The northern lights could be visible across Lancashire tonight (May 20) and we have rounded up some of the best places to see them.

According to the Met Office the phenomenon, also known as the aurora borealis, is set to be visible on Monday night and into the early hours of Tuesday morning.

This is after coronal mass ejection (eruptions from the sun which cause northern lights on earth) left the sun on Friday, May 17.

The bands of pink and green light were seen across the UK and in parts of Europe last week after an extreme geomagnetic storm caused them to be more visible, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The stunning pinky-purple and green lights were spotted across Bolton, Blackrod, Edenfield, Edgworth, Horwich, Padiham, Blackburn, Rawtenstall, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington , Prestwich, Bury and Stoneclough. 

Across Lancashire, it’s set to be a clear night free of cloud coverage from 10pm meaning people in the county have a better chance of seeing the northern lights.

Where is the best place to see the northern lights in Lancashire?

There are some excellent star gazing spots and dark sky discovery sites across Lancashire – particularly in the Forest of Bowland. Skies here have been recognized as some of the darkest in England and granted official status as Dark Sky Discovery Sites.

1. Forest of Bowland: Light pollution from the county's urban sprawl means there is diminishing territory where astronomers can catch astronomical events.

Bowland has no fewer than five officially designated 'dark skies' spots across the forest - Beacon Fell Country Park, Gisburn Forest Hub, Slaidburn village car park, the Crook o’ Lune Picnic Site and Clerk Laithe Lodge guest house at Newton-in-Bowland.

2. Clitheroe Castle: Clitheroe Castle is located in the heart of the Ribble Valley and is one of the best places for stargazing in East Lancashire.

With its elevated position, the castle offers an uninterrupted view of the night sky, and it's a popular spot for local astronomy groups.

The castle often hosts stargazing events, so be sure to check their website for upcoming dates.

3. Pendle Hill: Pendle Hill is a popular spot for hiking and walking, but it's also a great place for stargazing.

The hill offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and on a clear night, you can see the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.

Just be sure to bring warm clothing, as it can get chilly at the top, and due to the uneven terrain of the hill it would not be advised ascending or descending in darkness unless an experienced hiker.

4. Tockholes Plantation: Tockholes Plantation is a woodland area located just outside of Blackburn that is perfect for stargazing.

The plantation is far away from the city lights, and it offers a dark and peaceful atmosphere for watching the stars.

It's a great spot for a quiet night out with friends or family, and there are several hiking trails in the area for daytime exploration.