One event that has caught my eye this month is ‘stargazing for beginners’ at the Galloway Forest Park, which is home to the UK’s first Dark Sky Park.  The skies over Galloway are exceptionally dark because there’s no light pollution from any major cities and towns, which means that conditions are absolutely perfect for some serious star gazing. Amazingly, when conditions are good, the naked eye can see some 7,000 stars and planets and the Milky Way.

There are events held throughout the year, with the next one from 6.30-10pm on Friday, 20 March at Kirroughtree Visitor Centre.  As someone who can only spot Orion’s Belt and who is spoilt by the dark skies in Galloway, I’ve resolved to do something about it.  I think it will be a great mini adventure for the children and me.

If you are also interested in a bit of star spotting, grab your binoculars, a torch, a flask of hot chocolate, stout boots, and don’t forget to wrap up warm.  If you need a place to stay in Dumfries and Galloway – I think I know a cosy cottage or two that will fit the bill – Stables Cottage (sleeps 2-4)  or High Clachan Farmhouse (sleeps 2-8) are still available for that weekend.