On 31 May 2026, a new stargazing experience opened its doors in the heart of Northumberland National Park in the United Kingdom. The Kielder Observatory, the Twice Brewed Inn, and actor Robson Green have joined forces in order to bring a new state-of-the-art location for the public to enjoy.
Since 2013, Northumberland National Park – which covers approximately a quarter of the county – has officially been designated as a Dark Sky Park. This means it is considered a conservation area that implements good outdoor lighting and provides dark sky programs, thus offering excellent conditions for both wildlife and stargazing fanatics.
Located in the heart of Northumberland National Park, Kielder Observatory has been offering stargazing experiences for over fifteen years. After the observatory first partnered with the Twice Brewed Inn near Hadrian’s Wall in 2025, they have now launched an entirely new stargazing experience at the pub together with Northumberland-born actor and presenter Robson Green, who gave his name to the ‘Robson’s Reflector’, the Inn’s brand-new reflective telescope.
“There’s something incredibly special about the skies in Northumberland. They make you stop, reflect and feel connected to something much bigger than yourself. Places like Kielder Observatory at Twice Brewed Inn help people experience that wonder first-hand, while also shining a light on this incredible part of the country. I’m delighted to be part of the launch,” Robson Green said.
The Kielder Observatory and the Twice Brewed Inn will function as two distinct but complementary experiences. Visitors will find a 30-seat planetarium and state-of-the-art telescopes at the pub, as well as “great food, award-winning ales, warm hospitality, and luxury accommodation.”
“Kielder Observatory has always been about creating moments of inspiration, wonder and reflection through the night sky, while making astronomy accessible to everyone. This new location allows us to reach even more people – from families and tourists to schools and communities who may never otherwise have the opportunity to engage with astronomy in this way – and create a different kind of experience combining our incredible team with the food, drink, and warm welcome of Twice Brewed Inn right next door. Northumberland’s dark skies are one of the region’s greatest natural assets, and we’re incredibly proud to continue building experiences that support tourism, education and inspiration,” said Kielder Observatory CEO Leigh Venus.
From June 2026 onwards, the pub offers a range of stargazing-themed events. From Celestial Events over Universe Full of Stars to Journey into the Cosmos and Aurora at the Inn:
Just like the night sky, the theme of the events will also change depending on the season.
Visitors can book their favourite option(s) through the Twice Brewed Inn’s website. Tickets for adults generally amount to £34.50 (€39.87) for the stargazing alone, while adding supper will bring the total price for the evening to £62 (€71.65). Every event also supports Kielder Observatory’s charitable mission, dedicated to making astronomy accessible to all.
