Sky over a lake is lit with a green swirl of northern lights

Northern lights

Find out why the northern lights occur and when and where to see them in the UK.

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are one of nature’s most spectacular displays. These shimmering waves of colour—ranging from pale green and pink to vibrant reds, blues, and violets—can sometimes light up the night sky especially in the north of the UK. The intensity and range of colours depend on solar activity, with brighter, more widespread displays during strong geomagnetic events.

What causes the northern lights?

The phenomenon is triggered by solar activity. The Sun emits charged particles known as solar wind, which travel at around 1 million miles per hour. When these particles interact with Earth’s magnetic field—especially when the solar wind’s polarity is opposite to Earth’s—they are funneled toward the magnetic poles. As these energetic particles collide with gases in the upper atmosphere, they release energy in the form of light. Oxygen produces green and, at higher altitudes, rare red auroras, while nitrogen creates blue and purple hues.

When and where to see them in the UK

The best chance to see the northern lights in the UK is during the Equinox and Solstice in March/April and September/October. They are most visible in Scotland, northern England, North Wales, and Northern Ireland, but during intense solar storms, the lights can be seen much further south.

Top tips for viewing the northern lights

  • Find dark, clear skies: Light pollution and cloud cover can obscure the view, so head to remote areas and look north.
  • Best locations: North-facing coasts and rural spots offer the best vantage points.
  • Timing: The lights are most active around the Equinoxes, but strong solar activity can bring surprises at other times of the year

What are the southern lights?

The equivalent display in the southern hemisphere is known as the southern lights or aurora australis. Caused by the same phenomenon as the northern lights, the primary difference is that there are more land-based viewing locations closer to where the northern lights are most often seen, making them generally easier for people to see.