Bristol, UK Stargazing Forecast

Bristol, UK (51.45°, -2.59°) · Updated 11:07 UTC
36
Poor
high confidence ⓘ
high · Forecast lead time

Based on how far ahead tonight is, forecasts are most reliable within 24–48 hours.

Confidence reflects how trustworthy the forecast is, it doesn't change the score.

Marginal, check the window
BEST 00:00–02:00 (2h)
Partly cloudy with some clear gaps with moderate moon interference. Delta Aquariids meteor shower peaks tonight (ZHR ~25).
Sunset
20:01
Sunrise
04:32
Usable Hours
2/4
Moon
99%
Visible Planets
♄ Saturn29° SE
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Hour-by-hour scores · Planet rise/set & visibility · ISS & satellite passes · Moon detail · Full score breakdown · Aurora & observer profiles

Stargazing in Bristol, UK

Bristol's Bortle 6–7 skies are offset by easy access to the Mendip Hills (20 minutes south) and Exmoor National Park, a designated International Dark Sky Reserve roughly an hour away. Exmoor's Bortle 2–3 conditions are among the best in England. The city's western position catches Atlantic clearances early, and the Severn estuary provides an open southern horizon. Spring and autumn high-pressure systems bring the best conditions.

Bristol, UK Stargazing FAQ

Where is the best dark sky site near Bristol?∨
Exmoor National Park, about an hour away, is an International Dark Sky Reserve with Bortle 2-3 conditions — among the best in England. The Mendip Hills are a closer option, just 20 minutes south.
Can you see the Milky Way from Exmoor?∨
Yes — Exmoor's Dark Sky Reserve status makes it one of the best places in southern England to see the Milky Way. County Gate and Holdstone Hill are popular viewpoints.
When is the best time to stargaze near Bristol?∨
Autumn and winter provide the longest nights. High-pressure systems bring the clearest conditions. Atlantic clearances after frontal systems pass can bring superb transparency.

Stargazing guides

Is Tonight Good for Stargazing?

The answer depends on five things you can check right now.

Light Pollution & the Bortle Scale

How dark is your sky — and what difference does it make?

What Planets Are Visible Tonight?

Real visibility data for all 7 naked-eye and telescope planets, calculated for your location.

Best Stargazing Locations in the UK

Certified dark sky sites, hidden gems, and how to find the darkest skies near you.
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