Geminids Meteor Shower: A Magical Night Awe-Walk

Experience the magic of the Geminids meteor shower, explore ancient woodland and rediscover awe and wonder beneath the North York Moors' dar Shooting stars. Ancient forests. Winter darkness. And a chance to rediscover your sense of awe and wonder. Every December, Earth passes through a stream of cosmic debris, producing one of the year's most spectacular astronomical displays: the Geminids meteor shower. At its peak, the Geminids can produce up to 100 meteors an hour under ideal conditions, sometimes displaying beautiful colours and brilliant fireballs as they streak across the night sky. Join us for a magical winter evening exploring the ancient woodlands and spectacular landscapes surrounding the Kilburn White Horse, on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. But this isn't simply a stargazing event. We'll combine a guided night walk with fascinating insights into astronomy, geology and deep time, alongside sensory experiences designed to help us slow down, reconnect with nature and discover a deeper sense of awe and wonder. And there's something particularly special about the landscape in December. The lights of distant villages twinkle below, frost and moisture sparkle in torchlight, and the familiar world takes on an entirely different character. Escape the Christmas rush, embrace the darkness and reconnect with the extraordinary universe around us. OUR NIGHT AWE-WALK Saturday 12 December | 7:00pm–9:15pm We'll meet at Kilburn Forest car park before setting off on a four-mile circular walk through ancient woodland and onto the elevated landscapes surrounding the White Horse. Along the way, we'll explore three interconnected themes. Discover the Universe Learn about the stars, planets and extraordinary scale of the cosmos, including the fascinating concept of deep time. We'll explain what causes the Geminids meteor shower and, if conditions allow, spend time watching for shooting stars. Embrace the Darkness Experience how the natural world changes after sunset. We'll explore short, carefully guided sections without torchlight, discovering how our senses adapt and how darkness can transform our perception of familiar surroundings. Rediscover Awe and Wonder Alison, our mindfulness instructor, will introduce simple sensory techniques designed to bring us into the present moment and help us connect more deeply with the landscape. We'll pause along the way to appreciate the sounds, textures and atmosphere of the winter night. And if clouds obscure the stars? The walk, sensory experiences and exploration of the natural world remain at the heart of the evening. We'll return to Kilburn Forest car park at approximately 9:15pm. WHAT'S INCLUDED - Professional guiding throughout the evening with two experienced guides; - An introduction to astronomy, the Geminids meteor shower and the wonders of the universe; - Fascinating insights into the geology, natural history and ancient landscapes of the North York Moors; - Guided mindfulness and sensory experiences, including exploring the landscape in darkness; - An opportunity to watch for shooting stars, weather permitting; - A memorable winter adventure designed to inspire awe and wonder. EQUIPMENT & LOGISTICS Date: Saturday 12 December 2026 Time: 7:00pm–approximately 9:15pm Location: Kilburn White Horse, North York Moors National Park Meeting Point: Kilburn Forest car park (use the precise location link from your AFSM website) Distance: Approximately 4 miles (6.5km) Duration: Approximately 2¼ hours Terrain: Woodland paths, muddy and uneven ground, steep hills and steps Maximum Group Size: 12 participants What to Bring - Headtorch (essential): A proper headtorch with fresh or fully charged batteries. Handheld torches and phone torches are not suitable. A spare is recommended; - Warm clothing: Plenty of warm layers, including an insulated jacket, hat and gloves. Bring more than you think you'll need, as we'll be stopping frequently in December temperatures; - Waterproofs: A waterproof jacket and trousers, whatever the forecast; - Walking boots: Sturdy boots with good grip for muddy, slippery and uneven terrain; - Walking poles: Recommended for additional stability, particularly on the steep sections and steps; - Hot drink and snacks: A flask of something warm and a few snacks; - Personal medication: Any medication you may need during the evening; - Small rucksack: To carry your equipment and spare layers. Your Guides Fabian: Qualified Mountain Leader, scientist and dark skies enthusiast, bringing together astronomy, geology and natural history to explore the extraordinary world and universe around us. Alison: Mindfulness instructor, guiding sensory experiences that encourage us to slow down, reconnect with nature and rediscover a sense of awe and wonder. WHO IS THIS FOR? Anyone who loves nature, astronomy or simply the idea of escaping the everyday to experience the magic of the natural world after dark. No previous nightwalking experience or knowledge of astronomy or mindfulness is required. However, a good level of fitness is essential. Although the route is only four miles, it includes a long, steep ascent to the plateau and steep, uneven steps descending towards the car park. Above all, bring your curiosity, a sense of adventure and a willingness to embrace the darkness! PLEASE NOTE – IMPORTANT BOOKING INFORMATION Walking Conditions: The route is approximately four miles, mainly following established paths. However, there are muddy and rough sections, a particularly long and steep ascent, and steep, uneven steps on the descent. Some sections will be walked in darkness. Headtorches: Every participant must bring their own working headtorch with fresh or fully charged batteries. Handheld torches and phone torches are not suitable. Please familiarise yourself with your headtorch before attending. Weather: The Geminids meteor shower is a natural phenomenon, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. The experience will proceed in a range of weather conditions, including cloud and light rain. If seriously adverse weather compromises safety or the evening's objectives, an alternative date or refund will be offered. Route: The route may be adjusted at short notice to suit the conditions. Meeting Point: Kilburn Forest car park. Full joining instructions will be sent before the event. Fitness: A good level of fitness is required. Participants must be comfortable tackling steep hills and uneven terrain in darkness. Group Size: Maximum 12 participants.