The best places to see the Northern Lights in the UK as phenomenon becomes visible across Britain
We've been absolutely spoilt for choice as of late when it comes to natural phenomenons.
From the partial solar eclipse we marvelled over earlier this month to the upcoming pink moon set to grace the skies next Tuesday (23 April) - it's clear star-gazers all over have been in for a proper treat.
And the latest sky spectacle saw the Northern Lights making a surprise appearance on the UK coast of Dorset.
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Yesterday (16 April), those lucky people of Dorset were stunned after spotting a stunning purple glow across the skyline.
People were quick to take to the streets of Bournemouth to see for themselves the incredible aurora borealis showing streams of lilac dancing across the skies - with the spectacle most impressive in the less cloudy parts of the area.
The Met Office explains that Northern Lights, which usually only emerge within the Arctic circle, occur as a 'consequence of solar activity and result from collisions of charged particles in the solar wind colliding with molecules in the Earth's upper atmosphere'.
Krista Hammond, a manager at the Met's Space Weather Operations Centre, shared the exciting news that Brits should expect the Northern Lights to turn up unannounced more often.
She explained: "Over the coming years, as we continue towards the solar maximum, we can expect to see an increase in the frequency of space weather events, with more chances to see the aurora borealis over the UK."
Now, predominantly, the Northern Lights are best witnessed in Scotland, North England, North Wales and Northern Ireland.
However, under severe space weather conditions, the lights can be seen throughout the UK.
So, without further ado, here are the best places to see the Northern Lights without having to trek to the Arctic.
Shetland Islands
Now, not only are the Shetland Islands teaming with interesting wildlife who have called the beautiful natural landscape home - but they are also one of the prime spots to catch the Northern Lights.
Or, as the locals call them, 'Mirrie Dancers'.
Situated between Orkney, the Faroe Islands, and Norway, the best time to catch the spectacle here is around mid-October and March.
But, be sure to find yourself somewhere rural.
Conwy
Conwy is a pretty ideal site when it comes to catching the light show as it doesn't have much light pollution.
It seems they really take their darkness serious over there since the area was declared a dark sky reserve in 2015.
So, be sure to keep North Wales' national park, Eryri, formerly known as Snowdonia, in mind to see the sight.
Another ace location to add to the list is Llyn Geirionydd lake, which is said to be the most tranquil location to gaze up at the stars gaze from.
Norfolk
Now, Brancaster Staithe, a village on the north coast of Norfolk, is somewhat of a lesser-known prime spot to watch the Northern Lights.
However, that doesn't make it any less special as residents are lucky enough to be regularly gifted with the gorgeous spectacle and are even able to see it with the naked eye.
North Yorkshire
Get yourself over to Yorkshire to star-gaze to your heart's content.
Offering up the perfect combination of stunning natural scenery, a picturesque landscape and that much-need low light pollution - this is definitely one to keep on your radar.
Locals reckon Whitby is said to be the best place to spot the phenomenon in the Dales.
County Antrim
OK, so we all know by now that Scotland is pretty much a goldmine when it comes to Northern Lights appearances.
However, Ballycastle in Northern Ireland offers an equally jaw-dropping view of aurora borealis.
And the best part?
It's only an hour's drive from Belfast's airport.
Cumbria
And last, but by no means least, is Cumbria.
Enjoy a drive or train journey through the calming scenery of the Lake District before setting up shop to look up at the stars above.
Top tip: locals reckon that the lake next to Keswick, Derwentwater, is an underrated destination for sky gazers.
Rhiannon Ingle