UK StarParty Dalby Forest StarFest 2025

There’s something magical about standing under a truly dark sky, far from city lights, where the Milky Way stretches across the heavens like a glowing river and the stars seem close enough to touch. For over two decades, StarFest in Dalby Forest has been the place where that magic becomes reality for UK astronomers. Whether you're a seasoned observer hauling a trunk full of gear or someone who simply loves looking up, this gathering is about more than telescopes — it's about shared wonder, learning, and making friends who understand why you stayed up until 3am to catch that fleeting meteor.

UK StarParty Dalby Forest StarFest 2025: A Dark Sky Haven for UK Astronomers

The Scarborough and Ryedale Astronomical Society’s “StarFest” is one of the UK’s longest-running and most beloved annual star parties, taking place in the scenic Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire. For over 20 years, this event has attracted amateur astronomers from across the United Kingdom, drawn to the area’s exceptionally dark skies and welcoming community of stargazers. StarFest 2025 is set to continue that tradition, offering three full nights of stargazing, astrophotography, lectures, trade stands, competitions, and the kind of social atmosphere that makes this gathering a highlight of the UK astronomy calendar.

Dalby Forest, the venue for StarFest, is located in the heart of North Yorkshire and holds the prestigious Milky Way class Dark Sky Discovery status, awarded in 2013 by the UK Dark Sky Discovery program. It is part of the wider North Yorkshire Moors Dark Sky Reserve, making it an ideal location for observing deep sky objects, planetary detail, and even wide-field astrophotography projects. The region's commitment to preserving its dark skies has made Dalby Forest a magnet for astronomers, especially those living in more light-polluted parts of the country who crave a chance to observe under pristine conditions.

The official site for the event is Adderstone Field within Dalby Forest, which offers an expansive, well-drained open space ideal for camping, setting up telescopes, and socializing. While the camping facilities are intentionally basic, designed to preserve the natural environment and minimize light pollution, they provide everything essential for a comfortable astronomy-focused weekend.

Event Dates and Overview

StarFest 2025 will run from Thursday, August 28th to Monday, September 1st, with the main stargazing activities scheduled for the nights of Friday through Sunday. For those who wish to arrive early and set up in advance, Thursday arrivals are allowed starting after 12pm, but this must be arranged and paid for beforehand.

The event officially kicks off on Friday, August 29th, with a welcome gathering in the marquee, accompanied by wine and nibbles. This informal event gives attendees a chance to meet fellow astronomers, reconnect with old friends, and set the tone for a weekend focused on astronomy, education, and community.

What to Expect at StarFest 2025

StarFest is not just a casual stargazing event—it is a gathering of dedicated amateur astronomers, astronomical societies, and space enthusiasts. The weekend offers structured talks, workshops, and activities, but also allows ample time for independent observing and astrophotography under Dalby's renowned dark skies.

A major highlight of the weekend is the lineup of guest speakers. For 2025, attendees can look forward to a talk from Stuart Atkinson, a well-known member of the Eddington Astronomical Society. His presentation, titled "Bierstadt on Barsoom," is expected to combine artistic and astronomical themes, likely touching on Mars exploration through both scientific and imaginative lenses.

Saturday will feature trade stands set up around the marquee, giving attendees the opportunity to browse astronomy gear, accessories, and educational materials. Vendors typically offer everything from telescopes and eyepieces to books, astro-imaging equipment, and helpful gadgets for beginners and experts alike.

The popular rocket building competition returns, providing fun for both adults and children. This hands-on activity has become a beloved tradition, with prizes awarded in both categories. Weather permitting, participants can launch their creations, adding a playful, science-focused activity to the weekend.

Sunday evening caps off the official festivities with the always-entertaining Astro Pub Quiz, a friendly yet competitive event designed to test attendees' knowledge of astronomy, space exploration, and related trivia. Prizes and bragging rights await those with the sharpest cosmic knowledge.

Camping and Facilities

While Adderstone Field provides a fantastic location for astronomy, it is essential to note that the site offers minimal amenities to maintain the integrity of the dark sky environment. There are no hard standings for vehicles, electrical hook-ups, or shower facilities, so attendees should come prepared for basic camping.

The organizers do provide essential conveniences, including:

• Private portable toilets for the duration of the event
• A facility for disposing of chemical toilet waste from caravans
• A hot water urn switched on each morning in the marquee for that essential first cup of tea or coffee
• A water bowser available for boiling water
   

Qualified First Aiders are present on-site throughout the weekend, ensuring safety and support for all attendees.

Booking and Registration

As with previous years, attendance at StarFest is by pre-booking only. No walk-ins or unregistered individuals will be admitted to the event. Space is limited, and the event is popular, so early booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

The registration fees for StarFest 2025 are as follows:

Camping (Friday to Sunday):

• Adults: £55 per person
• Children (5-15 years): £10 per child
• Under 5’s: Free
   

Camping with Early Arrival (Thursday to Sunday):

• Adults: £60 per person
• Children (5-15 years): £10 per child
• Under 5’s: Free
   

Visiting Site Only (No camping, entry and exit by car):

• Adults: £10 per person, per night
• Children (5-15 years): £5 for the entire event
• Under 5’s: Free
   

Scarborough and Ryedale Astronomical Society (SARAS) Members:

• Receive a 50% discount on registration fees (excluding the visiting site option and vehicle toll charges)
   

Due to the automated barrier system in Dalby Forest, an additional £5 vehicle toll charge applies per vehicle, regardless of camping status. This fee grants unrestricted access to and from the forest for the entire event duration.

Registrations close on Sunday, August 24th, 2025. Booking forms and further event details are available on the Scarborough & Ryedale Astronomical Society website: www.scarbastro.co.uk/starfest-2025.

Community and Atmosphere

While StarFest is primarily aimed at experienced amateur astronomers and astronomy society members, the organizers emphasize that beginners and newcomers are always welcome. Many first-time attendees with little or no experience have found the event to be an excellent learning opportunity and often return year after year.

The atmosphere at StarFest is friendly, inclusive, and supportive. Whether you are an experienced deep-sky observer, a keen astrophotographer, or someone new to the hobby eager to learn, there will be plenty of people willing to offer advice, share views through their telescopes, and chat about the night sky.

As past years have shown, StarFest offers not just the chance to observe under some of the UK’s darkest skies, but also to be part of a vibrant, welcoming community of people who share a passion for astronomy.

Final thoughts

For those seeking an escape from light pollution, a chance to immerse themselves in astronomy, and the opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts, StarFest 2025 is an event not to be missed. With its location in Dalby Forest’s Dark Sky Reserve, engaging talks, astrophotography opportunities, and friendly atmosphere, it offers an ideal summer astronomy experience in the UK.

Early booking is essential, and attendees should be prepared for basic camping conditions to fully appreciate the breathtaking night skies that Dalby Forest provides. Whether you're a returning guest or considering your first star party, StarFest promises an unforgettable weekend of astronomy, learning, and camaraderie.

The Eastern Veil Nebula (NGC 6992) imaged by Andy Hatfield at Adderstone Field during StarFest 2022

Quick Reference for StarFest 2025:

• Event Name: Scarborough & Ryedale Astronomical Society Annual StarFest
• Location: Adderstone Field, Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire, UK
• Dates:
• Early Arrival: From 12pm Thursday, 28th August 2025
• Official Start: Friday, 29th August 2025
• Event Ends: Sunday night, 31st August 2025
• Site Must be Vacated: By 12pm Monday, 1st September 2025
• Registration Deadline: Sunday, 24th August 2025
• Guest Speaker: Stuart Atkinson, “Bierstadt on Barsoom” talk
• Events Include:
• Stargazing and astrophotography each night
• Trade stands (Saturday)
• Rocket building competition (adult and child categories)
• Astro Pub Quiz (Sunday evening)
• Talks and workshops
• Prices:
• Adults (camping, Friday–Sunday): £55
• Adults (camping, Thursday–Sunday): £60
• Children (5-15, camping): £10
• Under 5’s: Free
• Visiting site only (per adult, per night): £10
• Visiting site only (children 5-15, whole event): £5
• Vehicle Toll Charge: £5 per vehicle
• SARAS Member Discount: 50% off camping fees
• Facilities:
• Portable toilets
• Chemical toilet disposal
• Hot water urn in marquee
• Water bowser for boiling water
• No electrical hook-ups or showers
• Notes:
• Pre-booking only, no walk-ins
• Limited spaces, book early
• First-timers welcome
   

At the end of the weekend, when the telescopes are packed away, the campsite quiets down, and the last of the tea has been poured, it’s hard not to feel a little reluctant to leave Dalby Forest behind. StarFest isn’t just another astronomy event — it’s a rare chance to unplug, share stories, swap stargazing tips, and spend a few nights under one of the best skies in the country. Whether you come away with new skills, new friends, or simply new memories, chances are, you’ll already be thinking about next year’s return trip before you even hit the road home.

Register for the UK StarParty Dalby Forest StarFest 2025