This program of events is designed to give both visitors and locals an opportunity to view the diverse wonders of the night sky through our 8″ and 10″ reflecting telescopes. However our Scottish weather does not always allow us an unobstructed view of the starry heavens!
If it is cloudy on the night there will be an indoor presentation on the same subject. A follow up outdoor telescope session will be arranged for the first clear night after the event.
We also put on monthly observing evenings from August to April in Tomintoul and Glenlivet which are advertised via our Facebook page. These are inevitably announced at short notice once we have a firm weather forecast!
Interested in a personalised experience? We also offer small group stargazing and telescope sessions by request for individuals, couples, families and small groups. If you’ve ever wanted to go stargazing with an experienced astronomer this is your opportunity. If you would like us to tailor an experience for you, please email us at mailto:secretary@cag.cairngormsdarkskypark.org or get in touch through our Facebook page.
Fancy a self-guided experience? Stargazing equipment is also available to borrow by prior arrangement from the Discovery Centre in Tomintoul. Local accommodation providers can also offer advice and assistance on local stargazing locations and have access to maps and equipment also. Planetarium apps are another great tool to help you learn about the night sky.
January 2025
Friday, January 17th, Discovery Centre, 5:00pm
Saturn and Venus in Aquarius
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and members of Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust to learn about the planets Saturn and Venus in the constellation of Aquarius. We’ll also be looking at prominent winter stars and constellations and will share resources for improving your celestial knowledge. Please meet at the Discovery Centre at 5:00pm. We’ll then be walking a short distance down to a suitable viewing location in a group with red head torches that will help your vision adapt to the darkness.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and one of the most northerly in the world.
As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold January conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy footwear, lots of layers, along with gloves and a hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees. Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
Sunday, January 12th, Discovery Centre, 6:30pm
Moon and Mars in Gemini
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust for an evening telescope taster session. We’ll be looking at the Moon and Mars in the constellation of Gemini. We’ll also be looking at prominent winter stars and constellations and will share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and one of the most northerly in the world. Please meet at the Discovery Centre at 6:30pm. We’ll then be walking a short distance down to a suitable viewing location in a group with red head torches that will help your vision adapt to the darkness.
As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold January conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy footwear, lots of layers, along with gloves and a hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees. Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
Friday, January 10th, Discovery Centre, 5:30pm
Seven Sisters, Stars, and the Moon
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust for an afternoon telescope taster session. We’ll be looking at the Moon, the Pleiades or Seven Sisters, and Jupiter. We’ll also be looking for stars and constellations and will share resources for improving your celestial knowledge. Please meet at the Discovery Centre at 5:30pm. We’ll then be walking a short distance down to a suitable viewing location in a group with red head torches that will help your vision adapt to the darkness.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold January conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy footwear, lots of layers, along with gloves and a hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees. Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
Friday, January 3rd, Discovery Centre, 4:00pm
Quadrantids Meteor Shower Viewing
Join us for the Quadrantids Meteor Shower and a Dark Sky Tour!
Come join us on Friday, Jan 3rd, 2025 at 16:00 GMT in Tomintoul for an afternoon of meteor spotting and stargazing.
The peak of the meteor shower in early January is promising in 2024 as it occurs a few days after the New Moon. During the maximum, you may see up to 60 meteors an hour on a nearly moonless sky. Quadrantids are known for their bright fireball meteors produing larger explosions of light and colour, which makes them a perfect target for astrophotography. Venus and Saturn will also be in the sky near to the moon.
Join us for a memorable afternoon. Please meet at the Discovery Centre at 4:00pm. We’ll then be walking a short distance down to a suitable viewing location in a group with red head torches that will help your vision adapt to the darkness.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
December 2024
Thursday, December 19th, Discovery Centre, 5:00pm
Festive Family Stargazing and Night Walk 🎅
Join us for festive family stargazing on Thursday, December 19th, 2024. Get closer to the stars in the highest village in the Highlands! We’ll have tea, hot chocolate and festive treats in the Discovery Centre before going outside to look for stars, planets, and constellations. Santa hats, bells, and reindeer noses and antlers welcome!
Toilets are available in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre.
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session on the 20th.
As we will be outside in December, please dress extra warmly for cold and changeable weather. Please also wear appropriate shoes for wet, and wintry conditions.
Suggested donation £5 through Eventbrite or in cash on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/festive-family-stargazing-and-night-walk-tickets-1057888255249
Tuesday, December 10th, Discovery Centre, 7:00pm
Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn in the Square 🪐
Have you ever really seen the Moon? Join Cairngorms Astronomy Group and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust in The Square, Tomintoul for an all ages telescope session on Tuesday, December 10th, 2024. Jupiter and Saturn are also in the sky at the moment and make excellent telescope targets.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
Toilets are available in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre.
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session in the days following.
As we will be outside in December in the highest village in the Scottish Highlands, please dress warmly for cold and changeable weather. Please also wear appropriate shoes for wet, and wintry conditions.
Suggested donation £5 through Eventbrite or in cash on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/moon-jupiter-and-saturn-in-the-square-tickets-1057021572979
Saturday, December 7th, Discovery Centre, 7:00pm
Moon in the Square and Jupiter at opposition telescope session
Have you ever really seen the Moon? Join Cairngorms Astronomy Group and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust in The Square, Tomintoul for an all ages telescope moon viewing session on Saturday, December 7th, 2024. The first quarter Moon is a great time to view and learn about the moon. Jupiter is also at opposition, which means that Jupiter is directly opposite the sun in the solar system from Earth’s perspective. This alignment makes Jupiter appear larger and brighter than usual, and is the best time to observe it. Saturn will also be in the sky and makes a superb telescope target. We’ll meet at Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre at 43 The Square, Tomintoul at 6:30pm.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
Toilets are available in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre.
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session in the days following.
As we will be outside in December in the highest village in the Scottish Highlands, please dress warmly for cold and changeable weather. Please also wear appropriate shoes for wet, and wintry conditions.
Suggested donation £5 through Eventbrite or in cash on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/moon-in-the-square-tickets-1048842665647
Thursday, December 5th, Glenlivet Hall, 7:00pm
Introduction to the Winter Sky
Would you like to learn more about the night sky and constellations? Join us at the Glenlivet Hall on Thursday, December 5th. We’ll have tea, biscuits, and a brief presentation in the hall before going outside for a short stroll in a group to look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy footwear, lots of layers, along with gloves and a hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Toilets are available in the hall.
Suggested donation of £5 through Eventbrite or on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
Supported by the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/introduction-to-the-winter-sky-glenlivet-tickets-1057967943599
Wednesday, December 4th, Field of Hope, 3:15pm
Crescent Moon below Venus
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust at The Field of Hope Dark Sky Discovery site in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park for an afternoon telescope taster session. We’ll be looking at the thin crescent moon and at the planet Venus. We’ll also be looking for stars and constellations and will share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold December conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy footwear, lots of layers, along with gloves and a hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees. Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre.
Tickets are free for this event.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/crescent-moon-below-venus-tickets-1058278632879
November 2024
Sunday, November 10th, Discovery Centre, 6:30pm
Moon in the Square
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust in The Square, Tomintoul on Sunday, November 10th at 18:30 for an all ages telescope moon viewing session. The first quarter moon on the 10th is a great time to view and learn about the moon. Saturn is also conveniently located next to the moon on the 10th for a nice celestial pairing. Please meet outside the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre at 43 The Square, Tomintoul.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
Toilets are available in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre.
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session in the days following.
As we will be outside in November, please dress appropriately for wintry conditions and changeable weather.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/moon-in-the-square-telescope-session-tickets-1048671754447
Tuesday, November 5th, Discovery Centre, 6:00pm
Southern Taurid Meteor Shower and Dark Sky Tour 💫
Join us for the Southern Taurid Meteor Shower and a Dark Sky Tour!
Come join members of the Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul and Glenlivet Development Trust on Tuesday, Nov 05 2024 at 18:00 GMT in Tomintoul for a night of meteor spotting and stargazing.
The peak of the meteor shower on November 4-5 is promising in 2024 as it occurs a few days after the New Moon. During the main maximum, you may see up to 10 meteors an hour on a nearly moonless sky. Taurid meteors tend to be slow and occasionally produce fireballs, which makes them a perfect target for astrophotography.
Join us for a memorable evening under the stars. Please meet at the Discovery Centre at 6:00pm. We’ll then be walking a short distance down to the Field of Hope in a group with red head torches that will help your vision adapt to the darkness.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/southern-taurid-meteor-shower-and-dark-sky-tour-tickets-1042877222847
Friday, November 1st, 2024, Discovery Centre, 6:00pm
Introduction to the Autumn and Winter Sky
Would you like to learn more about the night sky and constellations? Get closer to the stars in the highest village in the Highlands! Join us in Tomintoul on Friday, November 1st. We’ll have a briefing in the Discovery Centre before walking down to a nearby stargazing site in a group to look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold autumn conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy footwear, lots of layers, along with gloves and a hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees. Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre.
Suggested donation of £5 through Eventbrite or on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
October 2024
Night Walk & Stargazing at Scalan
Saturday, October 26th, 2024, 6:00pm
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Have you ever been night walking on Glenlivet Estate? Come and join the dark-side! Join us at The Carrachs Dark Sky Discovery site in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park for a night walk and stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge. After dusk the Braes of Glenlivet are an exciting place to walk and explore, and with eyes wide and senses alert you can experience the Estate like never before. Use you senses to listen for nocturnal animals and birds and marvel at the night sky. Please meet at the Carrachs at 6:00pm.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on site but parking is plentiful at the Carrachs car park. As we will be outside in October, please dress appropriately for cool autumn conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy waterproof shoes, lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable.
In the event of inclement weather attendees will be emailed with updates on the day.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
Supported by the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/night-walk-stargazing-at-scalan-tickets-1043755610127
Monday, October 14th, 2024, 5:15pm
Comet Tsuchinshan in Tomintoul
Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS near peak brightness and visible after sunset
Join us at the Discovery Centre in Tomintoul on 14th October 2024 at 17:15 PM to watch Comet Tsuchinshan light up the night sky!
The comet will be close to Earth on October 14th with good visibility in the northern hemisphere. Assuming clear skies we hope to be able to see it in the telescope at the Field of Hope. As comets are notoriously unpredictable, there’s no way to know at this time exactly how bright this comet will become. The comet is named after the observatories that discovered it. In this instance it was discovered by the Tsuchinshan or “Purple Mountain” Observatory in Nanjing, China on January 9th, 2023 and by the ATLAS telescope in South Africa on February 22nd, 2023.
There will be brief presentation at the Discovery Centre in Tomintoul before we head in a group down to the Field of Hope.
We’ll have the telescope on hand for comet spotting.
Public toilets are available in Tomintoul at Tomnabat Lane, opposite the public carpark.
Please dress appropriately for cool autumn conditions and changeable weather.
Attendees will be emailed with weather updates and information on the day.
Tickets are free for this event.
Donations are also appreciated and can be made on the night if you wish.
Thanks for supporting our Dark Sky Park!
Night Walk & Stargazing at Scalan
Friday, October 4th, 2024, 7:45pm
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Have you ever been night walking on Glenlivet Estate? Come and join the dark-side! Join us at The Carrachs Dark Sky Discovery site in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park for a night walk and stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge. After dusk the Braes of Glenlivet are an exciting place to walk and explore, and with eyes wide and senses alert you can experience the Estate like never before. Use you senses to listen for nocturnal animals and birds and marvel at the night sky. Please meet at the Carrachs at 7:45pm.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on site but parking is plentiful at the Carrachs car park. As we will be outside in October, please dress appropriately for cool autumn conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy waterproof shoes, lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable.
In the event of inclement weather attendees will be emailed with updates on the day.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
Supported by the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/night-walk-stargazing-at-scalan-tickets-1013816250697
September 2024
Moon at the Field of Hope, Tomintoul – Telescope Session
Friday, September 20th, 2024, 9:00pm
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and members of the Tomintoul and Glenlivet Dark Sky Park Group at the Field of Hope, Tomintoul for a telescope moon viewing session. The waning gibbous moon on the 20th is a great time to view the moon and also provides good conditions for viewing Messier objects. Please meet at the Field of Hope from 9:00pm.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
Public toilets are available in Tomintoul at Tomnabat Lane, opposite the public carpark.
As we will be outside in September, please dress appropriately for cool autumn conditions and changeable weather.
In the event of inclement weather attendees will be emailed with updates on the day.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/moon-at-the-field-of-hope-tomintoul-tickets-1013875628297
August 2024
Stargazing Night Walk along the Old Military Road
Friday, August 30th, 2024 &
Saturday, August 31st, 2024
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Have you ever been night walking on Glenlivet Estate? Come and join the dark-side! Join us for a guided walk along the Old Military Road in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park. September is a great time of year to view the Milky Way and we’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the UK.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on site but parking is available at the Glenlivet Estate Office. Please dress appropriately for late summer conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy waterproof shoes, lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable.
In the event of inclement weather attendees will be emailed with updates on the day.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-night-walk-along-the-old-military-road-tickets-980320804917
Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing
Monday, August 12th, 2024
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Group and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust for a night of meteor viewing at Tomintoul’s Field of Hope.
The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most dramatic things to see in the night sky between July and August and in 2024 is active between 17 July and 24 August. This year the peak falls on the night of the 12th and before dawn on 13th August. Join members of the Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul and Glenlivet Development Trust at the Dark Sky Discovery site to experience this special celestial phenomena.
May 2024
Moon in the Square
Tuesday, May 14th, 2024
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust in The Square, Tomintoul for an all ages telescope moon viewing session. The first quarter moon on the 14th is a great time to view and learn about the moon. We’ll meet at Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre at 43 The Square, Tomintoul.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
Toilets are available in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre.
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session in the days following.
As we will be outside in late evening, please dress appropriately for cool conditions and changeable weather.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
April 2024
Moon in the Square
Tuesday, April 14th, 2024
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust in The Square, Tomintoul for an all ages telescope moon viewing session. The first quarter moon on the 16th is a great time to view and learn about the moon. We’ll meet at Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre at 43 The Square, Tomintoul.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
Toilets are available in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre.
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session in the days following.
As we will be outside in April, please dress appropriately for cool spring conditions and changeable weather.
Suggested donation £5 on the day helps to support the Dark Sky Park.
Stargazing at Tomintoul
Saturday, April 6th, 2024
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us at the Discovery Centre in Tomintoul for an all ages stargazing session. We’ll have a briefing in the Discovery Centre before walking down to a nearby stargazing site in a group to look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre and limited amenities are available in Tomintoul. As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cool spring conditions and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-in-tomintoul-tickets-858889480557
Night Walk & Stargazing at Scalan
Friday, April 5th, 2024
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Have you ever been night walking on Glenlivet Estate? Come and join the dark-side! Join us at The Carrachs Dark Sky Discovery site in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park for a night walk and stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge. After dusk the Braes of Glenlivet are an exciting place to walk and explore, and with eyes wide and senses alert you can experience the Estate like never before. Use you senses to listen for nocturnal animals and birds and marvel at the night sky.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on site but parking is plentiful at the Carrachs car park. As we will be outside in April, please dress appropriately for cool spring conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy waterproof shoes, lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable.
In the event of inclement weather attendees will be emailed with updates on the day.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
Supported by the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/night-walk-stargazing-at-scalan-tickets-858941596437
Stargazing at Tomintoul
Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us at the Discovery Centre in Tomintoul for an all ages stargazing session. We’ll have a briefing in the Discovery Centre before walking down to a nearby stargazing site in a group to look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre and limited amenities are available in Tomintoul. As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cool spring conditions and changeable weather. Sturdy footwear, lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-in-tomintoul-tickets-858884535767
March 2024
Moon in the Square
Sunday, March 17th, 2024, 7:30pm
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust in The Square, Tomintoul for an all ages telescope moon viewing session. The first quarter moon on the 17th is a great time to view and learn about the moon. We’ll meet at Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre at 43 The Square, Tomintoul for an indoor presentation before stepping outside.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
Toilets are available in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre.
As we will be outside in March, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Please also wear appropriate shoes for wet and wintry conditions.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/moon-in-the-square-tickets-864670963127
Stargazing at Tomintoul
Saturday, March 9th, 2024
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us at the Discovery Centre in Tomintoul for an all ages stargazing session. We’ll have a briefing in the Discovery Centre before walking down to a nearby stargazing site in a group to look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre and limited amenities are available in Tomintoul. As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-in-tomintoul-tickets-825378658787
Stargazing and star stories at Inveraven
Wednesday, March 6th, 2024
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Group and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust for a night of introductory stargazing and star stories during the new moon at Inveraven Church & Pictish Stones. Where do we get our stories of the night sky? What did the Celts see in the night sky? Come along to find out more and have a go trying out our community telescope.
Access to Inveraven Church is off the A95 about half a mile north of the entrance to Ballindalloch Castle, and can be found by following the brown tourist sign directing visitors down the single track road to the Inveraven Pictish Stones.
Parking is available at the bottom of the drive before you arrive at the church or in front of the church building. We will be meeting in the foyer inside the church building before walking up to field above to access the telescope.
As we will be outside, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Please also wear shoes appropriate for outdoor, wet, and muddy conditions.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support Dark Sky activities and work to combat light pollution.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-and-star-stories-at-inveraven-tickets-825323553967
Stargazing at Tomintoul
Saturday, March 2nd, 2024
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us at the Discovery Centre in Tomintoul for an all ages stargazing session. We’ll have a briefing in the Discovery Centre before walking down to a nearby stargazing site in a group to look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Toilets are available in the Discovery Centre and limited amenities are available in Tomintoul. Please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-in-tomintoul-tickets-825279642627
February 2024
Leap Year Night Walk & Stargazing at Scalan
Thursday, February 29th, 2024, The Carrachs car park, 19:00
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Have you ever been night walking on Glenlivet Estate? Come and join the dark-side! Join us at The Carrachs Dark Sky Discovery site in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park for a small group (up to 8) night walk and stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge. After dusk the Braes of Glenlivet are an exciting place to walk and explore, and with eyes wide and senses alert you can experience the Estate like never before. Use you senses to listen for nocturnal animals and birds and marvel at the night sky.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on site but parking is plentiful. As we will be outside in February, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions.
In the event of inclement weather attendees will be emailed with updates on the day.
Suggested donation £10 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
Supported by the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/leap-year-night-walk-stargazing-at-scalan-tickets-791997685397
Moon in the Square Telescope Session
Friday, February 16th, 2024, Tomintoul Square and Discovery Centre, 19:00
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and TGDT in The Square, Tomintoul for an all ages telescope moon viewing session. The first quarter moon on the 16th is a great time to view and learn about the moon.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session on the 17th of February.
As we will be outside in February, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Please also wear appropriate shoes for wet, and wintry conditions.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/moon-in-the-square-telescope-session-tickets-791204833957
Moon at the School, Tomintoul
Tuesday, February 13th, 2024
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust at the playing field at Tomintoul Primary School for an all ages telescope moon viewing session. The waxing crescent moon makes a great telescope target. Meet outside the school and library at 18:30 or drop by to try out the community telescope at the school playing field.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket.
As we will be outside in February, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. A hat and gloves will make your experience much more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate shoes for wet and wintry conditions.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/moon-at-the-school-tomintoul-tickets-835987690687
Stargazing at Glenlivet
Saturday, February 10th, 2024, Blairfindy Moor, 19:00
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us in at Blairfindy Moor Dark Sky Discovery site in Glenlivet for a small group stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
As we will be outside in February, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £10 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/stargazing-at-glenlivet-tickets-791226809687
Stargazing in Tomintoul
Friday, February 9th, 2024, Tomintoul, 19:00
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us in Tomintoul for an all ages stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on site and parking is limited. As we will be outside in February, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/stargazing-in-tomintoul-tickets-791286337737
Stargazing in Tomintoul
Friday, February 2nd, 2024, Tomintoul, 19:00
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us in Tomintoul for an all ages stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Toilets are available in Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre. As we will be outside in February, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/stargazing-in-tomintoul-tickets-791273880477
January 2024
Moon in the Square Telescope Session
Friday, January 19th, 2024, Tomintoul Square and Discovery Centre, 19:00
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Club and TGDT in The Square, Tomintoul for an all ages telescope moon viewing session. The first quarter moon on the 19th rises mid-morning so it’s a great time to view and learn about the moon. On the 19th it will be in the vicinity of Uranus and the terminator will be close to the large craters Ptolemaeus, Alphonsus & Arzachel.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. Not only does this remote area have stunning dark skies but it also has easy access allowing everyone to enjoy a night sky brimming with stars.
We’ll have the Celestron telescope and a smartphone bracket on the night that will allow you to take the moon home in your pocket!
If the weather isn’t suitable on the day, we’ll endeavour to run an alternative session on the 20th of January.
As we will be outside in January, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Please also wear appropriate shoes for wet, and wintry conditions.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/moon-in-the-square-telescope-session-tickets-773689866217
Stargazing in Tomintoul
Saturday, January 13th, 2024, Field of Hope, Tomintoul, 19:00
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us at the Field of Hope Dark Sky Discovery site in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park for an all ages stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world.
Toilets and amenities are available in Tomintoul. As we will be outside in January, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions. If conditions are unsuitable on the day of the event the organiser will email attendees.
Suggested donation £5 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-in-tomintoul-tickets-773828280217
Stargazing at Glenlivet
Wednesday, January 10th, 2024, Blairfindy Moor, Glenlivet 19:00 – 20:30
Would you like to learn more about the night sky? Join us at Glenlivet’s Blairfindy Moor Dark Sky Discovery site in the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park for a small group (up to 6) stargazing session. We’ll look at stars, planets, and constellations and share resources for improving your celestial knowledge.
The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area is one of the best places in the Cairngorms National Park to discover the wonders of the night sky. It is Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park and the most northerly in the world. Blairfindy Moor is a great spot for stargazers and aurora hunters and is located just above The Glenlivet Distillery.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on site and parking is limited. As we will be outside in January, please dress appropriately for cold and changeable weather. Lots of layers, along with gloves and a hat will make your stargazing experience more enjoyable. Please also wear appropriate footwear for wet and wintry conditions.
Suggested donation £10 on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stargazing-at-glenlivet-tickets-773734108547
December 2023
New Moon stargazing and star stories at Inveraven
Tuesday 12/12/2023, Inveraven Church & Pictish Stones, Ballindalloch, from 19:00 – 20:30
Join Cairngorms Astronomy Group and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust for a night of introductory stargazing and star stories during the new moon at Inveraven Church & Pictish Stones. Where do we get our stories of the night sky? What did the Celts see in the night sky? Come along to find out more and if the weather permits have a go trying out our community telescope. This session also takes place close to the peak of the Geminid Meteor Shower, so there will be the opportunity to learn about this phenomena as well.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-moon-stargazing-and-star-stories-at-inveraven-tickets-734726114587
November 2023
Stories & Stars with Nana Tomova
Sunday 12/11/2023, Braes of Glenlivet Hall, from 4:00pm
Join us for soup, stories, and stargazing in the Braes of Glenlivet.
Storyteller Nana Tomova will enchant us with seasonal and celestial stories from 4:30pm and again at 5:30 pm. Nana is an acclaimed Traditional Oral Storyteller and a nature connection guide. She loves stories of the wild, and her favourite place to tell them is out on the land. She is the creator of the Story Apothecary Podcast, where she dispenses stories as medicine. If you would like to attend the storytelling, please arrive a few minutes before each session. If the weather is good the storytelling mat take place outside around a campfire otherwise they will be shared in the hall.
As day turns to night, the Cairngorms Astronomy Group will host telescope and stargazing sessions for all ages and abilities from 18:45. Come along for an introduction to the constellations, enjoy a laser guided sky tour or try out our community telescope. If it is cloudy on the night there will be an indoor presentation in the hall.
All events are free and are on a drop-in basis.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stories-stars-with-nana-tomova-tickets-749067500057