Isle of Rum’s first Dark Sky Festival

The Isle of Rum’s Dark Sky Association is incredibly excited to announce the island’s first Dark Sky Festival.

The Isle of Rum will host its first-ever Dark Sky Festival from 14–16 February, inviting visitors and members of the press to experience an unforgettable weekend of astronomy, community, and island life beneath some of the darkest skies in the UK.

Recently awarded International Dark Sky Sanctuary accreditation, Rum is recognised globally for its exceptional night sky quality and its commitment to protecting the natural darkness through responsible lighting and community action. Dark Sky Sanctuaries are among the most remote and pristine dark sky locations in the world, offering outstanding conditions for stargazing while promoting environmental education.

The festival marks a major milestone for the island and the Isle of Rum Dark Sky Association, bringing together astronomers, families, creatives, and visitors to celebrate Rum’s extraordinary skies.

Festival Programme

Saturday 14 February
Visitors will arrive on the Isle of Rum via ferry from Mallaig and settle in for a weekend under the stars. The evening begins with an introduction to the Isle of Rum Dark Sky Association and a discussion on reducing light pollution. Guests can enjoy sessions in the pop-up planetarium and learn to identify constellations and planets with experts from Cosmos Planetarium. As night falls, guided stargazing sessions using smart telescopes will take place. Food and drink will be provided.

Sunday 15 February
The festival continues with an afternoon of creative and educational activities. Crafting sessions will be held at Rum Bunkhouse from 2pm, suitable for both children and adults. Alongside this, astronomy experts will deliver workshops on astrophotography and the use of solar telescopes. In the evening, participants can put their new astrophotography skills to the test at a communal bonfire and BBQ, followed by further stargazing, weather permitting.

Monday 16 February
Guests can return to the mainland after a spectacular weekend of astronomy and community, or choose to stay a little longer. Children-specific planetarium sessions will run during the day, and if skies are clear, there will be additional casual stargazing opportunities for adults in the evening.

How to get here and where to stay?

Come to the island via ferry at Mallaig on Saturday, and depart on Monday. There are still beds available at Rum Bunkhouse, Ivy Cottage and Harbour BBQ Hut for the duration of the festival. Please note, if you choose to stay at Rum Bunkhouse, some events will be taking place in the main living space during the day.