A deep partial solar eclipse will be visible across the Cotswolds tomorrow evening, Wednesday 12 August, with more than 90 per cent of the Sun covered by the Moon at its maximum.
https://www.staycotswold.com/ has put together a guide to the best spots to watch the event safely, from elevated viewpoints to parks and pub beer gardens – perfect for those toasting the spectacular solar event.
The eclipse begins shortly after 6.15pm and reaches its maximum just after 7pm, before ending shortly after 8pm. Later that night, the Perseid meteor shower also reaches its peak, and with the new moon keeping the sky dark, conditions for spotting shooting stars will be excellent.
Best places to watch the solar eclipse in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds’ high ground, low light pollution levels and open countryside make it well suited to eclipse watching.
Here are StayCotswold’s suggestions on the best vantage points:
Elevated viewpoints: Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, and Broadway Tower both offer wide, uninterrupted views to the western horizon.
Parks and open spaces: Cirencester Park and Batsford Arboretum offer plenty of open ground away from streetlights and traffic.
Beer gardens: many Cotswold pubs have gardens with a clear westerly aspect, making them a relaxed option for watching the eclipse with a drink in hand before staying on after dark for the meteor shower.
From your cottage: most StayCotswold properties have gardens, terraces or elevated positions that are perfectly placed for eclipse watching without leaving your home from home.
Eclipse safety advice
The eclipse must never be viewed directly, and ordinary sunglasses do not offer sufficient protection. Proper eclipse glasses must meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard. Alternatively, the image can be projected safely using a kitchen colander or two pieces of card.
“The Cotswolds is one of the best places in the country to watch an event like this, with so many hills, parks and pub gardens giving a clear view of the horizon. Just make sure it’s viewed safely.” Said Tracy Archer, owner director at StayCotswold.
