Watch nature’s firework display this summer

The Perseids Meteor Shower reaches its peak each year around August 12, when the earth passes through the dusty remnants of the comet Swift-Tuttle, creating a celestial fireworks display if the skies remain clear.

The Forest of Bowland is one of a number of Dark Sky Discovery sites dotted around the UK where the absence of streetlights and other sources of light pollution mean the night skies are truly dark.

This means the stars, galaxies and constellations are clearer and during the Perseids Meteor Shower, you’ll see many more shooting stars per hour as even the fainter ones streak across the night skies.

If the skies are cloud-free, head to Gisburn Forest, Slaidburn Village Car Park, Crook o’ Lune Car Park or Beacon Fell Country Park for a chance to see the show. You don’t need binoculars or a telescope – just keep looking up.

The Perseids tend to appear in a certain portion of the sky (called a radiant point) to the northeast. The show starts around 11pm and peaks just before dawn. Click here to find out more.

Aspiring astronomers can celebrate the peak of the Perseid meteor shower on a family-friendly summer session with artist Keith Parkinson.

During the session Keith will explore a variety of media and approaches to creating night sky pictures. These may include charcoal, pastels, chalk and paint in an experimental approach to mark making, using music to aid our inspiration. 

Let Keith fire your creativity and go home with some fantastic night-sky themed artwork, either individually or as a family group.

Activities will be suitable for accompanied children of seven years and over, although younger siblings are welcome to come along. £5 per child (Accompanying adults come free.)

Posted
31st July 2025
in News