An evening under the stars will become a reality for many Londoners tonight as the second supermoon of 2020 reaches its zenith.
The phenomenon is one of the annual "worm moons" – named for the earthworms that emerge as the ground thaws with the beginning of spring.
The moon will be visible from after sunset at around 5.35pm, rising in the east and appearing 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than a normal moon – so it can be seen without specialist equipment. In fact, it offers a fantastic opportunity for budding astronomers in the capital this evening.
Still, it's recommended to find somewhere with dark skies, a clear horizon and little light pollution, which means London’s parks are the top options. Do take care if visiting parks after dark, and be sure to check closing times for all of them before heading down – we've had a look but in our experience, parks can operate to their own strange schedule, which often isn't publicised. Times can sometimes vary depending on weather and time of year, but don't worry if you arrive to find the parks shut – if you're unable to access them, the streets surrounding them should offer decent views too.
Greenwich Park
The most famous observatory in the UK is found in the bounds of Greenwich Park, and it’s no surprise that the area has attracted countless stargazers down the years. The picturesque setting is the perfect place to pitch up your telescope, and the higher ground leading up to the observatory offer a fantastic view. Closing time is listed as 7pm.
SE10 8XJ, royalparks.org.uk
The WaterWorks Nature Reserve
It might be a little way out from the centre of town, but this spot is easy enough to get up, being right by Lea Bridge station. While the reserve itself is shut from 4pm, the public rights of way are and it's worth tripping up here as it's one of London's three certified Dark Sky Discovery Sites (the others are Regents Park and Grove Park). With low levels of light pollution, you're all but guaranteed a clear view of the sky.
E10 7QB, visitleevalley.org.uk
Hyde Park
There’s an enormous 350 acres for stargazers to discover in this historic park. There are plenty of great vantage spots to be found, just be sure to stay well clear of the Serpentine after dark. It’s also home to all sorts of wildlife, with hundreds of species making their home across the park’s sprawling grounds, so keep an eye out for them too. The park is listed as being open until midnight.
W2 2UH, royalparks.org.uk
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is already a popular spot for stargazers — there are reports of a lunar loving club who head to the pub for a top up before popping out to stare at the sky. The wood is probably your best bet for the least light pollution; though, of course, the trees might get in the way. Best of luck. The park is open 24 hours a day.
NW3 1BN, hampsteadheath.net
The Regent's Park
Regent’s Park is a popular place for stargazing all year round, with groups like the Baker Street Irregular Astronomers meeting regularly to take in the sights. It might be very close to central London, but you’ll escape the worst of the city’s light pollution and experience some of the biggest skies and uninterrupted views in London in the royal park. It’s a fantastic spot to take in the moon in the north west of the city. The park is listed as open until 7pm.
NW1 4NR, royalparks.org.uk
