time: Between mid-October and mid-March
The Nearest Airport: Lerwick/Tingwall Apt Airport
Transfer Options:
- Bus and Taxi
- Private Transfer: Minimise the stress of planning and navigating your Northern Lights adventure with private transfers.
Outer Hebrides
Venture to the Outer Hebrides for an Aurora Borealis show on Lewis, Harris, Uist, and Barra. These islands also offer views of celestial wonders like the Orion Nebula, Milky Way, and Andromeda galaxy. Beyond stargazing, explore rugged cliffs, white sands, and nature's beauty through hiking, birdwatching, and beachcombing.
The Closest Campsites: Balranald Hebridean Holidays and Lickisto Blackhouse Camping
Best Time: From September to April
The Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport
Transfer Options:
- Ferry and Flights
- Private Cruise Transfer: Enjoy the cruise transfers and expertise of drivers who navigate the most efficient routes to the Ullapool ferry terminal with no unnecessary stops.
Image by Caroline Hall via Unsplash.
Lake District
Famous for natural beauty, the Lake District is also a top spot in England for Northern Lights. It's pursuing Dark Sky Reserve status. Though rarer than in Scotland, the lakeside scenery enhances the spectacle. Key viewpoints: Grizedale Forest, Wasdale, Langdale Valley, and Derwentwater.
The Closest Campsites: Keswick Club Site and Derwentwater Club Site
Best Time: Between October and March
The Nearest Airport: Manchester Airport
Transfer Options:
- Train, Bus, and Taxi
- Private Transfer: Even on freezing Northern Lights nights, keep warm and comfortable in your vehicle.
Northumberland
Northumberland's National Park boasts the UK's darkest skies as an International Dark Sky Park. It's a reliable spot for Northern Lights, especially after strong geomagnetic storms. Coastal areas, with their Outstanding Natural Beauty status, offer clearer aurora views.
The Closest Campsites: Bellingham Club Site and Haltwhistle Club Site
Best Time: Between October and March
The Nearest Airport: Newcastle (NCL) Airport
Transfer Options:
- Bus and Taxi
- Private Transfer: You can rely on our drivers, who have a wealth of knowledge of the local roads and the Northumberland region.
Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales, part of the UK's largest Dark Sky Reserve along with the North York Moors, is ideal for stargazing. Experience the Dark Skies Festival in February and explore four Dark Sky Discovery sites, including Buckden National Park Car Park, Tan Hill Inn, Hawes, and Malham Visitor Centres. On clear nights, you can admire thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and even spot the International Space Station.
The Closest Campsites: Orcaber Farm Caravan and Camping Park and Eden Heights Glamping
Best Time: March to April and September to October
The Nearest Airport: Leeds-Bradford International Airport
Transfer Options:
- Bus and Taxi
- Private Transfer: Get the latest updates and valuable tips about the Northern Lights activity directly from your designated driver.
Cairngorms
Cairngorms, the UK's largest National Park, is an ideal location for Northern Lights viewing. Home to Ben Nevis, the UK's tallest peak, and designated as an International Dark Sky Park, the Glenlivet Estate within the park boasts incredibly dark skies.
The Closest Campsites: Tarland by Deeside Club Site
Best Time: October to March
The Nearest Airport: Aberdeen Airport
Transfer Options:
- Train or Bus
- Private Transfer: Leave the inconvenience of crowded public transport and noisy groups behind when you set off to see the amazing Northern Lights.
Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park, home to Dunkery Beacon, its highest point, provides awe-inspiring celestial displays. Being Europe's inaugural International Dark Sky Reserve, it's ideal for Northern Lights enthusiasts, particularly on clear, wintry nights with reduced humidity disruptions.
The Closest Campsite: Lynton Club Site
Best Time: A cold, crisp winter night
The Nearest Airport: Exeter Airport
Transfer Options:
- Bus or Taxi
- Private Transfer: Avoid the complexities of public transportation schedules and routes when chasing the Northern Lights with private transfers.
Image by Paul Lincoln via Unsplash.
AirportTransfer.com - Your Gateway to the Northern Lights in the UK and Scotland
Dreamed of the mesmerising Northern Lights? The UK and Scotland offer some of the best locations to witness the Northern Lights. From the remote Scottish Highlands to the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary phenomenon
Planning a trip to see this awe-inspiring natural display can be daunting due to complex public transportation. At AirportTransfer.com, we offer convenient private transfers for a seamless journey to witness the Northern Lights in the UK and Scotland.
Bus Transfers
Are you planning a trip to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights? With our ski bus transfers, you can experience the enchantment of the UK and Scotland's northern lights in the most comfortable and convenient way possible with your friends or groups.