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Sometimes the most memorable holiday experiences happen when you stop doing things altogether.

Imagine wrapping up warmly, stepping outside into the crisp evening air and looking upwards. Above you, a vast night sky filled with stars. Around you, the people you most enjoy spending time with.

No tickets, no complicated arrangements and absolutely no need to rush.

Just a rather wonderful reminder that some of life's simplest pleasures are also its most extraordinary.

Discover the Wye Valley After Dark

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are celebrated for their beautiful countryside, ancient woodlands and dramatic river scenery.

But there's another side to this landscape that's easy to overlook.

After dark, away from the brighter lights of towns and villages, parts of the region offer wonderful opportunities to enjoy the night sky.

The Wye Valley National Landscape recognises its dark skies as an important part of the area's natural character, while the Forest of Dean has several recognised stargazing locations.

And you don't need to be an astronomer to appreciate them.

Sometimes simply standing together beneath the stars is quite enough.

A Different Kind of Group Activity

One of the lovely things about stargazing is that it can appeal to several generations.

Children can search for familiar constellations, grandparents might remember learning about the night sky at school, and someone in the group will almost certainly claim to have spotted a shooting star.

Whether anyone else believes them is another matter!

Bring a flask of hot chocolate, wrap up in warm coats and enjoy a little friendly competition identifying what you can see.

A pair of binoculars can add to the experience, although they're certainly not essential.

For the best views, choose a safe location away from bright lights and allow your eyes time to adjust to the darkness. British Astronomical Association

Star gazing at High Cloud Farm & Barn

Stargazing Around the Forest of Dean

For those interested in exploring further, the region has some beautiful locations associated with dark-sky viewing.

Symonds Yat Rock, New Fancy Viewpoint and May Hill are among the places highlighted by the local tourism organisation for their potential stargazing opportunities.Staying at High Cloud Farm gives you direct access to huge open skies perfect for night gazing.

However, always check access arrangements, parking and safety before planning an evening visit. Some viewpoints and car parks may not be accessible after dark.

Alternatively, you might find that the most enjoyable place to appreciate the stars is somewhere much closer to your holiday accommodation.

The Perfect Ending to a Day Together

After an evening outdoors, there's something especially inviting about returning to a warm, welcoming holiday house.

Perhaps everyone gathers around the dining table for a late supper. Someone puts the kettle on, another opens a bottle of wine, and the conversation turns to what you've just seen.

Before long, stories are being shared and tomorrow's plans are taking shape.

At Big House Holiday Lets, our spacious self-catering holiday houses provide wonderful settings for families, friends and organised groups to enjoy time together.

Whether you're planning an autumn reunion, a winter escape or a special gathering with old friends, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean offer plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories.

And sometimes, the most magical moments happen when you simply look up.

Stunnung views from The Manor on the Monnow

Discover our beautiful large holiday houses and start planning your next group getaway.