Northern Lights in the UK
The Northern Lights are visible from Scotland and northern England during active periods, typically September to March.
Countdown
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Next date
Tuesday, 1 September 2026
2026 aurora season opens
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Upcoming dates
| Event | Date | Countdown | Region / notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 aurora season opens | Tuesday, 1 September 2026 | In 2 months | Best Sep-Mar, Scotland |
| 2026 aurora season closes | Wednesday, 31 March 2027 | In 9 months | Scotland |
| 2027 aurora season opens | Wednesday, 1 September 2027 | In 1 year 2 months | Scotland |
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are visible from Scotland and occasionally northern England from September to March, when nights are long enough and solar activity is sufficient. Scottish locations including Shetland, Orkney, Caithness, and the Cairngorms offer the best chances. The lights require clear skies, darkness, and elevated geomagnetic activity, so sign up for space weather alerts from the British Geological Survey. Solar cycle 25 peaked around 2025, meaning elevated aurora activity should continue into the late 2020s.
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Verified 13 May 2026
Questions
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in the UK?
September to March, when nights are dark enough. Peak solar activity improves chances year-round.
Where in the UK is best?
Shetland, Orkney, Caithness, and the Scottish Highlands. Occasionally visible in northern England during strong events.
How do I know when they will appear?
Sign up for free aurora alerts from the British Geological Survey or follow space weather alerts.
Can I see them from England?
During strong geomagnetic storms they can be visible across much of the UK, but Scotland has the best regular odds.