Noctourism in Cornwall - the Latest Tourism Trend!

The word 'noctourism' has suddenly started coming up in conversations, articles and radio shows here in Cornwall and now across the country! I've no idea who created it, but it's attracting interest from many who haven't previously entertained the idea of a dark sky holiday, or in fact stargazing as a pursuit. So what is it? It has been described as tourism at night, which lends itself perfectly to the astronomy holidays we offer here at Eddington Lodge! While many keen astronomers invest a large amount of time and money in visiting dark sky sites across the UK, I hadn't quite realised how unheard of this was to most people. 

So why is noctourism, and specifically astronomy holidays, such a worthwhile pursuit? Well firstly, just look up on the next clear night in an area free of light pollution and the skies will speak for themselves. The beauty of the night sky is awe-inspiring, original and completely natural. Whether you have a super posh telescope, a pair of binoculars or just your eyes to gaze at the wonders of the night sky, you won't be disappointed. It puts things into perspective somehow, brings us back to nature and allows us to experience the natural beauty of the earth, before we stepped in and started polluting it with our man-made stuff.

Astronomy is also for everyone. It can be free of charge and you can enjoy the night sky at your own leisure, educating both yourself and your family along the way - as long as you're happy to have a couple of flexible bedtimes for your kids! It is also extremely sociable if you want it to be! There are numerous astronomy clubs across the country crying out for new members, and the existing members are often happy to share both their extensive knowledge and equipment during meetings.

So why take an astronomy holiday? Here at Eddington Lodge we are blessed with stunning dark skies, advanced equipment with which to observe and photograph the night sky and awesome accommodation to stay in. The need to set up telescopes as soon as a clear patch arrives is eliminated as our observation pods have everything set up for you, and Jonathan's extensive knowledge of the night sky provides an incredible experience for all of our guests. Courses run throughout your stay and we are well-placed to be adaptable to your individual needs and goals for your holiday. Our location in Cornwall also means that there is plenty to occupy all of our guests during the day, which is a huge bonus! 

So whether it's an anniversary, birthday celebration, family trip or a way of trying something new, we can assure you that noctourism is absolutely something to try out, and we would love you to experience it here at Eddington Lodge. So what are you waiting for? Book your stargazing holiday now - we look forward to welcoming you here soon!