Best Places to Watch the 2025 Perseid Meteor Shower in Wales for Stunning Views

UK stargazers are in for a breathtaking celestial display this August as the 2025 Perseid meteor shower lights up the night skies. Known for its bright, fast-moving meteors and long, glowing tails, the Perseids are one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year. This year’s peak occurs on the nights of August 12–13, when observers could see up to 100 meteors per hour under ideal conditions.

The spectacle is caused by Earth passing through the debris trail of Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. As tiny particles hit our atmosphere at speeds of around 60 km per second, they burn up, producing the dazzling streaks of light we know as shooting stars.

However, city lights can dim the view, so heading to a dark-sky location is essential for the best experience.

Where to See the Perseid Meteor Shower in Wales

When it comes to stargazing in Wales, Snowdonia National Park stands out as the ultimate viewing spot. At an elevation of 3,560 feet and with minimal light pollution, Snowdonia offers a panoramic, crystal-clear view of the night sky. From its mountain peaks and valleys, observers can spot the Milky Way, constellations, and of course, the Perseids in their full glory.

Other notable stargazing spots in Wales include:

• Brecon Beacons National Park – A designated International Dark Sky Reserve with wide open horizons.

• Pembrokeshire Coast – Coastal views and dark skies away from major towns.

• Elan Valley – Known for its unspoiled skies and elevated vantage points.

According to UK weather forecasts, the night of August 12–13 will bring clear skies to much of northern Wales, making it an excellent time for stargazing.

How to Maximise Your Viewing Experience

The Perseid meteor shower radiates from the constellation Perseus in the northeast sky. While finding Perseus can help, simply gazing at a dark, wide-open sky will give you a chance to see meteors streaking across from multiple directions.

For the best results:

• Arrive at your chosen location at least 30 minutes before stargazing to let your eyes adjust to the dark.

• Avoid looking at phone or torchlight directly — use red-light filters if necessary.

• Bring a blanket, warm clothing, and a reclining chair for comfort.

• Stay patient — meteors often appear in bursts, so give yourself at least an hour of uninterrupted viewing time.

While a waning gibbous Moon (about 80% illumination) will be in the sky during the peak, the brighter meteors will still be visible.

Why the Perseids Are So Special

The Perseids are nicknamed “nature’s fireworks” by astronomers for good reason. They have been documented for over 2,000 years and are one of the longest-running meteor showers, visible from mid-July to late August each year.

Their high velocity means they often leave long, glowing trails across the sky, creating dramatic photographic opportunities. They are also one of the most reliable showers, with activity levels peaking predictably every August.

NASA notes that the Perseids are particularly bright because their meteoroids are larger and denser than those in many other showers, increasing the chance of seeing fireballs — exceptionally bright meteors that can briefly outshine Venus.

Expert Tips for Photographers

Astrophotographers hoping to capture the Perseid meteor showers should use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens (14–24mm recommended) and a tripod for stability.

• Use manual mode with a long exposure (15–30 seconds) and a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower).

• Set ISO between 1600–3200 to capture faint meteors without excessive noise.

• Frame the shot to include interesting foreground elements like mountains or lakes for added depth.

Shooting in RAW format will provide the best flexibility in post-processing.

What’s Next After the Perseids

If you miss the peak, the Perseids will continue until August 24, with reduced activity. Other meteor showers to watch later in the year include the Orionids in October and the Geminids in December, which are known for producing bright, colourful meteors.

The Perseid meteor showers remain one of nature’s most captivating spectacles, and 2025’s display — despite some moonlight interference — promises breathtaking views for those who venture to Wales’ darkest skies. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or a casual skywatcher, this is a summer night you won’t want to miss.

You Must Know:

When is the peak of the Perseid meteor shower in 2025?
The peak will occur on the night of August 12–13, with the highest activity just after 3am on August 13.

What causes the Perseid meteor shower?
It’s caused by Earth passing through the debris trail of Comet Swift-Tuttle, with particles burning up in the atmosphere to create shooting stars.

Where is the best place to watch the Perseids in Wales?
Snowdonia National Park offers some of the darkest skies and highest elevations for stunning views.

How many meteors can I expect to see?
In ideal dark-sky conditions, up to 100 meteors per hour are possible during the peak.

Will the Moon affect visibility this year?
Yes, an 80% illuminated waning gibbous Moon will be present, reducing visibility of fainter meteors but not obscuring the brightest ones.