The Perseids meteor shower is a wonder of our cosmos. They are known for leaving persistent 'trains' (trails) which can last for a few seconds or maybe up to a minute. They are associated with the comet Swift–Tuttle. And the meteors are called the Perseids because the point from which they appear to come from lies in the constellation Perseus.
Come with friends and family and join Dartmoor's Daughter and charity Dartmoor Skies for a gentle guided walk into the moor; and expert talks about Dartmoor (history, geology, myths & legends) and the origin of the meteor shower; and to feast your eyes on this once a year event. There will also be telescopes set up to view the night skies. Jupiter and Saturn will be visible too, so they'll be great for people to see and enjoy between meteor spotting.
Tickets
FEE: £12 per adult. £5 under 18. Family discount 10% for 2 adults with 2 children.
Dartmoor Skies is a charity that aims to inspire people about astronomy and science. 50% of the event profits go towards their funding and equipment.
Further Information
TIME: Meet 9pm for 9.15pm start. We will finish approximately 11.30pm. (Peak viewing is after midnight so you are welcome to stay longer but will be responsible for making your own way back and for your own safety.)
MEETING PLACE: Swallerton Gate car park (under Hound Tor). Grid Ref SX739792. The car park is approximately 2 1/2 miles west of Haytor Vale on the B3387 - from this direction, turn right to Hound Tor & Manaton. Continue for 1 1/2 mile (approx.) to Swallerton Gate Cross - the car park is signposted with a 'P' to the right.
Nearest postcode for SatNav is TQ13 9XG but we don't recommend following a sat nav as it rarely takes you to an exact Dartmoor location. There are no public toilets here. Car sharing is encouraged please.
LEVEL: EASY - approximately 1 mile total. The walk is a gentle uphill path to a tor where we will sit together for a few hours to enjoy talks and viewing the meteor shower.
WHAT TO WEAR/BRING: Dartmoor is always a degree or more colder than the lowlands, so please wear/bring LOTS of warm layers (a blanket or sleeping bag is great for extra cosiness), hat, gloves, and bring waterproofs (whatever the forecast); sturdy walking boots; drink and snacks (a flask of warm tea can be good on a cold night); and head/torch with red filter (or a rear bicycle lamp works well); and something to sit on (helpful to have a layer between you and the cold, damp ground)
WET WEATHER/CLOUDY SKIES PLAN: If the weather is unfavourable, we will contact you the evening before or Saturday morning to let you know that we will be going to a local indoor venue instead. We have planned talks, night skies presentations, and a quiz. Then if the weather clears during our evening, we can still go out into the venue garden with our telescopes. Please keep an eye on your emails (and spam folder) just in case...
Cancellation: The evening will go ahead whatever the weather. Sorry no refunds if you change your mind about attending.
Risk: The walk and evening is at your own risk. No liability accepted for accidents or incidents in the gardens.
We have received the ‘Good to Go’ Industry Standard Certificate. If you have a cold, flu, cough, temperature or are diagnosed with COVID-19 please do not join a walk if you have booked. You will be able to transfer your booking to another walk.