The five best places to see the Northern Lights near the UK

Trying to spot the Northern Lights can be difficult, even for experts.

The Sun’s tour guide Lisa Minot has revealed the five best places to spot them, both in the UK and further afield.

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1. In the United Kingdom

Shetland, the northernmost point of Britain, is closest to the North Pole and the lights are visible several times a year.

The season lasts from October to March. The best sightings occur in the dead of winter, when the short days make for longer dark skies.

Even if you don’t spot them, the wildlife viewing, walking and exploring will more than make up for it.

Other UK spots for the lights include the Cairngorms and even Northumbria.

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2. By cruise

There are hundreds of options for those who want to take a Northern Lights cruise.

Hurtigruten even has a “Northern Lights Promise” on select cruises: If the lights aren’t visible, you’ll get another classic trip for free.

The 14-day journey through the land of the Northern Lights takes you to Norway and deep into the Arctic Circle.

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3. By plane

One of the best ways to ensure you see the Northern Lights is with an evening flight, where the pilot takes the guesswork out of the search.

Omega Breaks offers flights from Gatwick on November 8th, Birmingham on November 9th and Manchester on November 11th.

The three-hour flights cost from £269 per person and include commentary from an on-board astrologer and light refreshments.

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4. From a glass igloo

Of course, the further north you go, the greater the chance of spotting the famous lights.

And one of the most dazzling ways to do this is by staying in the wilds of Finnish Lapland in an AuroraHut glass igloo.

Best Served Scandinavia offers you the opportunity to admire the lights from the bed of your igloo on the shore of a sea frozen Lake with a stay at Jeris Lakeside Resort with snowmobile, reindeer and husky safaris on offer – all from £1,695 for a four-day getaway.

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5. On a city trip

Since the lights can sometimes be fickle, it makes sense to combine your search for the Aurora Borealis with other exciting activities, and in Iceland’s capital Reykjavik you can combine city delights with natural wonders.

A three-day excursion includes free time to explore the city, plus a jeep tour in search of the Northern Lights and the chance to soak in the heated springs of the Blue Lagoon.

All from around £865 per person.

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