Northern lights set to be the best & brightest in 20 years this year!

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 24th Jan 2024

Scientists expect to see the peak of solar activity this year, with the brightest northern lights in a decade.

This year, according to experts we’re experiencing ‘Solar Maximum’ - a regular period of extensive sun activity during the 11-year solar cycle.

During the solar maximum there will be an increased number of ‘sunspots’, which means more solar wind charged particles entering the atmosphere.

Therefore, the colourful aurora displays also known as Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) are likely to be more frequent and intense.

What is the best month to see the Northern Lights?

The general rule is - the darker the background, the more magnificent the aurora lights will be – so winter is your best bet.

So if you’re visiting popular spots like northern Norway, Iceland, Greenland & Finland, you’ll need to plan your visit between the start of September until the middle of April.

How to see the Northern Lights in Northern Ireland 👇

You’re most likely to see Aurora Borealis in Ireland between the months of October and April.

The most common places to see the Northern Lights in Northern Ireland are the north coast in areas with little to no light pollution, like the Causeway Coastal Route.

Check out NI's popular star-gazing spots 👇

Darvagh Forest, Cookstown

Davagh Forest Park is the first place in Northern Ireland to be accredited as an IDA International Dark Sky Park. It is one of only 85 places around the globe to hold this distinction.

Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge site is classified as one of the best places in Northern Ireland for stargazing. Periodically Carrick-a-Rede hosts special star gazing evenings for astronomy fans.


The entire The Antrim coast road offers points where the aurora sometimes makes an impactful show at night.

Mourne Mountains, Newcastle

There's no need to worry about finding a decent spot for your car or struggling with crowds to see the stars. The Mournes offer miles and miles of stunning scenery, hiking trails and nocturnal skies.


This is truly the perfect spot, void of any light pollution, so pitch up a tent and fall asleep staring at the twinkling sky above.

Oxford Island, Craigavon

Nestled on the banks of Lough Neagh sits Oxford Island! Fun fact: the area has hosted BBC Stargazing Live and has been named a top Dark Sky Discovery Site.

Delamont Country Park, Downpatrick

Another tranquil spot, this time situated on the shores of Strangford Lough.


This beautiful 200-acre park hosts monthly events here with the Irish Astro Association. These sessions cater for everyone no matter their experience, and all ages are welcome.

Divis Mountain, Belfast

The closest stargazing spot to Belfast has to be Divis Mountain, that towers over the city 478m high. The views overlooking the capital city are spectacular but cast your eyes to the skies and you'll still have plenty to see.


Th elevation is so high here, towards the top of the mountain sees very little light pollution from the city below.

Benone Beach, Limavady

Stretching from Lough Foyle and Magilligan Point to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, enjoy seven miles of golden sands and unparalleled views across to Donegal. There's something so special gazing at the night sky with the sound of waves in the distance.

Read more:

17 picture-perfect walks to enjoy in Northern Ireland

The BIGGEST gigs & tours coming to Belfast & Dublin in 2024

10 dog-friendly adventures in Northern Ireland to check out this month

How to listen to Downtown Country:

Tune into Northern Ireland’s number 1 for Country music, Downtown Country on online, on the Rayo app, your DAB radio, or say ‘Play Downtown Country’ on your Smart Speaker. We play you the best Irish and American country music, from Victoria Quinn in the morning, to Big T’s legendary evening Country show.  Â