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What we do International Dark Sky Places

Galloway Forest Park

About

Galloway Forest Park, established in 1947, is located in southern Scotland in the Dumfries and Galloway council area and is the UK’s largest forest park at 78,000 hectares. Approximately 20 percent of the park has been set aside as a central “core” for preservation of dark skies and wildlife, with a policy of no permanent illumination. The park is one of the very best places to observe the night sky in the UK, and its management recognizes the dark skies as a valuable resource and is committed to protecting and preserving them. The remoteness and sparse population of the area combined with the newly adopted lighting management plan ensure that Galloway Forest Park’s skies will remain pristine for generations to come.

Designated

2009

Category

Dark Sky Park

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Address

Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
Google Maps

Contact

Benjamin Askew
Website

Land Area

774 km2

Documents

Application
Announcement
Annual Reports

Weather

Click here to find ideal environmental conditions for viewing the night sky at Galloway Forest Park (55.05022,-4.26667). Don’t forget to plan your trip during the new moon and astronomical twilight to enhance the viewing experience!