NORTH MOLTON GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Under Exmoor’s Black Velvet: A Night of Telescopes, Lasers and Virtual Skies
An evening guided by astronomers from The Poltimore Inn that pairs telescope viewing with laser-guided sky tours and virtual-space talks beneath Exmoor’s dark skies.
Under Exmoor’s Black Velvet: A Night of Telescopes, Lasers and Virtual Skies.
Our Place In Space gathers visitors in North Molton for an evening beneath Exmoor’s Dark Sky, where expert astronomers lead guests through the solar system, point out stars and the Milky Way, and open telescopes for close-up views of planets and other celestial sights.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Stargazing in Exmoor National Park
The event centers on observing the night sky from Exmoor’s dark-sky environment, with laser-guided explanations to orient viewers to stars, planets and the Milky Way.
Telescopes and Observatory Tour
Participants look through telescopes and are offered a tour of the observatory setup, allowing hands-on viewing and a close look at the instruments used by the astronomers.
Laser-Guided Talks and Virtual Sky Options
Expert astronomers deliver laser-guided night-sky explanations; if poor weather prevents direct viewing, the evening includes virtual-sky and VR space talks so the program continues regardless of conditions.
What the day feels like
What the evening feels like
Over roughly four hours, attendees move from orientation to instrument-led viewing and guided sky interpretation: astronomers use lasers to trace constellations, telescopes open views of planets and deep-sky objects, and if clouds move in the program shifts to virtual-sky and VR presentations to preserve the learning experience.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this night is for — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This guided evening lasts four hours and is scheduled for Friday 16th April 2027, 6pm–10pm.
The program includes telescope viewing, an observatory tour, laser-guided night-sky explanations and virtual-sky/VR talks as required by weather.
The event is operated by The Poltimore Inn and takes place in North Molton within Exmoor’s dark-sky area.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is this event scheduled?
The session is scheduled for Friday 16th April 2027, 6pm–10pm.
Where does the event take place?
The program takes place in North Molton, within Exmoor’s dark-sky area and is operated by The Poltimore Inn.
What will we do during the night?
Attendees take part in telescope viewing, an observatory tour, laser-guided sky explanations and, if necessary, virtual-sky and VR space talks.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes — the event is described as being for all ages.
What happens in bad weather?
If weather prevents direct stargazing, the evening includes virtual-sky presentations and a VR space experience talk so the program continues indoors.
Who leads the program?
Expert astronomers lead the evening, providing guided explanations and telescope sessions.