DUNKERY Beacon, on Exmoor, has been rated as the best place in England to watch next week’s Lyrid meteor shower.

The meteor shower, which arrives every year, is expected to be visible from April 16 to 25 with its peak on the night of April 22.

The Royal Museums Greenwich said it was the oldest meteor shower still visible today, having first been recorded in 687 BC.

Delta Roam, a UK-based outdoor apparel brand, has analysed data to see which parts of England were likely to have the best view of the phenomenon.

It said Dunkery Beacon, the highest point in Somerset at 1,703 feet, came top with a score of 77.9 out of 90, with Northumberland and Herefordshire in second and third places, respectively.

Exmoor National Park was the first designated European Dark Skies Reserve and every autumn holds a two-week dark skies festival.

Delta Roam looked at factors such as light pollution, elevation, latitude, and how accessible the locations were for the public and wheelchair users, before combining them into a weighted score to find the best viewing hotspots in the country.

Spokesman Matt Salkeld said: “The Lyrid meteor shower is a key moment in the UK’s astrological calendar, providing an exciting visual performance to any lucky spectators.

“As with many other meteor showers, the best way to catch the Lyrids is to find an unobstructed view of the sky, in an area with as low light pollution as possible.

“If you are an avid stargazer who is willing to travel to find the best view, or maybe even just curious about where you can catch a glimpse in your local area, then our list of the best spots to watch the Lyrid meteor shower can be a useful guide in ensuring a memorable experience.”