Dark Sky Stargazing Experiences with Mark Thompson Astronomy - £35 per person
Journey into the darkness and discover the night sky from the Norfolk Broads
Leave the lights of Wroxham behind and join astronomer and science communicator Mark Thompson for a very different evening on the Norfolk Broads. Our new Dark Sky Experiences combine a two-hour evening river cruise with expert astronomy and stargazing. With mulled wine or cider on arrival, an introductory talk from Mark as we cruise towards Salhouse, guided observation of the night sky and an audience-style Q&A on the return journey, this is an opportunity to experience the Broads after dark while discovering more about the universe above us. *Image credit Mark ThompsonThe Experience
As darkness falls, step aboard in Wroxham and settle in with a warming glass of mulled wine or cider before beginning a journey into the night.
During the outward cruise, Mark Thompson will introduce you to the night sky, sharing his knowledge of astronomy and explaining some of the celestial sights we may encounter during the evening.
At Salhouse Broad, Mark will use a laser pointer to guide you around the night sky, identifying stars, constellations, planets, and other celestial objects visible on the night.
The experience continues on the return cruise to Wroxham with an informal audience-style session where you can put your questions directly to Mark.
No previous knowledge of astronomy is required. Just curiosity and a willingness to look up.
Meet Mark Thompson
Mark Thompson is a science broadcaster, author, and speaker known for making science accessible across TV, radio, podcasts, theatre, and print.
He co-presented BBC Stargazing Live, appeared on The One Show and various daytime programmes, and tours his award-winning Spectacular Science Show, now in its 10th year.
He has published several astronomy books, including 101 Facts You Didn’t Know About Space, and is a sought-after speaker at institutions like the Royal Institution.
Mark also hosts major industry events such as Space Comm Expo, and his charity work includes raising tens of thousands for Barnardo’s via a 140-hour lecture.
He holds an Honorary Doctorate from the University of East Anglia.
Experience Dates
Four Nights Under the Stars
Our Dark Sky Experiences have been scheduled for nights chosen to offer interesting opportunities for observing the autumn and winter skies, including dates falling on or close to predicted meteor shower activity.
21 October
An autumn evening beneath the stars as we leave the lights of Wroxham behind and head towards the darker skies of Salhouse Broad.
17 November
A late-autumn Dark Sky Experience with Mark guiding you through the night sky and the celestial activity visible overhead.
13 December
Wrap up warm for a December evening on the Broads and a chance to explore the winter night sky.
13 February
Romantic Stargazing Experience
A special pre-Valentine’s evening beneath the stars.
Swap the predictable dinner reservation for mulled wine, a night-time cruise, and an evening exploring the universe together.
About Vintage Broadsman
FAQs
The complete Dark Sky Experience lasts approximately two hours, including the outward cruise, stargazing experience at Salhouse Broad, and return journey to Wroxham.
The experience is suitable for adults and young people aged 14 and over.
No previous knowledge of astronomy is required.
After boarding in Wroxham, guests will receive mulled wine or cider before Mark introduces the evening during our outward cruise.
At Salhouse Broad, guests will enjoy a guided night-sky experience with Mark, including a laser-pointer ‘show & tell’.
The return cruise features an informal audience-style Q&A with Mark.
No. You do not need to bring any specialist astronomy equipment to enjoy the experience.
Wrap up warm.
Part of the experience takes place outdoors at Salhouse Broad, and guests may be standing still while observing the night sky, so it can feel considerably colder than during a normal walk.
We recommend warm layers, a waterproof outer layer where appropriate, suitable footwear, hats, and gloves.
Yes. Blankets will be available onboard to help keep guests comfortable during the evening.
Yes. Our passenger boat has a fully licensed onboard bar serving a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Hot drinks will also be available to purchase during the experience.
Astronomy is rather dependent on the universe cooperating.
The experience is subject to weather and viewing conditions, and unfortunately, we cannot guarantee clear skies, meteor sightings, or visibility of particular astronomical objects.
Mark will adapt the content of the evening according to the conditions and provide an engaging astronomy experience even where visibility is limited.
Our dates have been selected to coincide with, or fall close to, periods of predicted meteor shower activity.
Meteor showers are natural phenomena, however, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Visibility will depend on factors including cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and the level of meteor activity on the night.
Dark Sky Experiences depart from Broads Tours in Wroxham. Full joining information will be provided with your booking confirmation.
Discover the Broads After Dark
Leave the lights behind and experience the Norfolk Broads beneath the night sky.
Join astronomer Mark Thompson for a fascinating two-hour journey combining river cruising, stargazing, expert commentary, and conversation beneath the stars.
21 October | 17 November | 13 December | 13 February
Suitable for ages 14+