THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HELICOPTER FLIGHTS ACROSS THE UK
The Ultimate Guide to Helicopter Flights Across The UK For 2024
Welcome to Experience Days’ updated guide to the top helicopter flights across the UK for 2024!
Discover the abundance of breath-taking helicopter flights available throughout the UK, showcasing the country's sprawling cities, verdant countryside, and charming towns. Over the years, Experience Days has curated numerous helicopter guides covering destinations from the South West to Scotland. If there's a helicopter journey to be had, we've documented it!
Helicopter experiences consistently rank among our most sought-after gifts, making them an ideal choice for this Christmas season. That's why we've gathered the crème de la crème of helicopter flights from across the country, ensuring you can treat the thrill-seeker in your life to an unforgettable aerial adventure.
Curious about what to expect?
We understand that helicopter flights can be intimidating, especially for first-time flyers. That's why we've crafted a guide specifically tailored to nervous beginners. Find out more about what to expect from a helicopter flight here.
So, without further ado, delve into our selection of the finest helicopter flights spanning the nation. It's the perfect Christmas gift for nearly everyone on your list.
Helicopter Flights South West
Experience the vast wonders of the South West of England with unparalleled excitement and efficiency through our highly recommended helicopter tours! (Okay, maybe we're a little biased.)
Explore the stunning coastline and sea with our coastal tours or venture further inland to discover beloved cities like Bristol and Bath, or iconic landmarks such as the legendary Stonehenge in Wiltshire. Whether you prefer the rugged beauty of the Jurassic Coast or the charming landscapes of the West Country, Experience Days has you covered.
Top tip for wherever your adventure takes you: Don't forget to bring along a camera to capture every breathtaking moment!
Our Top Picks:
Bath and Bristol Helicopter Tour
Embark on an extraordinary journey exploring two counties in one with our captivating helicopter tour of Bath and Bristol!
Starting from Bath Racecourse in Somerset, your adventure begins with a short flight to the city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Roman buildings, medieval charm, and Georgian architecture, including the awe-inspiring Bath Abbey. Take in these historic landmarks from a bird's-eye view before heading northwest to Bristol.
In Bristol, you'll have the chance to spot iconic landmarks such as the majestic Clifton Suspension Bridge, connecting Bristol to Somerset over the River Avon, and the historic Cabot Tower, built in the 1890s to commemorate John Cabot's voyage to Canada.
This 25-minute tour offers not only the opportunity to admire the beautiful sights of both cities but also to delve into their rich history and appreciate the picturesque countryside that surrounds them. It's an exhilarating way to discover your home from a whole new perspective.
For anyone on your gift list residing in or around Bristol, this helicopter adventure promises an unforgettable and festive experience.
Stonehenge and Salisbury
Embark on an extraordinary 30-minute helicopter experience offering a fresh perspective on the iconic Stonehenge!
Your adventure begins upon arrival at the airport, where you'll be warmly greeted by your experienced pilot. After a quick check-in, you'll be escorted to the aircraft. Settle into your seat and prepare for a journey that promises to be unforgettable.
As you soar above Stonehenge, one of the world's most captivating historic sites, you'll enjoy an unparalleled view free from the usual crowds. Your knowledgeable pilot will provide engaging commentary on the intriguing history of Stonehenge, offering insights that enhance your aerial exploration. Glide over the stunning Salisbury Plain, admiring the numerous burial mounds scattered across the landscape.
Upon landing back at the airport, you'll depart feeling exhilarated from this extraordinary experience.
Cornwall Flight //
Continuing the South West section of our guide, this Cornwall makes a great addition to your next Cornwall day out, and is the perfect Christmas gift for Cornwall locals who want to see their county in a new light.
Although 5 minutes may sound like no time at all, you’ll get the chance to fly around the local area, while your pilot points out some of the top sights that you may not have recognised at first from so high up.
The surrounding countryside will be a breath-taking sight, and the feeling of flying in a helicopter is unlike any other. Then, before you know it, it’ll be time to come back down to earth. After all that excitement, you’ll get a well-earned glass of bubbly and the chance to indulge in some delicious chocolates - adding the perfect celebration to a short but exciting helicopter ride.
Bournemouth 30 Minute Sightseeing Helicopter Tour
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Dorset, a captivating coastal county that stands as a shining gem in Britain's natural landscape. Indulge in the ultimate adventure with this remarkable Bournemouth, Sandbanks, Poole Harbour, and Corfe Castle Helicopter Sightseeing Tour, allowing you to marvel at the breath-taking seaside vistas that have garnered immense acclaim and adoration.
Prepare to be enchanted as you soar above the glistening turquoise sea, embarking on a captivating journey along the majestic coastline that unfolds before you. This extraordinary helicopter tour will lead you through the captivating vistas of Boscombe and Bournemouth, guiding you with grace and elegance to the captivating wonders of Sandbanks and Poole Harbour. Be sure to have your camera at the ready, for this remarkable vantage point will unveil awe-inspiring panoramas, including the spellbinding silhouette of Corfe Castle.
With its rich history spanning over a millennium, this iconic and romantically evocative ruin stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Britain's heritage. Prepare to push the boundaries of exhilaration as you soar through the skies, embracing the unknown and embracing the thrill of a new and captivating journey!
The Best Helicopter Flights in the South East of England
The South East of England is known for its rich cultural attractions such as Windsor Castle and Blenheim Palace, but also for its stunning national parks, rolling countryside and gorgeous coastal towns.
Helicopter rides are the ideal way to see each county from a whole new angle. The perfect Christmas gift for people who have a special connection to one of the southern counties, whether it’s from childhood holiday recollections or something more recent, helicopter tours are a great way to make even more special memories!
Our Top Picks
Sussex ‘Towers and Tallships’ Helicopter Tour
This 30-minute Sussex Towers and Tall Ships Helicopter Tour departs from Goodwood Aerodrome, in Chichester, West Sussex.
Once you’ve had your safety briefing and taken some windswept professional photos in front of the aircraft, you’ll get to experience the incredible vertical take off before you head toward Chichester and the harbour. There, you’ll get to take in the beautiful marina from above and possibly even do some seal watching!
You’ll then head on down to Wittering with its colourful beach huts, before passing over the beautiful Hayling Island. Next, you’ll head towards Portsmouth, where you’ll catch a glimpse of the Spinnaker Tower and the Portsdown Hill Forts, five forts built in the 19th century to protect the harbour from attacks coming in from the North.
You’ll finish the tour with an incredible view of Goodwood Racecourse before returning to the ground to discuss your exciting trip!
Oxford Helicopter Tours
This incredible thirty-minute helicopter experience begins when you arrive at the helipad, where you’ll be greeted by your friendly pilot.
After signing in, you’ll be shown to the aircraft. Climb aboard and settle in for a journey you’ll never forget. The lush, green countryside of Oxfordshire provides spectacular views when seen from above, featuring streams, railways and unspoiled farmland fit for a postcard.
You'll then begin to pass over Oxford itself, where you'll learn the fascinating 800-year history behind the town that royalty and scholars have called home for generations. Landmarks include the university, the River Thames, and the beautiful cathedral.
Your pilot, an experienced guide on all things Oxford, will provide commentary throughout your flight, so by the time you land you'll feel like an expert yourself!
Experience one of the South East's best-known landmarks from above!
When you have been given your helicopter headphones and you are securely fastened in the aircraft, you'll start your adventure and depart from Goodwood Aerodrome and Motor Racing Circuit. Up, up, up you go... Before you know it you'll be 1,200 feet above the ground, looking down on Goodwood's main attractions including Goodwood House, Goodwood Racecourse, The Kennels, Goodwood Golf Course, the Goodwood Motor Racing Circuit and Rolls-Royce.
It doesn't end there; you'll then fly to the South of Chichester towards the South Coast and fly over the historic Tangmere Airfield. Be one of few people to say they have flown in a helicopter covering 18 miles in just 10 minutes time!
Helicopter Flights London
The United Kingdom’s capital city is full of exciting sightseeing attractions and beautiful monuments. What a lot of people have never realised is that these sights are even more exciting from up in the air.
There are several helicopter flight companies operating around London. Due to difficulties in take-off/landing permission right in the centre of the city, many of these flights are located around the borders of London. However, we promise that the journey outside of the capital is more than worth it for the unreal experience of flying over the bustling big city below.
The rich history of London can be traced all the way back to Roman times. Playing a major part in medieval Britain, the city has definitely come a long way from its small beginnings. Frequently described as one of the world’s most powerful and influential cities, it’s easy to see why over 30 million tourists flock to London every year, making it one of the most visited cities in the world.
Whether you’re planning your visit for the first time, or already call London your home, a helicopter ride over central London is a unique and lifechanging experience. It makes the perfect gift for any Londoner keen to see their city from a new angle (a 1000ft vertical angle to be exact), as well as anyone looking to see London in its complete glory for the first time.
Our Top Pick
Helicopter Tour of London
Our first flight is from Excel Charters. They’re a helicopter tour company operating out of Stapleford Aerodrome in Romford Essex, perfect for any North East Londoner to get to.
This experience includes an expert tour over London for the bargain price of only £130. You’ll fly south over Essex and the North East London outskirts, before heading into the centre of London. You might even get the chance to spot your own house if you’re lucky!
Coming in from the north, you’ll be able to spot the Lea Valley River, The Bank of England (the eighth-oldest bank in the world!), The Olympic Site from when London hosted the Olympics in 2012 and the O2 Arena, originally built to celebrate the millennium in the year 2000, now one of London’s most popular concert and shopping venues.
You’ll then move on to the bigger central landmarks that we all know and love. Expect to see Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London, London Bridge and the Houses of Parliament amongst other top tier sightseeing attractions.
The Best Helicopter Tours of Wales
Wales is by far our most popular location for helicopter tours in the UK, and it’s clear to see why.
Wales not only has ‘The Valleys’ which are famous nationwide for their beautiful landscapes and rolling hills, but is also abundant in quaint seaside towns, rugged coastlines, typically British beaches and friendly cities like Cardiff and Swansea.
With the past year or so keeping us all inside, more people than ever are looking to do things out of their comfort zone, and what better way than to say yes to a helicopter tour?
Read on to find out our top picks for Helicopter Tours in Wales.
Our Top Picks
Buzz Flight Celebration Flight
When anyone is curious about flying in a helicopter, but they’re a little apprehensive or scared to dive straight in, this is the experience we will always suggest.
Not only is it perfect for anyone looking to tick helicopter flights off from their bucket list, it’s also a great way to celebrate a special occasion! If you aren’t familiar with the concept of a helicopter buzz flight, they consist of the famous vertical take-off, followed by a short 5-minute flight around the surrounding area before landing.
One Hour Gyrocopter Flight from Caernarfon Airport
Experience the thrill of a gyrocopter, a unique aircraft that combines the stability of a fixed-wing plane with the manoeuvrability of a helicopter. Its open cockpit design allows you to feel the wind rush through your hair as you take flight, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a seasoned aviation enthusiast or a curious adventurer seeking a new perspective, the gyrocopter promises an exhilarating and unforgettable flying experience.
This awe-inspiring gyrocopter adventure like no other with this exclusive one-hour gyrocopter flight experience, departing from the picturesque Caernarfon Airport. Prepare to be captivated as you soar through the boundless skies, exploring the breathtaking wonders of either Snowdonia's majestic peaks or the enchanting Caernarfon Bay coast and Menai Strait, all under the expert guidance of a seasoned instructor.
Indulge your senses and ignite your spirit of adventure as you discover the unparalleled beauty of Snowdonia or the spellbinding coastal vistas of Caernarfon Bay and the Menai Strait. This is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory, a testament to the extraordinary power of flight and the boundless wonders that lie just beyond the horizon.
Cardiff Helicopter Sightseeing Tour
We're heading to Cardiff for this next pick, which takes the form of this twenty minute, low level scenic tour.
Enjoy a journey over some of the highlights of South Wales, such as Lavernock Point, Barry Island and the historic buildings of Cardiff and Cardiff Bay.
This fantastic experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view one of the UK’s most beautiful areas from such a unique vantage point; it is an ideal way to celebrate a special occasion, surprise a loved one or just treat yourself to day out that you will remember forever!
Once you arrive at the departure point, you will check-in with the ground crew and receive a full safety briefing. You’ll then board a helicopter flown by an experienced commercial pilot, where you’ll experience the amazing power of a chopper as you fly over the 34 mile circuit.
You’ll be able to admire bird's eye views of many beautiful and important locations as you enjoy a stunning low-level scenic tour around the highlights of Cardiff and the South Wales coastline. Soaring along the coast, you'll fly over Barry Island, Lavernock Point, and the innovative architecture of Cardiff and Cardiff Bay, including the imposing Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Docks.
'Magic and Mountains' Snowdonia Helicopter Flight Tour
The helicopter flight tour departs from either beautiful Betws y Coed or Llanbedr Airfield, both located in the Snowdonia National Park.
After your exhilarating vertical take-off elevates you far above the mountains, woods and waterfalls, you'll head south-west.
As you pass over the 13th Century Dolwyddelan Castle, you'll notice more and more stunning landscapes appear beneath you.
From the historic mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog to the picturesque village of Portmerion, and on to Rupert The Bear's home town of Beddgelert, you'll have plenty of fantastic photo opportunities and a host of stunning scenery to enjoy.
Keep an eye out for Castle Dinas Emrys, where legend has it that two Dragons were once captured in a cauldron of beer and then buried under the castle!
Once you've seen the castle you'll head back towards the start point for landing, flying past Snowdon, Wales' highest mountain, along the way!
Helicopter Flights in The Midlands
The UK's Midlands are full of exciting landmarks to see from the sky.
Whether you’re from the area or not, the Midlands has a wide range of sights to see, including big city, historical and peaceful countryside tours. So, keep on reading to discover our favourites!
Our Top Picks
Helicopter Flight Tour Of Nottingham
There are a lot of top sights to catch in this fifteen-minute excursion, so make sure you’re paying close attention! From an astounding 1000ft vantage point, you’ll get to see Nottingham in a new and unbelievable way. Make sure you look out for these top attractions:
1. Nottingham Castle
Located on ‘Castle Rock’ this unique city castle is a must see for tourists, and has been rebuilt twice since its original construction in the middle ages.
2. Holme Pierrepont & Nottingham Marina
A beautiful country park, leading on to the Nottingham Marina. The vast expanse of parkland and water makes for an outstanding view from the sky.
3. Wollaton Hall
An Elizabethan country home, located on a small hill just outside Nottingham city centre, this building is now used as Nottingham’s natural history museum.
4. Sporting Grounds
This tour has not just one sporting arena, but two! The Trent Bridge Cricket Grounds and of course The City Ground stadium, home to Nottingham Forest F.C. If you’re a football fan, the incredible aerial views of the home ground will probably be the highlight of the flight!
Wolverhampton Buzz Flights
For an experience that will delight you and thrill you in equal measure, you can't beat the Wolverhampton Helicopter Buzz Flight. Not only will you get to enjoy fantastic views from this unique perspective, but you can always enjoy the magic of vertical flight!
On arrival at the centre in Wolverhampton, you will check-in with the ground crew and receive a full safety briefing. You’ll then board a helicopter flown by an experienced commercial pilot, where you’ll experience the amazing power of a chopper as you fly over the 8 mile circuit, soaring over the landscape and then settling gently back on the ground. There will be plenty of opportunities to take photos from the helicopter while you’re in the air, so don’t forget your camera!
Helicopter Pleasure Flight in Northamptonshire
Beginning at Turweston Aerodrome - a former Royal Air Force training facility - this helicopter experience will see you take in the grandest sights Northamptonshire has to offer.
Passing over phenomenal landscapes, you'll discover the sights of some of the grandest houses in the country. First, you'll see Stowe School, a National Trust park that has been host to British and foreign aristocrats and royalty.
Next you'll get a birds eye view of the current home of the British Grand Prix, the incredible Silverstone race circuit and former World War II bomber station. If you look closely enough you will be able to see the three runways used from when the site first opened in 1943. Finally, you'll experience phenomenal views of some of the grandest houses in the country: Castle Ashby and Althorpe Estate.
Once home to Diana, the Princess of Wales, Althorpe House has been in the Spencer family for more than 500 years and is now the final resting place for the late member of the royal family. Whether you're a local or visiting, you'll be astonished by the amazing views of these grand places and the grand prix!
The Best Helicopter Flights in Yorkshire & Humberside
It’s time to talk about flying around Yorkshire in a helicopter. Why? Because there’s much more to this Northern British county than Yorkshire puddings, tea and the Brontë sisters. When it comes to sightseeing, Yorkshire has got everything you could ask for: Interesting cityscapes, beautiful countryside, and quaint little villages.
What you might not have realised before is it also has a wide range of incredible helicopter tours, that allow you to see all these things and more from a unique vantage point of 1000 ft in the sky.
So, no matter where you’re from, come and discover the beauty of Yorkshire and the excitement of helicopters!
Our Top Picks
York Helicopter Flight Tour
The long-running soap Emmerdale was first broadcast in 1972, and has been in the nation’s hearts ever since.
The series is set in a fictional Yorkshire village, and has been filmed in several external locations around Yorkshire including Arncliffe and Esholt. However, all external scenes are now filmed on the Harewood Estate.
With this extended York sightseeing tour, after experiencing the historic and beautiful sights York as to offer, you’ll then fly over to the Harewood Estate where you’ll get a sneak peek at the purpose-built set, covering a portion of the estate grounds.
Be sure to keep an eye out for The Woolpack, Home Farm and much more, as your pilot hovers as low as they can for you to get a good look!
Dambuster and Chatsworth Helicopter Flight Tour
Your Dambusters helicopter flight will last for around thirty breathtaking minutes, taking off from the lovely Moorlands Pub.
After an exhilarating vertical take off your pilot will head north west, flying along the same route taken by the 617 Squadron RAF bombers as they practiced their now legendary Dambuster raids in Germany during the Second World War! You'll fly over the twin dams, with your superb helicopter vantage point offering you some spectacular views and some prime photo opportunities.
After you've seen the dams, the pilot will them turn south again, flying back over the gorgeous, dramatic Peak District and the imposing Chatsworth House.
The versatility of Helicopter flight means you can hover over these wonderful landmarks to get a view like no other! You'll be feeling thoroughly exhilarated as you land back at the Moorlands Pub at the end of your 30 minute helicopter flight, but your experience is not over yet.
This gift voucher includes a delicious carvery meal from the Moorlands, which you can choose to enjoy before or after your flight - we think afterwards is perfect, so you can show off your photos over lunch with family or friends.
Where to Fly in a Helicopter in Scotland
Scotland is known for its beautiful rural sights, and large capital city rich with history. There is no better way to see all Scotland has to offer than from the seat of a helicopter hovering 1000ft in the sky.
The feeling of flying in such an incredible aircraft alone is enough to make it a worthwhile trip, and is incomparable to any sightseeing experience you could ever encounter on the ground. The helicopter is able to manoeuvre and hover in mid-air in a way that makes it perfect for touring famous places and exploring renowned landmarks.
Whether you’re a local looking to explore your beloved city like never before, or someone discovering Scotland for the first time, there are some jaw-dropping sights to be seen and some exciting adventures to be had!
Our Top Pick
Glasgow Buzz Flight
With this thrilling buzz flight in Glasgow, you’ll get the chance to fly around the local Glasgow neighbourhoods, while your pilot points out some of the top sights that you may not have recognised at first from so high up. The surrounding countryside will be a breath-taking sight, and the feeling of flying in a helicopter is unlike any other.
Your tour ends with a celebratory glass of bubbly and some chocolates while you debrief from your bucket-list experience.
The Best Helicopter Rides in North West England
The North West of England has no shortage of good helicopter tours on offer, whether you’re looking for a city view full of sky scrapers in and architecture in Liverpool or an escape into the rolling hills of the Lake District, we think there’s something for everyone.
Our Top Picks
Lake District Helicopter Flight Tour
The Lake District is known for it’s beautiful scenery. Rolling hills, quaint countryside and you guessed it, pristine lakes. This helicopter tour will take you over all of this and more, starting in Camforth, and then heading towards the renowned Lake Windermere, which is a beautiful sight, surrounded by mountain peaks and secluded villages.
We can assure you that the view of Lake Windermere from a 1000ft vantage point is better than anything you could see on the ground (and you don’t even have to hike up a mountain to see it). On your journey to the Lake you’ll fly over Morecambe Bay, the largest estuary in the North West of England. You’ll also fly over a few of the lake’s tiny villages, including Bowness and Belle Isle.
Blackpool Tower Helicopter Flight Tour
Your Blackpool Tower helicopter flight takes off from just outside Preston city.
As your pilot takes you for an fantastic vertical take off you'll be treated to some great views of the meandering River Ribble and the Preston, before heading west towards Blackpool, passing over patchwork Lancashire countryside and small villages along the way.
As you near the town of Blackpool, you'll see the gorgeous northwest coastline stretching out on either side of the town.
When you get to Blackpool, your pilot will take you towards the tower for an incredible bird's eye view of the town's most famous landmark. Opened to the public in May 1894, Blackpool Tower is a Grade I listed building that stand 518ft and 9 inches high, and was modelled on the Eiffel Tower!
Once you've had a good view of the tower from your sky-high vantage point, and you've have a chance to take some photographs, your pilot will take you back towards Preston, for a thrilling VIP-style helicopter landing.
15 Minute Helicopter Tour of Bolton
After an exciting vertical take-off, you'll fly over Chat Moss, just west of Manchester.
This peat bog is estimated to be over 7000 years old, and a number of well-preserved bodies dating from the Iron Age have been found there over the years! You'll see the 'floating' Manchester to Liverpool railway built by George Stephenson as you make your way to Bolton.
As you fly over the city, try and see if you can spot some familiar sights! One thing you'll surely recognise as you fly over it is the Reebok Stadium, home to Bolton Wanderers FC. Make sure to take a camera with you on this Bolton city helicopter tour; you'll get some fantastic shots of the city below.
After you've flown over the football stadium you'll turn back, passing over Leigh and Atherton as you make your way back to Barton for a thrilling helicopter landing!
The Best Helicopter Rides in Northern Ireland
Looking for helicopter rides in Northern Ireland?
There are so many experience days out there to help fill your weekends and avoid being stuck at home once lockdown has ended, but a helicopter tour is an experience that will stay with you forever.
You’ll never forget the breath-taking aerial views, no matter what might be down below. You’ll also never forget that incomparable feeling of adrenaline and pure excitement as you fly 1000ft above the world; gliding, hovering, turning and twisting to see all the glorious sights that Northern Ireland has to offer.
The region is well known for its beautiful scenery, rocky coast and the largest fresh water lake in the British Isles, Lough Neagh. If you’re a city lover rather than a nature enthusiast, there’s still something waiting for you. The region’s capital, Belfast, has some amazing landmarks that are just as exciting to explore from the sky as they are from the ground.
Our Top Picks
20 Minute Trial Lesson - Robinson 22
Here at Experience Days, we sell a variety of helicopter trial flying lessons for everyone. This 20-minute flight is the perfect option for beginners, but we have 30- and 60-minute lessons available too for anyone that’s keen to become an expert pilot in no time.
We have lessons available in both Robinson 22s and Robinson 44s, two of the most famous helicopters and undoubtedly the best for learning how to fly, due to the simplistic controls. Whether you’re interested in taking your curiosity about flying to the next level, or are just fascinated to find out what it feels like to control such an exciting machine, this experience is ready to cater for you.
There will be an expert pilot by your side at all times, instructing you on how to fly. You’ll get to take the controls for a while, but don’t worry, your pilot will be right there to take over if necessary.
60 Minute Helicopter Lesson in Northern Ireland
Experience the most unique and glamorous way of flying with a thrilling helicopter trial flight in Northern Ireland in an awesome Robinson 44. Normally reserved for the rich and famous, this is your chance to get a taste of the high life in this fantastic one hour experience. You are free to sit back and enjoy the ride, or if you’ve always dreamed of soaring through the sky like a professional, you can take the controls to get the 'feel' of being airborne and discover what flying a helicopter is all about. With this one-to-one lesson, you will be well on your way to becoming a real pilot.
Your Robinson 44 Helicopter Lesson in Northern Ireland will begin with a comprehensive briefing on safety and the essential helicopter flying techniques. Next, accompanied by a fully qualified pilot, you will hop aboard an amazing Robinson 44 helicopter, where you can enjoy a magnificent vertical take-off before putting this flexible craft through its paces. You will get the chance to take the controls on the 60 minute flight, and feel the astonishing adrenaline rush of manoeuvring through the air.
Helicopter Flights in The East of England
Home to Essex; the bustling, literary city of Norwich; the pristine countryside of Norfolk; and of course, the famous academic city of Cambridge, the East of England has a lot going for it.
There's plenty of scenery to see from the unique vantage point of the sky - but below, we've included our top favourite helicopter tour!
Our Top Pick
Cambridge 5 Minute Helicopter Flight
Experience the famous vertical take-off of a helicopter and the unbeatable sensation of being 1000ft above the ground with this special Buzz flight experience from Newmarket, Cambridgeshire. This is the perfect experience for first time flyers, as you’ll only spend 5 minutes in the air before returning to the ground for a celebratory bubbly and chocolate treat!
Prepare yourself for a very special day, ticking off the all-important bucket list with a loved one. This experience makes an event out of your first flight. You’ll be astounded at the feeling of the helicopter as it hovers inches above the ground before it begins the adrenaline-filled vertical take-off 1000ft into the air.
Although 5 minutes may sound like no time at all, you’ll get the chance to fly around the local Cambridge area, while your pilot points out some of the top sights that you may not have recognised at first from so high up. The surrounding countryside will be a breath-taking sight, and the feeling of flying in a helicopter is unlike any other.
Then, before you know it, it’ll be time to come back down to earth. After all that excitement, you’ll get a well-earned glass of bubbly and the chance to indulge in some delicious chocolates - adding the perfect celebration to a short but exciting helicopter ride.
This experience is perfect for any Cambridge local who may be a little apprehensive about flying in a helicopter but are keen to conquer their fear. It also makes a lovely special occasion treat for a couple, friends or family.
Helicopter Tours North East
The North East is a beautiful place to explore - from the busy, friendly party city of Newcastle, to the magical and quaint town of Durham where parts of the Harry Potter franchise were filmed, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Take to the skies in the North East with one-of-a-kind helicopter experience days.
Read on to find out our favourite!
Our Top Pick
Tyne & Wear Helicopter Tour
This unforgettable experience will take you over the top sights Newcastle and Sunderland have to offer, including of course the rivalling stadiums St. James Park and the Stadium of Light, the Tyne Bridges, The Angel of the North and the Penshaw Monument. Experience all these and more from a breath-taking 1000ft vantage point as your pilot hovers, turns and manoeuvres you across the county of Tyne and Wear.
This 30-minute tour will give you a whole new perspective of Newcastle and Sunderland (quite literally). You’ll begin with a short safety briefing before climbing on board and beginning the adrenaline inducing vertical take-off that helicopters are famous for.
This tour will surprise you with how much you can see in just 30 minutes. You’ll start off with a Newcastle stadium tour, spotting The Falcons Rugby ground at Kingston Park and then of course Newcastle’s football stadium St. James Park. You’ll then head down towards the Tyne Bridges that link Newcastle and Gateshead. The unusual and award-winning tilt design of the Millennium Bridge is a brilliant sight to behold from up in the air.
Next, you’ll head south to Antony Gormley’s contemporary art sculpture The Angel in the North. The prominent sculpture stands to signify the transition from the industrial to the information age. You’ll then explore the South Shields area before heading South to Sunderland city centre.
Here you’ll see the Stadium of Light home to Sunderland F.C. before heading on to the Penshaw monument. If you’ve got any questions, your friendly and informative pilot will be on-hand to help as best they can. Finally, you’ll return to Newcastle Airport, still buzzing from the excitement of your aerial adventure!
This Tyne and Wear helicopter tour makes the perfect experience gift for any tourist or local who’s keen to see the city from a whole new angle.
Thanks for reading!
Thanks for reading our geographic guide to helicopter flights across the UK, updated for 2023!
We hope you've inspired you to step out of your comfort zone, and reach new heights as you soar through the sky.
Whether you're planning an extravagant Christmas gift, or looking to try something new, UK helicopter flights are a great choice.
Got a question, or a flight you think we missed? Feel free to leave a comment; we'd love to hear from you!