The Buck Moon, the second of three consecutive summer full moons, is set to rise over the West of England on Wednesday night, offering stargazers across Bristol, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Somerset a chance to spot the orange, amber or golden orb. Peak illumination technically occurs at 15:36 BST, but as this happens below the horizon, the moon will still appear full to the naked eye overnight into Wednesday, making high, open locations with clear eastern views and low light pollution the best places to catch it.

The moon is expected to rise between 20:07 and 21:07 BST after sunset at 20:53 BST, with clearer skies forecast for southern and eastern England than the north and west. Recommended viewing spots include Troopers Hill, Clifton Observatory and Victoria Park in Bristol; Cleeve Hill, Painswick Beacon and May Hill in Gloucestershire; Avebury Stone Circle and Barbury Castle in Wiltshire; and Glastonbury Tor, Burrow Mump and King Alfred's Tower in Somerset, though Somerset may see strong winds and thundery showers. The name "Buck Moon" derives from Native American tradition marking the time male deer grow new antlers, with alternative names including the Hay Moon and Thunder Moon.