At Covill Cottages, we are proud to support the Yorkshire Dales National Park’s commitment to protecting and celebrating the wonder of our dark skies. Located in the heart of beautiful Nidderdale—an International Dark Sky Reserve—our cottages offer guests a chance to experience the night sky at its very best.
As a Dark Sky Friendly Business, we actively promote responsible stargazing, reduce light pollution, and provide our guests with everything they need to enjoy unforgettable nights beneath the stars.
Our Commitment to Dark Skies
We are based within the wider influence area of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and are registered as a dark sky friendly holiday cottage. To help reduce light pollution:
- We monitor and minimise lighting that could affect wildlife or neighbouring properties.
- We use low-level, warm-temperature outdoor lighting.
- Outdoor lights operate on timers and remain off unless needed.
- Curtains are provided to reduce indoor light spill.
Respecting the Community and Other Guests
We have carefully considered how stargazing activities may affect our neighbours and guests.
We ask visitors to be mindful when returning late at night and to keep voices low.
We are also flexible with late returns, and we will consider late check-out requests whenever possible.
A Checklist for Guests
We recommend that you take:
- Warm clothing
- Suitable footwear
- A flask or warm drink
- A phone or tablet with a star-mapping app (optional)- see suggestion below
- A red-light torch (or to make one with red film or varnish)
Information & Resources
There is a small grassed area on the opposite side of the lane to Covill Cottages next to the wooden bridge which provides a perfect viewing spot. Alternatively you could drive up to Scar House Reservoir where there is a car park and picnic benches with excellent viewing opportunities. Also the following are useful resources-
- Printed star charts
- Yorkshire Dales National Park Dark Skies Leaflet
- Stellarium– a stargazing and astronomy app for your phone. Point it at the sky and it will name the planets
Sharing the Dark Sky Friendly Commitment
By choosing to stay at Covill Cottages, you are helping protect one of the UK’s most special natural wonders—the darkness of the night sky. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the awe-inspiring beauty of the stars above Nidderdale. It is the perfect place to stay and enjoy The Yorkshire Dales Dark Sky