Your Guide to Stargazing at Alfriston Cabins, within the South Downs Dark Sky Reserve

November 4, 2025

Imagine a place where the stars aren’t just faint flickers, but a breathtaking, all-encompassing canvas. That place is Alfriston, nestled deep within the South Downs National Park, a designated International Dark Sky Reserve.

Here, the commitment to reducing light pollution means you can experience the cosmos in a way that’s become nearly impossible in most urban areas. In a city, you might see 20 stars; here, you could see as many as 2,000 twinkling above you on a clear night.

Alfriston Cabins is a stargazer’s paradise and you too can stay and experience its magical night skies. High up in the apple orchard is the best view, so a Shepherds Hut break really makes the most of the open space around you.

Our wood fired hot tubs are in the open air, and are available for stays of two nights or more in Robins Retreat Shepherds Hut or our woodland cabins – Badgers Rest and Foxes Hollow. The perfect seat for stargazing and relaxing.

The South Downs National Park was awarded Dark Sky Reserve status to protect one of nature’s most natural wonders. This designation signifies that the area has low light pollution and is committed to preserving its starry nights. We too support the Dark Sky Reserve and have outside downlights that are timed in order to help preserve the beautiful dark skies, our commitment as part of our Dark Skies Welcome. You will also find a stargazing book as a reference point in each of our huts and cabins, a perfect addition to your adventure.

For visitors to Alfriston Cabins, this means a unique opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature and our universe.

  • See the Milky Way: On a clear, moonless night, the Milky Way, our own galaxy, is often visible as a faint ribbon of light stretching across the sky.
  • Spot Planets and Constellations: Without the glare of city lights, you can easily identify major constellations, and even spot planets like Saturn and Jupiter with the naked eye or a pair of binoculars.
  • A Sense of Tranquility: Stargazing has a therapeutic quality, reducing stress and fostering a sense of awe and wonder, which is great for mental wellbeing.

To make the most of your Alfriston dark skies adventure:

  1. Check the Forecast and Moon Phase: The best nights are clear, moonless nights. The new moon phase offers the most extended hours of total darkness.
  2. Dress for the Weather: Even in summer, nights can get chilly. Wear warm layers, we have blankets in the cabins and huts and facilities to make yourself a lovely warm drink. Why not sit around the firepit or spend your evening in the wood fired hot tub gazing up at the stars.
  3. Bring a Red-Light Torch: White light can ruin your night vision for up to 30 minutes. A red-light torch helps you see where you’re going while preserving your ability to see the stars. Or even better turn off your torch and gaze up!
  4. Allow Your Eyes to Adjust: Give your eyes at least 20 minutes to fully adapt to the dark.
  5. Download a Star Map App: Apps like SkyView or Star Walk can help you identify constellations and planets in real-time and are great for children and adults alike.

Plan Your Alfriston Stargazing Getaway – Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or just looking for a peaceful escape under a blanket of stars, Alfriston Cabins provides the perfect backdrop. Experience the raw, natural beauty of the night sky and create some truly magical memories.

Don’t just take our word for it, book your stay and enjoy the beauty for yourself!