Dark Skies at Wild Meadow

One of Wild Meadow’s most special features appears after dark.

In 2024 Presteigne and Norton became the first community in Wales to be designated as an International Dark Sky Community by DarkSky International.

Here the night sky is protected from unnecessary light pollution - meaning that means that on a clear night you can step outside at Wild Meadow, turn off the lights, look up and see a remarkable number of stars, constellations and planets — and, when conditions are right, the Milky Way stretching across the sky.

For many visitors, it is one of the unexpected pleasures of staying here. There is no need to drive anywhere or join an organised event: simply step outside the cottage or Shepherd’s Hut and look up.

And if you are particularly interested in astronomy, there is an added attraction nearby. The Spaceguard Centre at Knighton is the UK's National Near-Earth Objects Information Centre and a working observatory involved in detecting and monitoring asteroids and comets. Guided visits offer the chance to find out more about the night sky, space and planetary defence.

So whether you are an enthusiastic stargazer or simply enjoy sitting outside on a clear evening, Wild Meadow is a wonderful place to experience the night sky.

And you don't need a fancy camera to capture it — this photograph was taken on a phone!