John, just be aware that much of the UK suffers light pollution approaching or matching that of Sydney, so if you're looking for somewhere to observe "from home", be selective and consult a light pollution map
Essentially, the south east, Midlands, much of northern England (the southern part, if that makes sense!) suffer quite badly because of urbanisation, but that's not to say there aren't pockets nestled among the hills. There are 55 million people surviving there. In Wales and Scotland it can be similar in and around the cities, but each with vastly lower populations compared to the land area should be easier to find a nice spot in. Likewise south west England and East Anglia to some degree.
Also, a lot of the local councils have switched to LED lighting in recent years to save money, and some of the more rural areas even switch these off after midnight
Good luck!
