There’s something oddly thrilling about standing under a dark sky, staring at a distant light that doesn’t behave quite like a plane or a star. Whether you’re a true believer or simply enjoy a bit of mystery, the North West of England has long been a magnet for unexplained aerial sightings. With its combination of rolling moorlands, remote valleys, and relatively low light pollution, it’s a fantastic area for anyone interested in sky-watching and a touch of the unknown. In fact, the North West of England has reported more UFO sightings than any other region in the UK.
If, like me, you have an interest in the paranormal and would like UFO sightings yourself, I’ve put together a list of some of the best places in the North West for spotting your own UFO. From Lancashire’s high hills to the quiet corners of Cumbria, here are some of the region’s most intriguing spots — complete with postcodes and parking details — where locals and visitors alike have reported strange lights, shapes, and even “close encounters.”
1. Winter Hill, Lancashire (BL6 area)
Winter Hill, which sits above the towns of Horwich and Bolton, has a long history of reported UFO activity. Locals have spoken for decades about odd lights moving silently above the moorland and over the television mast that dominates the skyline. With its wide, exposed summit and panoramic views across Greater Manchester and Lancashire, it’s easy to see why it attracts so many sky-watchers.
Why visit: The elevation and open moorland make for excellent visibility in all directions. It’s also remote enough that light pollution is minimal, giving you a clearer night sky.
Postcode: BL6 7PG (Top of the Moor car park, Rough Lee Lane, Horwich)
Parking: There’s a small, free car park at the top of the lane, but it fills quickly on weekends. Be sure to park legally and check that you’re not blocking access roads to the transmitter. Bring a torch and warm clothing — it can get windy and cold even on summer nights.
2. Haslingden Halo and Rossendale Valley (OL13 region)
Rossendale is one of those areas that locals half-jokingly refer to as “Lancashire’s Area 51.” The hills above Haslingden, particularly around the Halo sculpture, are well known for odd lights in the night sky. The elevated position gives you an uninterrupted horizon, making it perfect for spotting anything out of the ordinary.
Why visit: You’ll get a clear, panoramic view of the valley below and a great sense of atmosphere. It’s quiet after dark, and the Halo itself glows with blue light, adding to the otherworldly feel.
Postcode: OL13 8PL (Moorside Road, Haslingden)
Parking: There are a few small lay-bys along Moorside Road. Be mindful not to block gates or tracks. There isn’t an official large car park for the site, so it’s best to arrive before dark to find a safe spot.
Tip: Take a camping chair, a flask, and maybe a camera with a tripod. Locals say clear nights after rainfall often give the best chances for sightings — perhaps because the air is cleaner and the stars shine brighter.
3. Stacksteads, Lancashire (OL13 9NG)
Just a few miles from Haslingden lies Stacksteads, a quiet village that’s surprisingly famous in UFO circles. Several reports have emerged over the years describing bright, fast-moving lights above the moorlands and the surrounding valley. The area is rural enough to provide a good dark-sky experience but not so remote that you’ll feel isolated.
Why visit: Stacksteads offers a balanced setting — enough civilisation to feel safe but close enough to open moorland to enjoy an expansive sky. It’s a great choice if you’re going with family or friends.
Postcode: OL13 9NG (Waterbarn Recreation Ground)
Parking: There’s some parking around the recreation ground and in the village centre. From there, it’s a short walk to more open ground where you can set up a viewing spot. Bring a torch and sturdy footwear if you plan to wander up onto the moors.
4. Longdendale Valley, Peak District Edge (SK13 1TJ)
Straddling the border between Greater Manchester and Derbyshire, Longdendale Valley has its own legends — not of flying saucers, but of mysterious glowing lights that locals have reported for decades. Known as the “Longdendale Lights,” these orbs are often seen drifting across the valley or hovering near the reservoirs. Some explanations suggest car headlights, reflections, or weather phenomena — but others remain convinced there’s more to it.
Why visit: The valley is remote, beautiful, and naturally eerie at night. Even without a UFO sighting, the star-filled sky is worth the trip.
Postcode: SK13 1TJ (Woodhead Pass area, near the reservoirs)
Parking: There are car parks along the reservoirs, some managed by the local authority. Check closing times — some gates are locked overnight. The lay-bys on the A628 (Woodhead Pass) offer quick access to viewing points, but be cautious when pulling in, as it’s a busy road.
Tip: Visit on a clear, calm night. The moors are exposed, so dress warmly and bring a hot drink. You’ll want to linger — this is one of the best night-sky spots in the North West.
5. Delamere Forest, Cheshire (CW8 2JD)
Not all UFO sightings happen on hilltops. Delamere Forest in Cheshire has had its fair share of mysterious lights over the years, often seen through the tree canopy or over the open heathland near Blakemere Moss. It’s also one of the few officially recognised “dark sky” areas in the region, making it ideal for stargazing and meteor watching.
Why visit: It’s peaceful, family-friendly, and easily accessible. Whether you see something unexplained or just a shooting star, it’s a magical place to spend an evening.
Postcode: CW8 2JD (Delamere Forest Visitor Centre)
Parking: There’s a large pay-and-display car park near the visitor centre with toilets and signage. You can stay after dark, but check closing times before you go. From there, short trails lead to open clearings ideal for night-sky viewing.
Tip: Avoid the busiest areas if you’re hoping for quiet observation — head for the forest edges or Blakemere Moss area for the best views of the sky.
6. Coniston Water, Lake District (LA21 8JN)
Heading north into Cumbria, Coniston Water and its surrounding fells have also drawn occasional UFO reports. It’s one of the darker parts of the Lake District, and the reflection of lights over the still water can create an eerie illusion that’s perfect for mystery-seekers. Whether you believe in UFOs or not, the stargazing here is spectacular.
Why visit: The scenery is unbeatable, and the calm of the lake at night can make even a satellite pass feel like a close encounter.
Postcode: LA21 8JN (Coniston Village Car Park)
Parking: There’s a large pay-and-display car park in Coniston village, open late in the evening. From there, you can walk down to the lakeside and find a quiet spot to set up a folding chair or camera.
Tip: The best nights are those with no moon — you’ll get darker skies and more visible constellations. If you’re into photography, try a long exposure over the lake for beautiful star reflections.
7. Pendle Hill, East Lancashire
Heading towards Burnley stands Pendle Hill, the daunting landmark the domiantes the area. Famous for the Pendle Witch Trials, Pendle Hill is famous not only for ghostyl sighting,s but also for UFO sightings. The atmosphere is errie and haunting making it the perfect place for UFO spotting.
Why visit: Pensdle Hill is the site of my first UFO sighting. Sitting atop Pendle Hill one vening during a ghost hunt, I got more than I bargained for when myself and another person spotted an orange light high in the sky travelling towards us. As we watched, it stopped and sped off in the direction it orignally came from and vanished out of sight.
Postcode: BB12 9BA for the hill itself.
Parking: Park in the nearby Pendle village, or park on roadside close to the hill.
Tip: The hill is not for the faint heated. We have had more paranormal expeirences at the bottom of the hill as opoosed to the top of the hill so don’t think you have to climb the huge hill to experience your own encounter.
Tips for Your UFO-Spotting Adventure
- Choose clear nights. (Easier siad than done in the North West) Cloud cover will spoil visibility. Use a stargazing app to check the forecast before heading out.
- Bring the right gear. A torch, warm clothing, binoculars, and maybe a camping chair can make the night more comfortable.
- Go with company. Many of these areas are rural and remote. It’s more fun and safer with friends or family.
- Keep an open mind. Not every light in the sky is from another world — many turn out to be satellites, aircraft, or drones. The fun is in the mystery.
- Respect the land. Stick to paths, take litter home, and park responsibly. Many moors and forests are part of protected landscapes.
- Stay a little longer. True enthusiasts say sightings often happen later in the evening, after midnight when the roads quieten and the air is still.
Whether you’re a dedicated UFO enthusiast or simply love a good night under the stars, North West England offers some of the best sky-watching spots in the country. From the eerie moors of Winter Hill to the calm waters of Coniston, each location has its own atmosphere — part mystery, part beauty.
Even if the only thing you see is a shooting star, you’ll have spent an evening reconnecting with the night sky and the landscapes that make the North West so special. So pack your flask, grab your torch, and head out one clear night. Who knows? You might just spot something that defies explanation.
