Clear skies and warm temperatures are expected in north-east England and Cumbria for Wednesday’s partial solar eclipse, running from about 18:10 to 20:00 BST. Maximum eclipse times for key towns are around 19:06–19:08, with roughly 90% of the sun obscured at peak. Free public events are planned, including large gatherings in Gateshead; experts warn never to look directly at the sun and advise using certified eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector. The next total UK eclipse is on 23 September 2090.
How and When to See Wednesday’s Partial Solar Eclipse in North East England and Cumbria
A partial solar eclipse will be visible on Wednesday evening [Reuters]
Clear skies and unseasonably warm conditions are expected across north-east England and Cumbria on Wednesday evening as a partial solar eclipse passes over the UK. The moon will move in front of the sun, briefly dimming daylight for much of the region.
When to Watch
The eclipse window runs roughly from about 18:10 BST to 20:00 BST. According to NASA, the approximate local times for maximum eclipse in key towns are:
- Carlisle – 19:07
- Kendal – 19:08
- Durham – 19:07
- Middlesbrough – 19:08
- Newcastle-upon-Tyne – 19:07
- Alnwick – 19:06
At peak, about 90% of the sun will be obscured in the UK. A narrow path of totality will cross parts of Spain, but the UK will only see a partial event.
Where To Go
Free public gatherings are planned across the region, including:
People have been told to wear specialist eclipse sunglasses from reputable sellers [PA Media]
- Kendal Castle
- Wynyard Woodland Park (near Stockton)
- Merryoaks Community Hall (Durham)
- Glasshouse and Baltic Square, Gateshead — a large event hosted by Kielder Observatory with family activities and live coverage on a big screen
Weather Outlook
BBC Weather presenter Paul Mooney forecasts generally light winds and clear skies after a warm day, offering good viewing conditions. There is a small chance of an isolated shower over the North Pennines or Cumbrian Fells, which would be very localised.
Safety First
Do not look directly at the sun without proper protection. Ordinary sunglasses do not provide adequate protection. Use specialist eclipse glasses purchased from reputable suppliers or view the event indirectly with a simple pinhole projector. Even brief direct viewing can cause permanent eye damage.
If you make a pinhole projector: pierce a small hole in a piece of card, let the sun project through onto a flat surface, and watch the crescent shape safely without looking at the sun itself.
Why It Matters
Dan Pye, director of astronomy at Kielder Observatory, says events like this often inspire future astronomers and give people a vivid reminder that the solar system is in motion. The Gateshead programme will feature family-friendly activities and live commentary to help viewers enjoy the moment.
Looking Ahead
The next total solar eclipse visible across the UK will not occur for many decades; the next full solar eclipse in the UK is expected on 23 September 2090.
Help us improve.
