Dark Skies

Dark Skies Experience

The Winter months have arrived and offer the perfect opportunity to explore the Sussex Dark Skies combined with a hotel stay on the Sussex Coast.

Immerse yourselves into the peace and stillness of the dark sky with a gentle night-time adventure walk, listen out for the nocturnal animals and learn fascinating insights into the natural history and geology of the area, with a chance to learn or hone your navigation skills and test your astronomical knowledge. With little in the way of light pollution, you will enjoy expansive dark skies with views into the national park, Sussex villages, local landmarks and light-filtered coastline.

Proudly working with South Downs-based adventure company Pied A Terre Adventures, you will be guided by their expert leader on this nighttime adventure. The South Downs National Park is a beacon for the natural world here in Sussex. In 2016, it was accredited as an International Dark Sky Reserve. Offering our guests a real chance for a uniquely Sussex nature-based experience this winter, culminating with the Dark Skies Festival in February 2025.

Make a moment this winter to experience something new and truly unique:

Pre Scheduled Dates

^25th January

15^th February

22^nd February

Dark Skies Festival 10-18^th February

In addition to these dates, private bookings are available for you and your guests looking for an exclusive experience, with dates available from January to February.

Dark Skies Experience & Stay

Arrival from 2pm

Fish & Chip Dinner Served at 5pm in Tamarisk Restaurant

Travel to the location point in the South Downs to meet your leader at 7pm

2 hour Dark Sky Immersion Experience

Return to the hotel to the comfort of the bar or your accommodation where refreshments await.

Hearty Sussex breakfast the following morning.

Pre Scheduled Dates

Seaview King £125pp

Beach Hut or Penthouse £225 per person

Based on two People Sharing

Includes 1-night stay at the Beachcroft Hotel for two people with breakfast and a ‘Seaside Fish and Chips’ dinner, and a scheduled shared Dark Sky Walk with PAT Adventures

Call or email us today to book:

01243 827 142

[email protected]

Frequently Ask Questions:

How large are the groups on your pre-scheduled dates?

The guide can take up to a maximum of 12 people.

I’d like to join an existing group, which option is best for me?

Book on one of the pre-scheduled dates where you will be with other guests in a group environment.

Where is the meeting point with the guide?

The tours leave from the Bignor or Midhurst area; a 30 minute / 15 miles scenic drive from the Beachcroft Hotel. Exact locations will be provided one booked.

Is car parking available in the national park?

Yes, car parking will be available and is free. Information on this will be provided once you have confirmed your booking.

Are children welcome?

Children are welcome on this walk. They will need to be able to walk consistently over undulating terrain for 2 hours and in the dark without issue, and to be considerate to the wildlife.  Of course, they must be accompanied. We recommend Dark Skies for children aged 10 plus.

Do I need to bring a Torch?

Yes please bring a torch-  one per person, head torches or handheld torches are recommended.

Will it be really dark up there?

Yes, there are no artificial lights, so it will be dark, and this is the magic of the experience.

What should I wear on the Dark Skies experience?

A kit list will be provided, please wear suitable attire and dress appropriately for a winter’s day on the Downs. Good walking shoes, layers, waterproofs, hat, gloves – ensure you are warm and comfortable.

What happens if it rains?

If it’s slightly raining or light rain, we will continue with our activities. If it’s very heavy then its no fun for anyone, so we would either offer a place on another day or we would refund if a new date couldn’t be offered.

What happens if it’s windy?

We continue with our activities in wind classified as Yellow warning, if this changes to an Amber warning then activities will be rescheduled as above.

Any other questions you may have please do not hesitate to ask us by emailing [email protected] or calling us on 01243 827142.