❍ Buck Moon
July Full Moon
Date: Wednesday 29 July 2026
Moonrise: 8.45pm
Book an exclusive one hour night-time session at our WildSpa sauna and plunge for up to 6 people when you stay at Westerlands during a full moon.
July 2026
Buck Moon
Why It’s Special
The Buck Moon is the full moon of July, named for the time when male deer (bucks) grow new antlers. In the UK, this marks a peak of summer when wildlife is active, fields are at their greenest, and days are long. While not a supermoon, its presence in the sky is a striking reminder of the height of summer and the natural cycles of animal and plant life.
What You’ll Notice
At Westerlands, the Buck Moon will rise in the east at approximately 8.45pm, shortly after sunset. Low on the horizon, it may glow a warm golden hue, gradually shifting to a bright silver as it climbs higher. Its light casts long shadows across fields, hedgerows, and woodland edges, highlighting the richness of mid-summer landscapes. This full moon can feel particularly vivid against the late-evening summer sky, offering a tranquil yet lively view of the countryside.
Folklore & Tradition
The Buck Moon has traditionally been linked to the rhythms of wildlife. As bucks grow new antlers in July, farmers observed the timing of animal activity to guide hunting, grazing, and pasture management. In rural Britain, this full moon was also a natural marker for tending hay, preparing for harvests, and scheduling evening chores. Its appearance in the sky was a reminder of nature’s cycles and the interconnectedness of human activity and wildlife patterns.
Seasonal Connection
July represents the full swing of summer. Crops are growing strongly, livestock are grazing in fields, and wildflowers are abundant. The Buck Moon’s evening light historically helped farmers extend their working hours, whether checking animals, preparing fields for late summer hay, or enjoying the longer daylight. Its timing reinforced the agricultural calendar, helping communities balance seasonal work with the rhythms of the natural world.
Tips for Viewers
At Westerlands, look east at 8.45pm to catch the rising Buck Moon. The low-horizon golden glow is ideal for photographing fields, hedgerows, and woodland in the warm light of early evening. As it climbs, notice how its illumination transforms familiar landscapes into a soft silver panorama. Observing the Buck Moon offers a sense of connection to both local wildlife and the seasonal cycles that have guided rural life for centuries.