There are few images more calming than sleeping under the stars. Cosying up in your tent while you stare at the twinkling expanse of the sky, hoping to see a flash of a comet pass you by. But there’s probably no way to experience the nocturnal beauty in the UK – right?

However, despite London being considered one of the most light-polluted cities on Earth, there has actually never been a better time for amateur astrologists in the UK. Wales was recently named the first designated International Dark Sky Sanctuary in Europe, proving its exceptional quality of starry nights.

The announcement has given rise to ‘star bathing’. The trend encourages you to focus on immersing yourself in the stars for the benefit of your mental wellbeing, promoting mindfulness and calm and encouraging good rest. According to campsite booking platform Hipcamp, searches for ‘star bathing’ have increased by more than 70% in the last month alone.   

“Star bathing is about connecting to our direction, while together in darkness. It’s an opportunity to open ourselves and our senses to the world directly around us, before looking up and connecting to the stars,” explains certified forest therapy guide Annabel O’Neill. So how can you try this forest bathing alternative without hiking to the furthest corners of the country?

To help make the most of dark skies this summer, Hipcamp has created a global-first UK Dark Skies Map showing campsites and regions where stars will shine the brightest – with locations ranging from Gloucestershire to the Cotswolds and Somerset.

Before you plan your star bathing trip, Hipcamp recommends checking a stargazing calendar which outlines major astrological events – like supermoons, pink moons and star showers – that make the experience even more special. May’s flower moon (4 May) or June’s strawberry moon (4 June) make for ideal timing. 

When most of us are trying to tune out the most hectic aspects of our day-to-day lives, this trend offers a realistic and affordable solution. This summer, as long as the British weather holds up, you’ll find us spending at least one staycation under the stars.

Images: Getty