After a successful inaugural event earlier this year, we are delighted to share that the Isle of Rum’s Dark Sky Festival will return next year from February 6th-8th.

The weekend’s timetable is yet to be released, but you can expect expert guided stargazing, sessions in a mobile planetarium provided by Aerospace Kinross, as well as astrophotography and arts workshops.

We are incredibly excited to announce our 2027 guest speaker, Professor Catherine Heymans, Scotland’s Astronomer Royal.

Professor Heymans said: ““I’m ever so excited to be joining the Rum community for their Dark Sky Festival.  

“I’ll be crossing all my fingers and toes for cloudless nights so we can gaze up at Rum’s pristine dark skies and see our cosmos just teeming with stars.  For this city-dweller, I know it will be an unforgettable experience.”

Admission to the Isle of Rum Dark Sky Festival is free, and accommodation can be booked at Rum Bunkhouse, campsite & camping pods, Ivy Cottage, and Harbour BBQ Hut.

To enjoy the entire weekend, ferry travel is possible on Saturday morning from Mallaig, returning on Monday afternoon.

The post Isle of Rum Dark Sky Festival 2027 first appeared on Welcome to the Isle of Rum.

Experience this rare and fascinating event surrounded by the wild beauty of Scotland’s Dark Sky Sanctuary. As the moon passes in front of the sun, we will gather as a community to watch the changing light, share the moment, and learn more about what is happening in the sky above us.

Solar eclipse viewing glasses will be available on site for a suggested donation of £1. A solar telescope will also be set up for safe viewing, giving you a closer look at the eclipse as it unfolds.

Whether you are a keen stargazer or just curious, this casual gathering is for everyone.

Safety is important when viewing a solar eclipse. Please do not look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Only use certified eclipse glasses or the solar telescope provided. Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing the sun.

We’ll have seating available and some marshmallows over a toasty fire – wear something weather appropriate, possibly a midge net, and enjoy an unforgettable evening with neighbours and visitors alike.

No booking required – just come along and be part of it.

Fancy joining the Isle of Rum Dark Sky Association and being the first to hear about events, news and updates on the sky above us? Join our mailing list

The post Solar Eclipse Viewing Party first appeared on Welcome to the Isle of Rum.