Shropshire Star

Stargazing Pods open at Alton Towers

Look up at the fascinating night sky with Alton Tower's new stargazing pods.

Published
Mark Thompson attends the launch of the Alton Towers Resort’s New Stargazing Pods

The new theme park accommodation - located just moments away from the rides and attractions - aim to encourage families to embrace the Great British outdoors, reconnect with nature, and feel inspired by the world around them.

New research by Alton Towers found that one in four British people do not regularly gaze at the stars with half admitting they are unable to identify the Milky Way.

Despite this, 86 per cent of Brits believe spending time in the fresh air or looking up at the stars can help them relax and over three quarters say it makes them feel in awe of the universe.

The first guests to enjoy the new Alton Towers Resort Stargazing Pods, which officially opened over the weekend
Mark Thompson attends the launch of the Alton Towers Resort’s New Stargazing Pods

Mark Thompson has more than 20 years of experience in observational astronomy and is a strong advocate of getting families outside looking up at the night sky. He champions the benefits of looking up at the night sky and shares his top 5 tips to get us all gazing up:

He said: "Get the gear – the secret is to use a torch that gives off a dim red light. Get a star chart too – stargazing apps can show you the night sky from your location, any time of year, day or night.

"Look Up – armed with your torch and star chart you can look up and start learning your way around the night sky. And join a stargazing gang – a fun way to boost your new hobby and make lots of new friends. Also buy a telescope or binoculars – take it to the next level for the best way to view the moon and stars."

The first guests to enjoy the new Alton Towers Resort Stargazing Pods, which officially opened over the weekend
The first guests to enjoy the new Alton Towers Resort Stargazing Pods, which officially opened over the weekend

Priced from just £88 for up to four people, the Stargazing Pods offer a unique, great value experience that all the family can enjoy.