Those looking for a romantic date less predictable than a meal out or the cinema are in luck, as one Northumberland destination has been named one of the best in the UK for stargazing ahead of Valentine's Day.
A study found that Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island was the 3rd best romantic stargazing destination in the country, beaten only by Tresco in the Scilly Isles and Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye.
While it's good news for Holy Island, it's surprising that nowhere else in Northumberland was listed - as much of the county's National Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park, thanks to having the 'most pristine dark skies' in the country.
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The study used the Bortle scale to measure light pollution; a SQM (Sky Quality Meter) to give a reading of luminance of the night sky; and lastly, a measurement of artificial brightness - which measures sky brightness against natural brightness.
Holy Island scored extremely high across the three categories, with an overall score of 95.26. And in recent weeks, the Northern Lights have dazzled stargazers over the tidal island.
For those who are considering heading to Lindisfarne Castle for a bit of Valentine's Day stargazing, do remember to check the tide times ahead of travelling and crossing the causeway - as people do still get stranded. You can check the safe crossing times here.
For those who live or prefer to travel inland, Northumberland Dark Skies Festival starts on Saturday February 12, with events and workshops at five observatories across the country and at The Sill Visitor Centre by Hadrian's Wall.
The top romantic locations for Stargazing are:
1. Tresco, Scilly Isles
2. Glen Brittle, Isle of Skye
3. Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland/Loch Lomond
5. Llanddwyn Island, Wales
6. Tintagel Castle, Cornwall
7. Portmeirion, Wales
8. Multiple locations
The research was commissioned by The Dozy Owl.
