Starry-eyed visitors to Ceredigion and Mid Wales can experience the wonders of the night sky now a 45,000 acre estate in the region has achieved official recognition.

Elan Valley Estate, in the Cambrian Mountains, has been awarded International Dark Sky Park ‘silver-tier’ status – the first privately owned, but publicly accessible park in the world to do so.

The silver-tier status has been granted by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) based in Arizona, USA and means that the estate is now protected against light pollution for the benefit of locals, visitors and wildlife.

Elsewhere in Mid Wales, Cardigan Castle has been reopened following a £12m restoration project.

The redevelopment of the castle has included the recreation of the paths and lawns of the regency gardens, fitting of a floor-to-ceiling glass restaurant with panoramic views over the River Teifi, and the restoration of the whalebone arch.

This site also provides luxury accommodation, with bed-and-breakfast and self-catering apartments, as well as an on-site restaurant providing locally-sourced, traditional Welsh food at the on-site restaurant.

Stand number: UKI100