Stargazing Date Ideas in Cornwall

Bedruthan Steps, just moments along the coast from us, has been awarded Dark Sky Discovery status making this beautiful stretch of coast the perfect place for gazing up at the stars.

There's something about lying under the night sky that strips away all the noise. No phones, no screens—just you, your person and endless stars overhead. All those distant suns make your worries feel small while making the person beside you feel infinitely more important. It costs nothing, requires no reservations and gives you hours to just be together. In a world that never stops moving, that's become pretty revolutionary.

★ Know your lunar cycles. The skies are darkest before a full moon. Moonless nights are best for spotting meteors and enjoying the magnificence of the Milky Way.

★ Find the best location: if you can’t get to Bedruthan Steps or a Dark Sky Discovery area, try to get into a rural location, away from city lights. Take a drive into the countryside to find a spot as secluded as possible.

★ Be prepared: pack a picnic, a blanket and groundsheet if it is wet, a few cushions for extra comfort and plenty of warm clothes. For true romance a bottle of wine or flask of hot chocolate is a must.

★ Binoculars are handy but optional. Up to 4,000 stars can be seen by the naked eye, or borrow our Swarovski binoculars if you like.

★ Make sure you have plenty of time. Locating constellations can be hard, but persevere. Astronomy teaches patience, humility and calm.

★ Bring a map of the night sky. You don’t need any astronomical knowledge to enjoy stargazing, but hunting for constellations can be a big part of your romantic adventure. Find a free, printable night sky map here. Alternatively, you can have some fun making up your own constellations.