British stargazers are in for a spectacular nighttime show this week as the Geminid meteor shower peaks across the country.

This year's meteor shower will be like no other with experts describing it as potentially "our best meteor display in years".

According to respected astronomy writer Alan Pickup: "The Geminids shower boasts the highest meteor rates of any of our annual showers and, for once, this year’s return occurs at a time when we have no interference from moonlight."

However, he warned that for a good view, "fewer clouds" are required across the UK.

Where do the Geminids come from?

According to the Royal Museums Greenwich, the Geminids are set apart from other meteors because of their origin.

While most meteors originate from comets, the Geminids are leftover bits from an asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon.

The Geminids are said to radiate from near the star of Castor in the constellation Gemini.

During its peak, more than 100 medium-slow meteors per hour will shoot across Britain's night skies

The Met Office states that from December 9 to December 18, the weather is set to be rainy with "very windy" conditions also expected.

There is also potential for "short-lived colder interludes," bringing frost, especially in northern areas like Scotland.

Find out more about the weather forecast on the Met Office website.