The aurora borealis lit up the skies from Scotland to Kent, dazzling spectators with rare displays of green, red and purple.

While seasoned photographers often travel to remote landscapes with specialist equipment, experts say the lights can occasionally be seen from your own window. Dr Maria-Theresia Walach of Lancaster University, part of the AuroraWatch UK, recalled spotting vivid aurora colours from Lancaster city centre. “It is possible to see them in towns, but light and cloud pollution, even moonlight, makes it harder,” she said. High vantage points are not essential, though being further north improves the odds.

This year offers good chances for sightings, with the sun at a peak in its 11-year activity cycle. BBC meteorologist Simon King advises checking aurora forecasts and waiting for solar storms and clear skies.

For those eager to hunt, enthusiasts recommend apps such as AuroraWatch UK and Aurora UK, as well as social media alerts. Staffordshire's Ian Parks, who has seen the lights seven times in two years, described the experience “a wow moment… just be one with nature.”

BBC Countryfile highlights some of the UK’s best viewing sports, including the Brecon Beacons, Exmoor, Snowdonia, the Lake District and Northumberland’s coast, alongside official Dark Sky Reserves. Aurora chasers also report sightings across the Midlands, Northern Ireland and Shetland.

Experts recommend seeking dark countryside locations, turning off lights and allowing 10 minutes for eyes to adjust. Patience, warm clothing and, as Dr Walach suggests, a hot chocolate can help.

Photographer Chris Denning summed up the appeal: “Sometimes you’ll win and sometimes you won’t, but that’s half the fun.”