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12
Aug
The best places to see the solar eclipse from the Harrogate area
One of the most dramatic solar eclipses for three decades will be visible across the UK this week.
On Wednesday evening, our part of the country can expect a 90% eclipse of the sun, reaching its fullest extent at 7.10pm.
Elsewhere in Europe, in Iceland and Mallorca for example, lucky residents will be treated to a full eclipse.
An eclipse happens when the moon passes in front of the sun, blocking its light from reaching Earth. An eclipse can be total, partial or annular, which happens when the moon is further away from Earth and so isn't 'big enough' to completely obscure the sun, leaving a ring of light around the moon instead.
The Stray Ferret spoke to Martin Whipp from the Lime Tree Observatory and Planetarium at Grewelthorpe, near Masham – which cannot host an eclipse viewing due to its obscured view – for the best places in the Harrogate area to see the event from.
He told us:
The best spots are simply those with an unobscured view over the western horizon (i.e. anywhere that usually allows for a good view of the sun setting).
If you're willing to make the journey, Sutton Bank in the North Yorks National Park, as well as Ilkley Moor are both famed for their clear views of the sky.
Closer to home, Clint Bank near Hampsthwaite, Blubberhouses, and the area surrounding South Stainley are all good options. Brimham Rocks might be a particularly clever spot, with low light pollution, and unrivalled views.
Lime Tree Observatory
The eclipse is expected to coincide with a return of 30-degree temperatures, so even if your view is underwhelming, it still offers the opportunity for a fun evening in the warm summer air.
Martin had one very key warning though:
It is very important to remember to not look directly at the sun, and be wary that even sunglasses don't offer full protection.
The last time the UK experienced anything similar was a partial eclipse in March 2025. In August 1999, a total eclipse was visible in Cornwall, south Devon and Alderney, but even that one was partial for the rest of the country. The next total solar eclipse visible in the UK will be in September 2090.
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