Britain’s newest dark skies park is simply sparkling with business opportunities, local authorities say. An increasing public interest in all things astronomical makes starry-skied Northumberland a magnet for stargazers as astrotourism establishes itself as a sub-sector in its own right.

According to Northumberland National Park – a Gold Tier status International Dark Skies Park since December 2013 – the accolade offers a “significant tourism advantage amongst local businesses.” By appealing to established, amateur and first-time astronomers, local accommodation providers and others in the tourism industry should be able to capitalise on the region’s natural nocturnal beauty.

Entrepreneurially-minded astronomers are already running workshops for business owners. Star Tips for Profit gives B&B, campsite and inn owners ideas on how to create and offer a night sky experience to visitors.

Businesses can consider a wide range of astrotourism offerings, such as late dinners or late breakfasts to accommodate stargazers’ schedules. Astrotourists might also enjoy the provision of stargazing equipment, trips to the park’s Kielder Observatory, night walks or night photography tours and other “astro-events”.

The park authority is creating more than 30 officially designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites as part of its Animating Dark Skies initiative. The sites will help direct and inform people who want to learn more about the night skies above them. The authority is using funding granted by the UK government Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.