Solar Eclipse on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon): Best places to view in 2026
- Walk Snowdonia
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
A rare and awe-inspiring astronomical event is on its way — the Solar Eclipse of 2026. It’s one of nature’s most spectacular shows, and Eryri (Snowdonia) is set to have a front-row seat.
Whether you're an avid stargazer, a casual walker in the hills, or simply someone who enjoys witnessing the wonders of nature and our universe, this is a date you’ll want to mark on your calendar.
In this blog, we’ll dive into what a solar eclipse is, where and when to see it in the UK, the best viewing spots, and what makes Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) such a good spot, and how to watch safely.
We'll also give a sneak peek at the 2027 eclipse.
What is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking all or part of the Sun's light. There are three main types of solar eclipses:
Total eclipse – The Moon completely covers the Sun, and day briefly becomes night.
Partial eclipse – The Moon covers only a portion of the Sun.
Annular eclipse – The Moon is farther from Earth and doesn’t fully cover the Sun, creating a dramatic “ring of fire.”
These events only occur during a new moon, and due to the precise alignment required, total eclipses are rare and often only visible from specific parts of the world.
When and where will the Eclipse occur in the UK?
The 2026 solar eclipse will take place on Wednesday, 12 August 2026. While Spain, Iceland and parts of the North Atlantic will experience a total eclipse, the UK will witness a significant partial eclipse.
Here’s what you can expect:
Wales, including Eryri Snowdonia, will see around 90% coverage.
Scotland will see the deepest eclipse, with over 90% of the Sun obscured.
Southern England will get around 80-83%.
Timing varies slightly across the country, but the maximum eclipse will generally occur between 19:00 and 19:20 BST, just before sunset. This means the Sun will be low on the horizon, adding to the visual drama.
Best places in the UK to see the Eclipse
Where you watch from can make or break your eclipse experience. The western side of the UK will have the highest percentage of coverage. Here are our top recommendations for 2026:
1. Snowdonia National Park, Wales
A dramatic natural setting on the west coast of with high elevations and clear western horizons. More on this below!
2. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Known for its dark skies and rugged landscapes. Skye will experience a very deep partial eclipse, with excellent photographic potential.
3. Lake District, England
Offering high vantage points and wide, open skies — a great spot if you're based in northern England.
4. Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales
With the Sun setting in the west during maximum eclipse, coastal views here will be stunning.
5. Cairngorms, Scotland
Scotland's highest peaks will give eclipse chasers a breath-taking perspective and possibly clearer skies.
Watching the Solar Eclipse from Snowdon
Watching a solar eclipse from Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
At 1,085 metres, it’s the highest point in Wales, offering unobstructed views of the western horizon — where the Sun will be dipping during the eclipse.
Why Snowdon is Perfect:
Elevation: The higher you are, the more horizon you can see — especially helpful for an eclipse occurring near sunset.
West is best: The west of the UK will be closest to the region of the world where the total solar eclipse will be taking place
Scenic Drama: The silhouetted peaks, valleys, Irish Sea and golden eclipse light make for an unforgettable scene.
Atmosphere: There’s something almost mystical about seeing a celestial event in a place steeped in legend and history.
Top Tip: Don’t forget your head torch for the way down! The eclipse will be just before sunset so you will need a head torch for the way down. Join a Snowdon guided walk with a local mountain guide for more practical information and peace of mind.
How do you watch a Solar Eclipse safely?
Never look directly at the Sun — even during a partial eclipse — without proper protection.
Doing so can cause permanent eye damage or blindness.
Here’s how to watch safely:
Eclipse Glasses: Only use certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses are not safe.
Solar Filters: Attach these to telescopes, binoculars, or cameras.
Pinhole Projector: Make a simple viewer by poking a hole in a piece of card and letting sunlight pass through onto a flat surface.
Welder’s Glass: Only shade 14 or higher is safe for solar viewing.
Don’t Forget:
The eclipse will be near sunset, so don't forget your head torch. Also, the low angle can make it tempting to stare — don’t risk it. Always use proper filters or projection techniques.
2027 Solar Eclipse – Even bigger things ahead
If you thought 2026 sounded exciting, wait until 2 August 2027. That’s when the next total solar eclipse will occur — and this time, the UK will be even closer to the action.
While totality will be seen in southern Spain and North Africa, the UK will once again enjoy a deep partial eclipse, with over 90% coverage in many areas.
So if the clouds ruin your view in 2026, don’t worry — you’ll have another shot just a year later.
Final Thoughts
The Solar Eclipse of 2026 offers a rare chance to witness the dance of celestial bodies right from our own back gardens, beaches, and mountaintops. And if you're lucky enough to be in Eryri (Snowdonia), why not join us on the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and watch the cosmos put on a show above the Welsh skies.
Whether you're an eclipse enthusiast or just curious about the wonders above, make sure you’re ready — because the next time this happens, you’ll want to say: I saw it from the summit.
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