Whether you’re hoping to witness a spectacular eclipse, photograph the Milky Way or simply spend an evening under a sky full of stars, Midhurst is one of the best places in southern England to begin.

Located within the South Downs National Park, the area benefits from some of Britain’s darkest protected skies. Just a few minutes from the town centre you’ll find peaceful locations where the night sky comes alive with planets, meteor showers, constellations and the changing phases of the Moon.

Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or simply curious, we hope this guide inspires you to look up.

We recommend you explore the Best that the Dark Sky’s have to offer through the South Downs National Park Dark Skies Hub:
Dark Skies Hub – South Downs National Park Authority

THE GREAT SOLAR ECLIPSE & METIOR SHOWER 2026

Wednesday 12 August 2026

Experience one of Britain’s deepest partial solar eclipses from Midhurst

On Wednesday 12 August 2026, people across the UK will witness one of the most impressive astronomical events for many years. From Midhurst, more than 90% of the Sun’s diameter will be eclipsed, creating a spectacular evening sky unlike anything seen since the famous eclipse of 1999.

Better still, the eclipse takes place as the Sun sets over the South Downs, before the evening continues with the peak of the annual Perseid Meteor Shower.

Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or simply looking for a memorable evening with family and friends, Midhurst is a wonderful place to experience this rare event.

Why This Eclipse is Special

Events like this don’t happen very often.

• 1999 – Last major eclipse visible from the UK
• 2026 – Deep partial solar eclipse visible from Midhurst
• 2081 – Next equally good eclipse
• 2090 – Next total solar eclipse visible from the UK

This makes the 2026 eclipse a genuine once-in-a-generation opportunity for many people.

Eclipse Timings for Midhurst

Times may vary slightly depending on your exact location.

Where to Look

The eclipse will take place low in the western sky.

At maximum eclipse, the Sun will be approximately 11° above the horizon — roughly the height of a clenched fist held at arm’s length.

For the best experience, choose a location with a clear, unobstructed view towards the west or west-north-west. Trees, buildings and hills close to the horizon may block your view.

Eclipse Glasses

Watch Safely

Never look directly at the Sun without appropriate eye protection.

Certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses are essential for safely viewing any stage of the eclipse.

Certified Eclipse Glasses Available in Midhurst

Visit Midhurst is pleased to be working with Kamaellis Restaurant, where certified eclipse glasses are available with a qualifying purchase, while stocks last.

Pop into Kamaellis on North Street Midhurst for current availability and purchase details.

A Perfect Evening for Dark Skies

The eclipse is only the beginning.

Later that same evening, the Perseid Meteor Shower reaches its annual peak.

With a new Moon providing exceptionally dark skies, conditions for meteor watching are excellent if the weather is clear.

The Perseids occur every August as Earth passes through a stream of dust left behind by Comet Swift–Tuttle. Under ideal conditions, up to 150 meteors per hour may be visible, with bright streaks often leaving glowing trails across the sky.

If cloud spoils eclipse day, don’t worry — the evenings immediately before and after 12 August are also excellent for watching the Perseids.

Midhurst and the South Downs International Dark Sky Reserve

Midhurst lies on the edge of the South Downs International Dark Sky Reserve.

The Reserve is:

• One of only 27 International Dark Sky Reserves worldwide.
• One of just seven in the United Kingdom.
• The closest International Dark Sky Reserve to around 17 million people living in London and the South East.

Recognised by DarkSky International, the South Downs offers some of the finest night skies in southern England. Whether you’re watching the eclipse, searching for meteors or simply enjoying a star-filled sky, Midhurst is an ideal base for exploring this remarkable landscape after dark.

Suggested Viewing Areas

We recommend choosing any safe location with a clear western horizon.

Midhurst is surrounded by some of the Best Views.

• Iping Common: Iping and Stedham Commons easy walk – South Downs National Park Authority
• Butser Hill: Butser Hill – Go Stargazing
• Older Hill View Point: https://mapcarta.com/W4277137
• Heyshott Down: Heyshott Down, West Sussex, England – 51 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

These sites offer wide open skies and excellent opportunities to enjoy the night sky.

The South Downs National Park also highlights several Dark Sky Discovery Sites:

Local Astronomy Events

Several local astronomy organisations are holding special events to celebrate the eclipse, including:

• South Downs Planetarium (Chichester)
• Sussex Sidewalk Astronomers

Further information can be found on the South Downs National Park Dark Skies Hub.

Viewing Safely

Please remember:

• Use only certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses.
• Never use ordinary sunglasses.
• Never look at the Sun through binoculars, telescopes or cameras unless they are fitted with approved solar filters.
• Children should always be supervised when viewing the eclipse.

Plan Your Visit

Bring:

• Eclipse glasses
• Warm clothing for the evening
• A blanket or chair
• Camera (with appropriate solar filter)
• A sense of wonder!

Open the Visit Midhurst Web App: https://midhurst-events.pages.dev/ and save it to you home screen for more ideas of places to explore, eat, drink, walk and discover.

One Unforgettable Evening

On one remarkable summer evening, Midhurst offers the opportunity to experience:

🌞 One of Britain’s deepest partial solar eclipses

🌅 A beautiful South Downs sunset

☄️ The peak of the Perseid Meteor Shower

✨ All from the edge of one of the world’s recognised International Dark Sky Reserves.

We hope you’ll join us, look up, and enjoy this unforgettable evening in Midhurst.