Tonight is your best chance to watch "the coolest shooting star shower all year"

Don't forget to make a wish 💫

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 12th Aug 2021
Last updated 12th Aug 2021

The Perseid meteor showers have been taking place over the country all week.

We've had it all, the skies above Northern Ireland have come to life this week with colourful clouds, shooting stars and even a mysterious fireball.

One of our listeners sent in a fantastic video captured from their back garden in Banbridge. They spotted a meteor soaring through the sky at around 9pm on Monday night.

The shower is set to hit its peak on Thursday night with up to 60 meteors an hour as. And with this crazy wind sweeping in from the west, the skies may be clear enough to catch a glimpse of one or two.

Your viewing window is from dusk 'til dawn, you just want a clear enough sky to see stars and you'll be in for a treat. You need to allow 10 minutes or so for your eyes to adjust to the darkness outside.

The showers are expected to continue right through until next week, so don't panic if you miss them tonight. Why not make a trip out of it and spend the night camping under the stars?

Check out some of NI's coolest camp sites 👇

Gorse Hill Farm, Bryansford

Just an hour outside Belfast, you can't beat the picturesque landscape from the cosy pods at Gorse Hill Farm. Enjoy walks in the mountains and views of the Shimna River Valley.

Highview Holiday Park, Portrush

Nestled in the heart of the Causeway Coast and 15 mins, this family-friendly park offers glamping cabins, a play park and tuck shop.

Castle Ward, Strangford

With pitches for tents, caravans, motorhomes and campervans, there's something for everyone at Castle Ward. Plus, if you don't have your own tent, the campsite also has a handful of wooden camping pods for hire.

Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh

Located near the stunning Strangford Lough and surrounded by the beauty of a country park, you'll never want to leave this hidden gem!

Let’s Go Hydro, Carryduff

Let's go Hydro offers a range of glamping options perfect for individuals, families and large groups. Your options are endless, from safari tents to cabins on the water!

Meelmore Lodge, Bryansford

Meelmore Lodge is an ideal place to stay for anyone visiting or trekking through the Mourne Mountains. They have a spacious campsite with stunning views and a bistro which is open daily to the public.

Kilbroney Caravan Park, Co.Down

Overlooking Carlingford Lough these 97 acres of beautiful parkland nestles within the shadow of Slieve Martin and the Mountains of Mourne.

Maddybenny Farm Campsite

Maddybenny Farm Campsite is a small and friendly family and dog friendly campsite. This spot is ideal for little one, with beaches, golf courses, scenic walks and numerous outdoor activities nearby.

Crom Campsite, Fermanagh

This large campsite is spread over two areas, Culliagh's and Bell Hill. This spacious family friendly plot offers tent pitches as well as collection of luxurious glamping pods. With lots of facilities on site including a shower and toilet block, outdoor tap for washing dishes and even a communal campfire.

Carrowmena, Limavady

Enjoy views of Binevenagh or trips to Benone Beach and Magilligan Point from Carrowmena's set of attractive bell tents. The site features tempting water sports and outdoor activities with trained instructors.

Sycamore Pods, Larne

Just a mile from Ballgally beach, Sycamore Pods offers glamping at its best. With two bespoke pods, guests can enjoy a weekend spent in a private hot tub, cosy up by the campfire and sleeping in ultimate luxury.

Murlough Cottage Caravan Park, Newcastle

The iconic views of the sea and towering Mourne Mountains are worth the trip to Murlough alone. With world-class golf, fishing, sailing and horse riding available you'll never get bored.

Riverside Farm, Enniskillen

A family run caravan park situated in the centre of Fermanagh Lakelands, ideal for visiting Marble Arch Caves, Florence Court House or Castle Coole. The site has a small marina with a slipway suitable for kayakers or stand-up paddle boarding.

Carrickreagh Bay, Lower Lough Erne

Carrickreagh Bay Luxury Glamping Pods look out over the tranquil waters of Lough Erne, offering a lovely base for families and couples.

Finn Lough Bubble Domes, Fermanagh

Sleep under the stars, turn off your mobile and go off the grid for a little adventure or a lot of relaxation. A once in a lifetime experience, sleeping in a luxurious four poster bed under a canopy of leaves in the heart of the stunning Fermanagh Lakelands.

Read more:

Did you see this mysterious fireball in the sky over Co Down last night?

15 magical places to camp under the stars in Northern Ireland

50 things to see and do in Northern Ireland this summer

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