new to astronomy and need advice

[Iris10909]

my wife recently purchased me some binoculars, as im just getting into the gazing scene and would like advice. whereabouts in the uk are the best places to visit, and also as i live in manchester, are there any nearby? are there any magazines / clubs that provide info? thanks

[vegas]

I found this site http://avex.org.free.fr/cartes-pl/uk/UK-pl-relief-topo.html very helpful to help find places with dark skies.

I tested out a few locations near me (Peterborough) and the quality of skies were just as the site indicated

With regards to magazines, I would recommend Astronomy Now and Sky at Night.

[Capricorn]

For clubs try:

www.fedastro.org.uk

They list the astro clubs, not sure if all the clubs, around the UK.

There are others on the forum from your area so some may have more direct information.