Little Seed Field is open all year and, as the nights grow longer, winter becomes the perfect season for stargazing. The early sunsets provide ample time to observe the night sky, which is often clearer and crisper during the colder months. England is home to several designated Dark Sky Reserves (Little Seed Field is in one), where the absence of light pollution allows the stars to shine with unparalleled brilliance.

Here at Little Seed Field, on a clear winter night, you can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky, the Andromeda Galaxy, meteor showers AND if you are VERY lucky, the Northern Lights!

The long, quiet winter nights are perfect for introducing yourself or deepening your knowledge of the stars, planets, and galaxies beyond our own…we even offer weekends dedicated to it, with specialists on hand to guide you across the skies. As the stars twinkle above, you might even find yourself feeling more connected to the cosmos and inspired by the mysteries it holds!

Beyond the allure of the night sky, winter landscapes in Yorkshire offer countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Imagine hiking trails, breathing in the crisp, fresh air, wildlife spotting and experiencing the wild, bracing winds of the North before retreating to your cabin for a cuppa by a toasty log fire.

These are our top tips for enjoying a winter break at Little Seed Field:

1. Dress Warmly: LOTS of layers are key. Thermals, a good jacket, gloves, and a hat…the more comfortable you are, the longer you’ll want to stay outside (and maybe bring a hot water bottle to pop in your bed).
2. Bring Binoculars: While the naked eye can see a lot, binoculars or a small telescope can reveal even more details, like the craters on the moon or the rings of Saturn.
3. Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast…if you are star hunting you ideally need a moonless sky, free of clouds!
4. Technology Helps: A stargazing app can help you identify constellations and planets. Winter skies feature some of the most famous constellations, like Orion, Taurus, and Gemini.
5. Bring a torch with a red bulb or red filter: Red light does not interfere with your eyes ability to adjust to the darkness – so you can see where you are going and you can still see the stars!

Winter in Yorkshire offers a unique blend of cosmic wonder and outdoor adventure. Whether you're gazing at the stars or exploring the frosty landscapes, there's a special joy in embracing the season's darkness. So, bundle up and step outside into a wild, winter adventure!