Fascinated by astronomy? Experience an unforgettable night on Sunday 24th September under the starry skies of Kielder and the largest expanse of protected dark skies in Europe – the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park. ‘Night Sky Safari’ sessions at Kielder Observatory are geared towards maximising observing time through the telescopes. If you own your own telescope, you can take it along – this is a great opportunity to get some expert advice! Booking is essential. 

You can help to mark ten years of a very special charity by joining in a 10-mile walk on 24th September in the charity’s hometown of Hexham. Josie’s Dragonfly Trust supports children and young people with cancer, and the walk – organised in conjunction with the local Hexham Courant newspaper – will take you through woodland areas and open fields in the beautiful Northumberland countryside. The circular walk begins and ends at Hexham Racecourse.

Celebrate World Rivers Day, also on 24th September, in the beautiful Breamish Valley, near Ingram, with a great family day out, exploring what creepy-crawlies lurk in the River Breamish. Just bring wellies or old shoes to wear in the river. All the equipment, including nets and ID charts, will be supplied. (Aimed at families with children 12 years and under.)

Head to Hexham Abbey for a four-day festival of music and arts, beginning on Thursday 21st September and lasting throughout the weekend. Highlights of this year’s festival, which has a French theme, will include performances by guitarist Matthew McAllister, the Newcastle-based choir Voices of Hope, jazz musicians Nikki Iles and Stan Stulzmann, and the Hexham Abbey Festival Chorus and Orchestra.

The Maltings Theatre & Cinema in Berwick-upon-Tweed is the venue for a show from stand-up comedian, poet and improviser, Phill Jupitus. ‘Juplicity’ – full of tales, laughs and diversions – takes place on 27th September.

Find out what astronomy is all about with a visit to Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre, Amble, on Thursday 21st September. The Northumberland Astronomical Society will give a presentation on the Northumberland night sky, followed by a look at the stars through the telescope in the observatory (weather permitting).

Head to Kielder Castle Visitor Centre on Sunday 24th September for a special tour of Kielder’s art and architecture programme by experienced curator Peter Sharpe. You’ll be taken by mini-bus off the beaten track to artworks including Janus Chairs, Belvedere and Kielder Skyspace.