Barr Beacon Local Nature Reserve

The Barr Beacon Local Nature Reserve is a hill and nature reserve just outside Walsall in the West Midlands, about 6 miles (10 km) north of Birmingham, England. Please note that while there are no designated stargazing areas, the hill is accessible by locals and tourists year-round, and is a hotspot for stargazing evenings organized by the city council’s countryside rangers and the local astronomical society, often themed on different planets. Camping is not available at the site, however there are opportunities for visitors who connect with a local concierge or nearby resort. One EarthSky reader says that it “may not sound like an auspicious site for stargazing but, due to its height, the views are outstanding. Historically, fires were lit here in times of impending attack.” For more information, please visit online or call the city of Walsall at 01922 650000.