This UK nature reserve has just been named one of the world's best for stargazing

When it comes to stargazing you might not think the UK has the best spots to offer.

But a scenic corner in southern England has been awarded the prestigious International Dark-Sky Reserve title.

It’s the first entire AONB in the UK to be awarded the title by the International Dark-Sky Association - a US-based body that celebrates "exceptionally starry skies" and aims to stop light pollution.

Cranborne Chase is a great stargazing spot

Adam Dalton, an International Dark-Sky Places Program Manager at the association, said, “Cranborne Chase has the largest central area of darkness of any International Dark-Sky Reserve in the UK.

"It is a huge area of land at almost 1000 sq kms, and less than two hours from London and Bristol.”

Linda Nunn, director of Cranborne Chase AONB, added, "We think of our beautiful landscapes as being on the ground, but 50% of our landscape is above our heads, in the sky.

“The quality of our night sky is so important and this isn’t just for the benefit of astronomers.

‘There are huge benefits for nocturnal wildlife, our own human health and wellbeing, for education, tourism and for energy saving. We’re thrilled to be playing our part.”

Other areas in theUKto feature in the dark sky reserves list include National Park Exmoor, Brecon Beacons National Park, Moore’s Reserve and Snowdonia National Park.

Further afield, Rhon and Westhavelland in Germany also have the stargazing title, alongside Pic du Midi in France and Mont-Megantic in Canada.

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Lizzie Thomson is a regular contributor to woman&home, and also contributes to Metro.co.uk, Ideal Home, Culture Trip, and Evening Standard, covering all things lifestyle.