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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 nighttime 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 2024.

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

Book Ahead:
3oth November 2024

 

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

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 from £125pp

Beach Hut or Penthouse from £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

Private Booking

Seaview Kings from £165pp

Beach Hut from £175pp 

Penthouse from £175pp 

Prices are based on four people sharing accommodation and dark skies walk.

For additional guests joining a private tour, this would be charged at £145pp in Seaview Kings (based on 2 guests sharing)

The Beach Huts accommodate two children and two adults and the Penthouse accommodates four adults. 

 

Discuss your booking with us today:

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.

How large are the groups on the private bookings?

Private Groups up to 8 are welcome, should your group be larger in size please request this at the time of booking and more information will be asked to provide a bespoke quote.

Why would I book a private group experience?

These are ideal for groups of friends, a family or two families combined looking for their own private experience together. Also, perfect for a landmark moment like a proposal or special occasion such as an anniversary or gift idea.

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, your meeting location along with a kit list will be provided.

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, a full kit list will be provided.

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.

Q: What happens to the Dark Skies Experience in bad weather conditions?

A: The Dark Skies walk will operate in most weathers and is rarely cancelled – The weather will be checked 5-7 days prior with a final decision based on conditions made no later than 48 hours in advance. Should a pre-booked or private tour be cancelled guests will receive a full refund, or have the option depending on availability to move to the next available scheduled date.

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