For the HASs, continue along Dogdyke Road and follow it round the sharp left bend. At the crossroads turn left down a track and follow it round to the right. Keep looking left for glimpses of the HASs, you may get lucky and be able to read something off. 11 Squadron's Lightning XR753 is also preserved in this area and visible from this track. Turn left at the end and again, keep looking left for views of the HASs again.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CONINGTON AIRFIELD, CAMBS - A/G 129.725
Spotting Info
In between J15 and J16 of A1(M). Take B1043 towards Conington and Holme and airfield is about 2.5 miles away, signed Peterborough Business Airport. Very friendly, ask for permission in the clubhouse and you will be escorted round. If permission is denied (and they are starting to crack down due to people spoiling it once again), there is a parking area across the road right by the end of the runway and most aircraft in the hangar can be logged from here.
Flying Club Conington
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CONINGTON-MAIN HALL FARM AIRFIELD, CAMBS
Spotting Info
Headt east out of Elsworth on Boxworth Road and turn left at the crossroads. As you enter Conington village, turn left onto School Lane and on a sharp right bend, head straight on. Head round to the right and then to the left and the hangar is at the end. Beyond it and to the left is an individual hangar.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CORSHAM-WADSWICK MANOR FARM AIRFIELD, WILTS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Corsham village on the B3109 and it's on the left. Also signposted to the Wadswick Manor County Store farm shop, take care as you approach the strip and farm shop as you drive across the end of the runway - keep a good look out.
Last reported March 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
COSFORD MUSEUM & AIRFIELD, SHROPS (EGWC) - TWR 128.65, APP 135.875
Spotting Info
2 miles northwest of Albrighton in between A464 and A41. If you're in the area, make sure you stop in, great museum and it's free. Most of the civil aircraft are in storage with no public access, though some aviation companies arrange tours round here. For the Grobs, from the M534 at J3 follow the signs to RAF Cosford. At the lights turn right and follow the road down to a crash gate, where the road bears round to the right. Continue round this road and the Grob 115s and 109s are just to your left if they aren't in the hangar. All can be read off from this road or park up in museum car park near the Brittania and walk back. If you walk through Hangar 1 you can possibly log some Grobs that are hangared and visible from the window at the end.
Cosford Air Museum
Last reported February 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
COSTOCK HELIPORT, NOTTS
Spotting Info
Head south out of the village on A60 and the helipad is about a mile on the right. They have requested that you please call in advance on 01509 856464 rather than turn up unannounced. They are very friendly, ask for access and they'll show you round the hangars.
East Midlands Helicopters
Last reported March 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
COTTESMORE AIR BASE, RUTLAND
Spotting Info
Home to just a few stored Harriers now. XW917 Harrier is the gate guard at the main entrance.
RAF Cottesmore Viewing Guide
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
COVENTRY AIRPORT, WARWICKS - TWR 118.175 / APP 123.825 / GND 121.7
Spotting Info
At junction of A45/A46, signposted well. On approach to airport along Rowley Road you get a view across the airfield and a few aircraft outside the Flying Club - hangars here are private, no access. You can turn left here though, into their car park, for views of some of their aircraft. The Midland Air Museum is next door, make sure you stop in and have a look round. Their website has a full list of exhibits. Take the next left after the museum and follow road round to right for a couple more and a different view of the airport. Midland Air Training own the hangar here, ask in reception for access and if someone is available, you'll be escorted round. Head back out and turn left onto Rowley Road again. At the mini roundabout in Baginton village, turn left and the main entrance is on the left. At the security gate, let them know you're visiting the AirBase museum and they'll let you through. You don't actually have to go into the museum, but the road leading to Airbase gives a good view of the Air Atlantique hangars and various light aircraft parked around there. However the museum is very good and the entrance reasonable so it's worth dropping in. Hangars by the terminal are AAG, housing the Dakotas et al and are accessible on open days. For good photos and to log nearly all parked near the terminal, go out of the main terminal gate, turn left, then left again after passing the end of runway into a small lane - there is now a gate at the start of this lane. If it's shut, you won't get down it.
Last reported November 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CRANFIELD AIRFIELD (EGTC), BEDS - TWR 134.925, APP 122.85
Spotting Info
Come off M1 at J13 or 14, head for Cranfield. Then follow signs for Cranfield Airport & University. Some aircraft can be viewed whilst driving around the perimeter, namely the road on the south side or the western edge of the field. At the main entrance, if the barrier is down you can either press the buzzer to call through to security, or park up and walk in to ask them. Just let them know you're visiting the airfield, flying clubs or the cafe and they'll let you in. There are numerous areas of parked aircraft so look everywhere. IAE are friendly but only open during the week - once at IAE hangar follow the signs for reception, ask for permission, and they should grant access to the hangar after a small donation. Then follow the outer red painted walkways. There are also usually a number of frames outside the IAE hangar at the furthest end from the cafe, but you won't see them until you get very close, as they're hidden by bushes. DO NOT visit IAE during the weekend, there is no one there and it will be locked up. You can try asking for access in the briefing room on the first floor of the control tower but due to recent events involving idiotic spotters wandering airside without permission and then getting abusive after being told to leave, it's likely to be denied. Cranfield Aerospace and Patriot Aviation hangars are out of bounds and Bonus Aviation hangar is only accessible from airside and therefore also out of bounds. To view the flying schools' aircraft the best place is from the car park at Cafe Pacific, accessed by heading towards the tower, take the 2nd right and it will be ahead of you. Also try the BHRA car park - head towards the Patriot apron entrance and just before turn left and follow the road to a large car park. Park near the two aircraft and you can see the taxiway up to the tower and if the doors are open, what is in the hangar. G-BMSG Lansen, XS458 Lightning and G-OHEA 125 are stored here, their positions are marked in the Spotting in the UK download for Google Earth and SatNavs. As is G-RAVL HP-137, which should be visible from up in the control tower parked outside Hangar 2.
Thunder and Lightnings' Cranfield Photography Guide
Last reported December 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CRANWELL AIRFIELD (EGYD), LINCS - TWR 122.1, APP 119.375
Spotting Info
Two miles west of Sleaford between the A17 and B1429. Travelling west on the A17 with the airfield on your right, turn left just before the 09 approach lights and pull over straight away onto the gravel waste ground. From here you can see across to the main apron and log anything parked outside, as well as into any of the hangars on this side if they are open. You can walk along the A17 grass verge for better angles just take care as it's very busy with lorries as well as cars. Heading back east along the A17, at the crossroads turn right and take the first right for the Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre. Open daily 1030-1630 from April-October admission is free so make sure you stop by to see XP556 Jet Provost outside and XE946 Vampire nose inside. Back to the crossroads and head straight over to keep the airfield on your left. Keep looking left for views of the aircraft dump, and pull in at the first gate as this leads to the dump itself, but park clear of it. XX145 Jaguar and XS710 125 are stored here with the AMIF. If you can't see it from here there may be views from the A17. Continue north along this road and you'll pass the Tutors apron on the left. Pull in at the very next track on the right but take care as it can be very muddy and leave room for access to the fields beyond. You'll then need to walk along the lane logging the Tutors from various angles. As long as the weather is good then get there early as they start flying from 8am onwards. If it's raining then the Tutors usually stay in the hangar. I believe they usually fly Monday-Friday here but days could vary depending on summer or winter months - confirmation is required. They tend to fly for 30 min to 1 hour, so you probably need to be there an hour to see all that are flying but they don't usually get put back in the hangar until the early evening. Continue north along the lane and turn left at the end onto the B1429. You'll pass by the various base buildings and then the main entrance. After this, on the left, you'll see gate guard XW353 Jet Provost - if you want unobstructed photos from inside the base you can head in the main entrance and ask the guards. They are usually ok with it.
Thunder and Lightnings' RAF Cranwell Viewing Guide
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CRANWELL NORTH AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
Literally north of B1429. Heading east on B1429, Cranwell (above) is on your right, and Cranwell North on your left. Take next left and it's on the left.
Last reported July 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CRAWLEY DOWN-BARTON ASHES AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
From the A30, head south on the A272. You'll pass Hill Farm on your right and after about a mile the strip and entrance will be on your right. The gate will only be unlocked and open when someone is present at the airfield, which is not often. They are friendly but you must ask for access first. If this gate is locked you can try the alternative gate at the southern end of the strip - continue past the first gate and take the first right signed to Crawley. The gate is almost immediately on the right. If it's open keep to the sides and drive along the grass up to the hangar at the top. Again, if no one's there, the gate will be locked.
Last reported April 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CROFT-CLOUGH FARM AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Croft village and turn left on to the A52. Take the next right just a short way up the road and follow it past Croft House. Head over the railway line, ignore the left and right turnings and the road will fork. The left turn will take you alongside the taxiway and then runway. The right turn will take you to the farm and strip.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CROFT-OVEN BANK FARM AIRFIELD, LANCS
Spotting Info
Come off the M6 at J22 and head north on A579 towards Lowton. The strip is just up on the right, opposite a track on the left, Barrow Lane. One hangar housing the residents. Ask for access, though they are cautious.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CROSLAND MOOR/HUDDERSFIELD AIRFIELD, YORKS - TWR 122.2
Spotting Info
Take A62 southwest out of Huddersfield, go through Linthwaite, airfield just east of this village. Very friendly, ask for permission to look round.
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CROSS HAYES AIRFIELD, STAFFS - A/G 129.9
Spotting Info
Home of Needwood Forest Gliding Club, directions taken from their website. Approximately 1.5 miles north of Yoxall village, turn left at the Foresters Arms public house. At the next junction (5 roads converge here), follow the sign for NFGC by taking the 2nd right turn and follow this road for about 1 mile. You will find the site entrance on your left. Airfield open on Wednesdays and weekends only, ask in clubhouse for access, very friendly.
Needwood Forest Gliding Club
Last reported April 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CROWFIELD-CODDENHAM AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK - A/G 122.775
Spotting Info
From the A14, head north on the A140, past the right turn on the B1078 to Coddenham. Half a mile up the road, turn right just before The Highwayman pub onto Buck's Head Lane, signed Coddenham Green, taking care crossing the dual carriageway. Follow the track right to the end for the airfield. Friendly, ask for access.
Crowfield Airfield, Unofficial Crowfield
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CROWLAND AIRFIELD, LINCS - TWR 129.975
Spotting Info
From Spalding, head for Cowbit, then take A1073 to Crowland. The airfield is on the right. Friendly gliding club, ask for access.
Peterborough and Spalding Gliding Club
Last reported August 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CROYDON-TOP FARM AIRFIELD, CAMBS
Spotting Info
5 miles north west of Royston. At A1198/B1042/A603 roundabout, turn onto B1042 (Tadlow and Wrestlingworth). Farm and strip on right after 2-3 miles. Friendly, ask for permission to access the two hangars. They are friendly to visitors but I must stress that they do not like reports of aircraft from here appearing on email groups or in publications. Please do not send logs or they could well refuse your entry to the airfield, as has happened at many other airfields.
Last reported July 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CULDROSE AIR BASE & MUSEUM, CORNWALL
Spotting Info
Take the A3083 south out of Helston town towards Lizard. Base is on the left after a mile. Opposite the base entrance, just beyond the overpass, is WF225 Sea Hawk gate guard. For the viewing area, head south past the main entrance on the A3083 and at the roundabout turn left onto the B3293 signposted to St Keverne. Towards the end of the long right bend, turn left signed "RNAS Culdrose Public Viewing Area" and after a sharp right bend turn left, and left again into the viewing area. Most ramps on the west side of the runway are not easily visible, although a pair of binoculars will usually get the squadron codes. You also have good views of the eastern side ramps (Merlins and the occasional Harrier), and all main runway movements.
Culdrose Museum
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CUMBERNAULD AIRFIELD, NORTH LANARKSHIRE - TWR 120.6
Spotting Info
Northeast of Cumbernauld village and signposted from the B816. Ask in tower for access, though they are no longer friendly. Good views of the apron can be had from a footpath at the top of Napier Road, before the main entrance. Go through the gate and follow the track downhill to the apron. There are also limited views from the cafe inside the main building.
Cumbernauld Flying Centre, Leading Edge Flying Club
Last reported August 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
CURROCK HILL AIRFIELD, NORTHUMBERLAND
Spotting Info
Head east out of Hedley on the Hill village and after just over a mile you'll pass a farmhouse on the left, quickly followed by a staggered crossroads. Turn left here up Engine Road, a narrow track, and the entrance is on the left. Friendly, ask for access. G-KNEK G109 lives in its own hangar halfway down the runway, you'll have to ask to see it. If it's all locked up, there are gaps at the bottom of the hangar doors to read a few off. XW249 Cushioncraft is supposed to be stored here, confirmation required please.
Northumbria Gliding Club
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DALCROSS HELIPORT, HIGHLAND, SCOTLAND
Spotting Info
Just west of Inverness airport in the industrial estate. From A96 heading southwest towards Inverness, after passing the airport take first right. Go over railway line, past end of runway and industrial estate is on right.
PDG Helicopters
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DARLEY MOOR AIRFIELD, DERBS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Ashbourne on A515. After Darley Moor raceway, take first left signed Yeaveley, and then almost immediately turn right, you'll see the windsock.
Airways Air Sports
Last reported 9 July 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DARLTON-KINGSHAUGH FARM AIRFIELD, NOTTS
Spotting Info
Head west on A57 through Darlton and turn left onto A6075. Follow the road round the 'S' bend and the entrance is on the right. Best to visit during weekends and Bank Holidays only as the hangar and gate are usually locked at other times. Friendly, ask for access.
Darlton Gliding Club
Last reported 9 May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DAVIDSTOW MOOR AIRFIELD, CORNWALL
Spotting Info
Microlight strip on the A395, just off A39, about 15 miles west of Launceston. Friendly, ask for access. Most of the buildings have microlights in and gaps to look through if locked. XG831 Gannet is preserved at the Davidstow Museum just up the road from the airfield and is signposted.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DEANLAND AIRFIELD, SUSSEX - TWR 129.725
Spotting Info
Take the A22 south to Eastbourne, go into Golden Cross and turn right straight after the Golden Cross Pub and Shell Petrol on left. Turn right again straight away. Follow road round until you see a sign on a gate that says 'North gate'. Continue until you get to an identical gate with 'South gate' on and drive through. IF no one is here the gate will be locked with a keypad, barring entry. Follow track and you will get to a small hangar used for maintenance. This is known to be a private airfield and although the owners are friendly, if he isn't there, the engineers are extremely rude and unhelpful.
Deanland Airfield
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DEENETHORPE AIRFIELD, NORTHANTS - TWR 127.575
Spotting Info
Head east out of Weldon village on the A427 towards Oundle. After a sharp left bend you'll pass a building on the left, followed by a left turn down a track. The road then slowly bends round to the right, take the next left turn, it's up an unmarked, rough track. Spotters aren't usually welcome here, with no access to hangars, but you're able to log everything outside and if the hangars are open you can log from entrance.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DEFFORD-CROFT FARM AIRFIELD, WORCS
Spotting Info
From Defford village head south on the A4104. Head over the railway line and take the second road on the right. Around the bend it splits into five tracks, take the first - a sharp left. At the end, this track splits into 3, turn left here and follow the track around to the right for the strip. Friendly, ask for access. Note there is a disused airfield just north of here which this entrance does not lead to.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DEIGHTON AIRFIELD
Spotting Info
Head south out of Naburn on B1222 and take the first left onto Moor Lane, signed to Deighton. After about a mile, you'll see the runways on your left, take the next left for the strip.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DENHAM AIRFIELD (EGLD), BUCKS - A/G 130.725
Spotting Info
Head north into Denham Green on the A412 and turn left onto Denham Green Lane - the airfield is signposted. At the top turn left and the main entrance is on the right after the nursing home.
Main Entrance/South Side Spotting Info
Do NOT park next to the crash barrier, which is also on a bend on a narrow track. Follow the road round past the control tower and light aircraft and park up sensibly. There are plenty of parking spaces, and walk back logging as you go. If you follow the road round you can often see into helicopter hangars on other side of field and get a different angle on those parked northside. If you wish, you can ask for airside access in the tower. If you have a hi-viz jacket it is sometimes granted but only really useful for photos as all aircraft can be logged from here or from northside looking across.
North Side Spotting Info
Turn left out of the main entrance, follow the road round the perimeter and take the first left. This is the north side entrance. Park in the car parks and you can see the helicopters and aircraft parked outside hangars by walking up to (but NOT through) the numerous closed gates. The first few buildings house European/Premiair (no access), HFS (not sure about access, please advise) with the last hangar, Heli Air, accessible via small donation to charity. Just go in to their office by the hangar and ask at the first door on the right. You will usually be given access to the hangar, but not the ramp, which isn't really necessary as views from around the airfield will enable you to get what's parked outside this hangar. A small contribution to the Church collecting tin, on the desk by the Secretary's door is requested. Get back in the car and continue down road. You get to another hangar with more light aircraft outside. Others usually ok when asked for permission but European Air no access at all. You can drive nearly to the end and walk even further to log the Cirrus' - the numbers here continue to grow. There is also a cafe here which gives good views over the airfield. Just follow the signs to the 'Crew Room' and then follow the path in front of TAA. There is a little viewing enclosure there with good views along the front of Heli-Air, HFS and Premiair as well. You can read all northside residents from the patio and some of the more difficult southside residents may also be viewable from here.
Denham Aerodrome, Denham Airfield Residents Photos
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DENTON-CLIPGATE FARM AIRFIELD, KENT
Spotting Info
Head south on the A260 from the A2. Go past the golf course and just before you reach Denton village, turn right down Agester Lane signposted for Lodge Lees. Take the second right and after the sharp right bend the airfield is on the left. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DEPPERS BRIDGE-POPLARS FARM AIRFIELD, WARWICKS
Spotting Info
Believe it's the home of Skydrive Rotax Aircraft Engines, though confirmation needed. Leave the village on B4451 to Southam, go over the railway and it's on the left.
Skydrive
Last reported May 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DISHFORTH AIRFIELD, YORKS - TWR 122.1, APP 125.0
Spotting Info
Exit A1(M) at J49 and follow signs. RAF airfield so no entrance but there are lay-bys on the A168 for you to pull in and have a quick look over the fence for views of the ramp, but with Lynx helicopters any heat haze and you'll struggle to read them. But they do park on the flight line side onto the A168. Parallel to the A168 is the main runway so any fixed wing approaches or visitors will be right next to the road.
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DONCASTER/ROBIN HOOD FINNINGLEY AIRPORT, YORKS - TWR 128.775, APP 126.225
Spotting Info
Heading north on A1(M), come off at J34 and turn right on A614 to Bawtry. Head through Bawtry and the road becomes A638 to Doncaster. After 3.5 miles turn right in to Hurst Lane signed to Auckley and after 1.5 miles, turn right at the crossroads in to Hayfield Lane. Airport is on the right in less than a mile. Best place at the moment is Old Bawtry Road that runs parallel to the main runway giving an unobstructed view, running down to the old quarry site and adjacent to the old tower. It's accessible from Finningley Village Green, past the Harvey Arms pub. At the very end of the lane it's possible to see across to the terminal and all stands are visible from here. As this is where they are building the new fire station, be aware that a lot of site/construction traffic are currently using the road. There is also a good public path with the sun behind you most of the day. Drive out of Doncaster on A638, passing the passenger road entrance. Turn left signed Austerfield which takes you past the 02 threshold. At the roundabout take the old road/lane that goes off to the left sharply right up the east side perimeter fence. You can drive along the fence for about a mile and walk beyond that close to the control tower. The only view at the terminal now is a fence to the left of the terminal as you look at it and you can use 15 minutes free parking to jump out and have a look.
Doncaster Sheffield Airport Forum
For airport parking visit 
or 
Last reported August 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DONCASTER-AERO VENTURE MUSEUM, YORKS
Spotting Info
The South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum has all the information including directions, entrance fees and exhibits. Very poorly signposted, best accessed from the A638 and follow the signs to 'Lakeside'. There are a lot of unmarked and covered up aircraft here so don't be shy to ask the staff for help in identifying them, they are very helpful and friendly. If you want to look round the back at the storage areas, it might be wise to phone ahead as this depends on staff availability but if they can help you they will.
Last reported August 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DOVER-WALDERSHARE PARK AIRFIELD, KENT
Spotting Info
A glider site, home of the Channel Gliding Club with fixed wing based as well. Head east out of Eythorne and turn right just before you get to A256. Turn right again and the strip is on the left.
Channel Gliding Club
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DOYNTON-ROOKERY FARM AIRFIELD, GLOUCS
Spotting Info
In the centre of Doynton village, turn northwest on to High Street and go over the river. The road then immediately bends left. You need to carry straight on (and slightly to the right,
NOT right turn in to Mill Lane) and in to Rookery Lane. Ignore the first road on the right that doubles back, carry on up the road and the track that leads to the strip is on the right. Ask in cabin for access to hangar.
Last reported July 2005. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DRAPERSTOWN/BLACKHILL AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
About 2 miles northeast of Draperstown. Follow the B41 Tobermore road northeast out of Draperstown for about 2miles and it's on your right.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DRAYTON ST. LEONARD-MANOR FARM AIRFIELD, OXFORDS
Spotting Info
From RAF Benson, head north on A4074 towards Oxford. At the fourth roundabout (where left takes you on A415 to Abingdon), turn right 3rd exit signed Berinsfield and Drayton St Leonard. Follow the road around to the right and just keep going. This road is rather narrow after passing Wally Corner where the road bends to the left with a road off to the right, which nowadays goes nowhere. The road has some interesting bends in it too so drive carefully. When you approach Drayton St Leonard, turn left at the war memorial then right at the church (a 90 degree blind corner). Follow the road past the Catherine Wheel pub, then left signposted to Stadhampton and Thame. The farm entrance is on the right at the next bend. YLAC have leased a dutch barn type building from which to finalise their aircraft for delivery to their UK customers.
Last reported November 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DRUMSHADE AIRFIELD, ANGUS
Spotting Info
Head north through Glamis on A928, it's about 2 miles on the left and signposted. Go over Dean Water and take the second left. Follow the track to the end. Very friendly, ask for access.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DUNDEE-RIVERSIDE PARK,
Dundee City, SCOTLAND
- TWR 122.9
Along A85. Tayside Aviation are usually
helpful.
DUNGANNON-DONNYDADE AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
Head southeast out of Dungannon on the A29. After 2 miles cross the M1 at the roundabout and half a mile on turn right onto a single track road. The strip is on the right after half a mile, it's just south of the A4 duel carriageway coming off the M1. Closed on Sundays.
Last reported July 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DUNGANNON-TULLYALLEN AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
Leave Dungannon on the A45 heading southwest for about 2.5 miles to the A4. Turn right heading west for around 3 and a half miles and turn right onto a side road. After 100 yards turn right then after 50 yards turn left. The airstrip is on the right.
Last reported July 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DUNKESWELL AIRFIELD, DEVON - TWR 123.475
Spotting Info
Village is signposted from A30 at Honiton. Drive north through village and airfield is on left. A few aircraft parked outside clubhouse but continue along the disused taxiway which takes you to the other
side of the airfield where there are numerous hangars. Take great care and keep a constant lookout as you drive under the final approach for the runways. Very friendly airfield, just ask for access at each hangar.
Dunkeswell Aerodrome Movements
Last reported March 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DUNSFOLD AIRFIELD (EGTD), SURREY - A/G 119.1
Spotting Info
Just east of village. No access from main gate but XL621 Hunter (G-BNCX) is the gate guardian. The aircraft are in hangars, however if they are flying the best location is the far side of the field on a back road from the A281 to Dunsfold. There are various stops along the road and walk up to the airfield boundary. Views can also be had from the A281, you can clearly see the aircraft through the hedges. Park in a lay-by on the A281 north of the airfield and take the 5 minute walk down to the perimeter for views of the BA B747 over the far side next to the old control tower, the South African DC3
north side and the MediVac helicopter on the south side if it's outside its hangar. Continue south down A281 and turn right at Alfold Crossways onto Dunsfold Road. Follow this to crash gates by a pub for
different views. There is a view on the north side of the airport - from the lay-by head north on A281 and take the first left onto Barrihurst Lane. Bear left at the triangle junction onto Stovolds Hill (B2130), the road bends sharply right and left, then take the second left - High Loxley Road. Follow this to the end for the view - please note if you cross the gate you will be trespassing on the farmer's private land.
Last reported April 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DUNSTABLE AIRFIELD, BEDS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Dunstable town on the B489 and turn left at the first crossroads (right is to Totternhoe and Church End), it's signposted. A once friendly gliding club has been ruined by (yet again) a few stupid spotters who saw fit to lift the covers of gliders for the registration, instead of looking under the wing or just leaving them for another day. This compromised the safety checks of the pilots waiting to fly them, which had to be redone. You can ask in the office for access - it will likely be denied, but you should be allowed to watch the activity from the apron as long as you don't wander off. You can see most from here but if they're launching from the other end of the airfield you may not be allowed to drive over there.
London Gliding Club
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DURHAM TEES VALLEY/TEESSIDE AIRPORT, DURHAM - TWR 119.8, APP 118.85
Spotting Info
On A67 east of Darlington. Between the two main hangars are views of the biz ramp but don't loiter down here. Drive down, quickly log and then leave or you'll be moved on. Turn right past the hangars and round to the left, ignoring the first right turn. Take the next right for views of the FRA ramp and light aircraft. At the other end of the large GA hangar is a crash gate with good views of the ramp and the hangar if it's open, but park well clear of the gate. To your left here is the cargo building, the other side of this is another spot for a different angle on the GA ramp. The fire dump is near the threshold of runway 23 on the eastern side of the airport, and most of the aircraft are visible from most areas of the airport and access road - G-AWZS Trident complete, G-BKIE SD330 forward fuselage marked "G-JON", G-AZLS Viscount fuselage are here and plotted in the Spotting in the UK download. Also present here is XP330 Whirlwind in a very bad state. In the south eastern corner is the fuselage of Viscount G-AZNC. For any parked north side amongst the Serco Fire School buildings, near the hangars next to the terminal, follow the signs for Care Martyn/Spa Hotel on the road to the hangars/flying clubs. They'll be just round the corner. There may be some south side, located alongside the old runway 1 threshold, visible from the terminal areas at the railway station end. Aircraft parked at FRA are best viewed from the freight centre crash gate.
Teesside Airport Movements. For airport parking visit
or
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DURLEY-HILL FARM AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
Head south on B3354 towards Botley. As you come in to Long Common turn left on Maddoxford Lane. After about a mile you should go over a stream and then turn left down Nether Hill Lane. Hill Farm is signposted on the left. Follow the gravel lane up past the farmhouse and you will see two workshops on your left. Ask in the caravan or the workshop for access. If you carry on up the track, there is a hangar at the top on the right but you have to ask to be escorted up here so they can open it for you. Home of Aero Antiques. Best to visit during the week as they aren't always around at weekends.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
DUXFORD AIRFIELD-IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM, CAMBS - TWR 122.075
Spotting Info
Just off J10 M11. As this is a huge war museum you will need to pay to get into the airfield so I recommend only visiting for the flying displays - its well worth the trip and the money. To view any visitors parked on the apron you can read most things off from either the lay-by on the A505 opposite the main entrance, or from the museum car park, which you don't have to pay to go into. You can also view from Grange Road across the back of the airfield near Duxford village - at J10 of the M11 turn right towards Cambridge and turn right again at the roundabout. You'll pass a school on your left (£7 a day parking during the big air shows) and turn right not longer after, down Grange Road. This will take you over the M11 and has views to the right over the airfield.
Duxford Residents Checklist
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EAGLESCOTT AIRFIELD, DEVON - TWR 123.0
Spotting Info
Southwest of the CAA Burrington radar site, take the A377 from Exeter towards Barnstaple as far as Bow, then the A3124 towards Bideford. After Winkleigh take the B3217 to Middlemoor Cross (the radar station). Eaglescott airfield should be signposted from this point forward. Turn right onto the minor road and first right again. Airfield entrance is on right. Ask in the clubhouse for access. Beyond the clubhouse is a small hangar housing gliders and some more parked on the grass. Head back to the entrance for the main GA hangar and workshop round the back, with two Cadets hanging on the wall and a Bensen in the roof of the workshop. A few aircraft are stored on the wall and at the back. Beyond this hangar there are aircraft parked on the grass and a new hangar beyond that.
Eaglescott Airfield
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EARLS COLNE AIRFIELD, ESSEX - TWR 122.425
Spotting Info
Head south out of Earls Colne airfield on B1024 and turn right after about 1.5 miles south of village, signed Essex Golf and Country Club. Follow the track round and airfield will appear on your left. Park in car park behind control tower. If you're lucky a back door to the hangar will be open to have a peak inside as they don't allow access here. If you see anything you can't identify they will give you the registration in the clubhouse though. As you drive back, at the first bend there is a track straight ahead. Go down there as the left and right hangars contain aircraft. The middle one used to house helicopters but they have now moved to the airfield side and it's just for industry equipment now. Back onto road again and although aircraft are parked at an angle, if you crawl along the hard shoulder you will be able to pick up everything.
Anglian Flight Centres
Last reported 30 June 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EAST FORTUNE MUSUEM OF
FLIGHT, East Lothian, SCOTLAND
On B1347 south of village. Two main museum hangars and you may have to ask for access
to the storage hangar. Museum
website http://www.nms.ac.uk/flight/.
Updated 12 February 2005
EAST FORTUNE, East
Lothian, SCOTLAND
Microlight strip on opposite side of road to the Museum of
Flight and just 400 yards up the road.
Ask for access, though be warned, it’s often refused. Website http://www.eosm.co.uk/.
Updated 12 February 2005
EAST GARSTON-MANOR FARM AIRFIELD, BERKS
Spotting Info
Head southeast out of Eastbury, towards East Garston. As you enter the village, turn left (Rogers Lane?) and left again (Front Street or Station Road). Head left immediately (Station Road?), follow round to right and it's the first farm on the left. The barn on the right contains Gazelle helicopters and at the top of the slope at the end of the barn, is the airstrip. Very unfriendly, do not visit without prior permission.
Last reported 7 February 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EAST KIRKBY MUSEUM, LINCS
Spotting Info
Just south of the village.
Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EAST PENNARD-LOWER WITHIAL FARM AIRFIELD, SOMERSET
Spotting Info
Head south out of Wraxall on A37 and after 2 miles turn right to Stone. Head through Stone, and halfway along the long left band bend you'll pass a house on the left. Turn right not long after the house
down a track. Go through the field and you'll be at the end of the runway. Take care and keep a good lookout, drive parallel but not along the runway, the hangars are halfway along.
Last reported March 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EAST WINCH AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
Head east out of village along A47 and turn left signed East Walton (if you cross the stream and enter West Bilney you've gone too far). Airfield is on left after a mile. Ask in the hangars for access, friendly, though you are only allowed to log from outside the hangars.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EASTERTON AIRFIELD, MORAY
Spotting Info
From the club's website: "From Rothes and the south, take the A941 north towards Elgin. Pass the car sales garage at Fogwatt on your right, and shortly after the end of the 50 mph zone take the road on the left, signposted Birnie, just before the block of trees. Follow the Birnie road all the way to a T-junction. Turn left here and follow this road for half a mile until you come to the signpost on the left at the entrance to the airfield". Very friendly, ask for access.
Highland Gliding Club
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EATON BRAY-PARK FARM AIRFIELD, BEDS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Billington village on the A4146 and just before you leave the village turn left onto Stanbridge Road. Just up the road here take the first right onto The Rye and after approximately a mile, turn right signposted Park Farm Fisheries. Take extra care as you drive down towards the strip - the road drives through the runway and taxiway so extreme caution and a good, constant lookout is required. Follow the road right round to the left for the hangars.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EDBURTON-TRULEIGH MANOR FARM AIRFIELD, SUSSEX
Spotting Info
Head west out of the village and take the first right. Strip is on the right. Gaps in hangars if they are locked.
Last reported March 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EDDSFIELD-OCTON CROSS ROADS AIRFIELD, YORKS
Spotting Info
Head north out of Langtoft on B1249, the cross roads are no more than 2 miles away. Not usually anyone there unless the weather is good so best to contact in advance to arrange a visit, otherwise it'll be locked up. Friendly, ask for access.
Eddsfield Airfield
Last reported February 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EDINBURGH AIRPORT, EDINBURGH CITY, SCOTLAND - TWR 118.7, APP 121.2
General Spotting Info
On A8, just off J1 M9. Excellent viewing airside with the new pier giving good views of the cargo and biz jet ramps though a lot of windows have been boarded up with pictures. Viewing is not easy landside though it is possible to view cargo, the Flybe and the biz from upstairs. You can walk to the other end of the terminal to see the ramp where Midland and others seem to park. G-BMXD F-27 is stored near the railway line near runway 30 threshold. TC-MBG F-27 is also stored.
Bizjets and General Aviation
For the ExecAir biz and GA terminal turn right at roundabout outside Airport Hilton (which is on access road to the airport from the A8) - usually has a few biz parked outside but a word of caution, they don't like spotters. Past here is the Caledonian Aviation maintenance hangar. Drive up to the right past this to their car park for the based light aircraft, and some that are on the Cargo terminal can be seen from here.
06/24 Movements - great for photographs
1 - For great photographs of, and to log, 06/24 movements, upon leaving the terminal, turn right at the second roundabout (the one with the Hilton hotel off it) and turn right at the T-junction towards the Quality Hotel. Don't go into the hotel entrance, but instead, go virtually straight ahead (bearing very slightly left) and you'll be in the car park for the Ingliston Sunday market (so don't go on a Sunday). You can get very close to the runway here.
2 - Head into Kirkliston and head east along Main Street from the main crossroads. At the end of the road is a crash gate. Park up sensibly, walk left of the crash gate following the fence and you will come to an opening and raised area excellent for photographs and logging.
Cargo Terminal & Biz
For Cargo, leave the airport and head towards Edinburgh on the A8. You'll come to a big roundabout at the end of the Edinburgh City Bypass (A720) with an underpass going through the middle of the roundabout. Take the underpass and you'll see a set of traffic lights. The Marriott Hotel is on the right hand side, also on the right is the Gyle shopping centre, which is a good place to leave family while you spot. Just before the traffic lights there is a slip road to the left (you'll see a shop called Marionville Models). Take this and turn left into Turnhouse Road. Follow this to the end where you will arrive next to the cargo ramp. You can also take landing shots from here if runway 24 is in use, which is the most common runway. Now if there is anything parked on Block 30, basically at the end of Runway 12/30, then here's where you get near enough to take photos. When coming along Turnhouse Road you first pass a factory on the right hand side. You'll go along for a bit, passing a farm again on the right. Then there is a road on the right (opposite a cottage on the left). This takes you down behind a farm and takes a 90 degree turn to the right onto an unpaved road. You cross a railway bridge and the road takes a 90 degree turn to the left. At that point there is a gate on the right from where it should be possible to photograph anything parked there. There are often bizjets parked here. If you fork left from Turnhouse Lane before you get to the right hand turn, this is Craigs Road and also has views of the biz parking on the old 30 threshold also known as Block 33. You can also view the GA and east apron from opposite the golf club and the GAT and helicopter parking area can also be seen through the foliage on the left just after you cross the railway line.
Edinburgh Airport Planespotting Hotels
The Quality Inn is ideal for spotting. It is located by the Highland Showground car park, which is one of the usual places to spot from. Only two storeys high, but with an airport facing room there are
no obstructions so views are good. A 1st floor room would of course be the best.
EGPH Edinburgh Airport, Taxiway Alpha Edinburgh Forum
For airport parking visit
and
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EGGESFORD-TRENCHARD FARM AIRFIELD, DEVON - TWR 123.5
Spotting Info
Strip is just north of Coldridge village. On B3220 turn off and head through Coldridge, continue northwards, over the river, and left at the T-junction. Strip is on left after less than a mile, about a quarter of a mile past the windsock. Friendly strip, ask for access. To the left of the airfield entrance is an open, rundown wooden hangar/shack with an aircraft in it. In the workshop beyond the main hangar there are frames and fuselages against the walls and hanging from the ceiling. Head north out of the strip and Trenchard Farm is on the right. Here you will find 3 fuselages stored in a barn.
Eggesford Airfield
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EGGINTON/DERBY AIRFIELD, DERBS - TWR 118.35
Spotting Info
Southwest of Derby. Come off the A38 onto the A5132. Head west, ignore two turnings to Egginton, then take the next left, a small road to the airfield, after a sharp turn on a bridge. You must report to the office first to ask for access, because they are understandably upset at people wandering around without asking - they are very friendly, so please don't spoil this. They'll show you around and talk about the frames and it's always an enjoyable visit. You can only gain access to the workshop with an escort and a donation is always appreciated, and well deserved in many opinions. If you aren't allowed in the workshop they'll read off the registrations for you. Beyond the hangars are the wrecks of G-BUAO Luscombe, G-OFLG TB10 and D-EGEU PA22. In it's own portacabin is the superb restoration project DH88 Comet G-ACSP - they'll have to open it up for you but are usually open on Wednesday afternoons and we are very welcome to visit them. G-BETE Rollason Beta B2 is also under construction here in a separate part of the maintenance hangar and only visible if they are working on it.
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EGLINTON/CITY OF DERRY AIRPORT, N. IRELAND - TWR 123.625
Spotting Info
To the north of the A2, about 6 miles east of Londonderry. The Flying Club is at the end of a minor road leading up to the airport before the main entrance to the airport if coming from Londonderry. On the final approach to runway 26, if the tide of Loch Foyle is relatively low, you can still make out the wing and fuselage section of WB375 Firefly, resting here since 1954.
Last reported April 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ELKINGTON-WOODSIDE FARM HELIPAD, NORTHANTS
Spotting Info
After leaving the A14 at junction 1, head north on the A5199 towards Husbands Bosworth. Take the first left after about a mile and almost immediately turn left again. Follow this road over the top of the A14 and turn right at the T-junction. Follow this road back over the A14 and the road bears to the left. The farm is on your left and this is where any helicopters parked outside can be seen. Park on the side of the road and you can read them off from the road. A public footpath also runs through the farm. Steve, the owner of this often busy helicopter maintenance facility, is very friendly and if there's no one at the workshops, ask at the cottage on the left as you drove in to see if someone is available to show you round. Or, of course, call in advance to arrange the best time to visit.
Last reported March 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ELLISTOWN-LITTLE BATTLEFLATS FARM AIRFIELD, LEICS
Spotting Info
Head east out of Ellistown village on Beveridge Lane. You'll pass fields on your right, then turn right down a track just before the bridge over the railway line. Keep a good lookout in both directions as you pass the runway threshold and follow the track, which runs alongside the taxiway. Carry straight on to the hangars. Very friendly, ask for access. Various barns with gaps contain the residents.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ELMSETT-POPLAR HALL FARM AIRFIELD (EGST), SUFFOLK - A/G 130.90
Spotting Info
Head north out of Hadleigh on A1141. After going over crossroads (where turning left leads to Kersey) take next right (after maybe half a mile). Take next right and go over river. Head straight through Whatfield towards Elmsett. Before you get to Elmsett, after a mile, turn right into the airfield and farm. There is a memorial at the entrance so you won't miss it. The last building used to be a hangar, though there may still be one or two in there - this may also be the maintenance hangar. Follow the signs to the car park. Ask in the cabin for access - this is a friendly airfield.
Elmsett Airfield
Last reported July 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ELSTREE AIRFIELD, HERTS - TWR 122.4
Spotting Info
Take the A411 west out of Elstree town and take the first right down Aldenham Road, signed towards the country park. Take the second left and then turn right on a left bend. The airfield is signposted. Friendly, ask in the control room for access. It should be granted for you to walk out amongst the residents but they ask you not to go in the hangars. When you get to the hangars, if someone is in there, you can ask them for permission to enter, it's often granted as long as you don't touch anything. There are aircraft parked in a dip just beyond the main taxiway but before the runway. You may, or may not be allowed to walk down to the dip but they can be logged from various points during your walk around. The large main hangar has two parts to it. The smaller west part holds helicopters and the doors are sometimes open - on your right as you drive in. The larger east section holds the resident light aircraft.
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ELVINGTON-YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM, YORKS
Spotting Info
Southeast of York but northwest of Elvington just off B1228. Home of the Yorkshire Air Museum.
The Yorkshire Air Show
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ELWOOD HELIPORT, NORTHUMBERLAND - A/G 123.175
Spotting Info
Head east out of Barrasford and it's immediately on the left. Busy and popular heliport, worth popping in if you're in the area.
Aerial Solutions
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EMPINGHAM-SHACKLEWELL LODGE FARM AIRFIELD, RUTLAND
Spotting Info
Head east out of Empingham on A606 towards Stamford. After a long left hand bend the Lodge is on your left. Turn right opposite the Lodge and the strip and two hangars are half a mile on the right. Aircraft are easily visible through the doors if no one is around to ask for access.
Last reported March 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ENGLISH BICKNOR-SPENCE AIRFIELD, GLOUCS
Spotting Info
Take the A4136 Coleford-Upper Lydbrook road and turn off towards English Bicknor. After a mile or so there is a left turn to the village. Fork right and you'll pass a brick wall on the right. Immediately after that there is a gate on the right. Go through but remember to shut the gate as sheep graze in this field. Drive slowly, mind the sheep, and if it's been raining recently be careful where you drive as you might get stuck. Follow the track round the field and to the left, through the next gate, shutting it behind you and turn right. Follow this track all the way round to the left and you'll pass the first hangar on the right. Down and to the left you'll see more hangars. Ask in the clubhouse down here for access, very friendly. It's best to ring in advance though, as the owners will often meet you and open up the hangars.
Last reported December 2005. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ENNISKILLEN-ST. ANGELO AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
4 miles north of town off A32. Friendly, ask at the tower for access to the eastern apron area. There are two hangars and an apron on the west side with their own separate entrance.
Last reported December 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ENSTONE AIRFIELD, OXFORDS - A/G 129.875
Spotting Info
Village is on A44, take B4030 east and airfield is on left after crossroads with B4022. It's well signposted. There are three parts to this airfield but both roads leading to the north and south sides are full of potholes so take care driving. The first is the southern side where the signposts lead you. Ask in the clubhouse for access to the microlight hangar, it's usually only granted if someone is around to escort you round the hangar. There are also a few aircraft parked beyond this hangar and G-MVHI Thruster is dumped around the back of it. There's also an old glider, BGA1379/CAB, stored in a broken box. The second and third parts are on the other side of the runway, northside. Exit the airfield turning right, then turn right again. Continue a short way down the road until you reach a hole in the hedge on the right with a small wooden flying club sign. Turn in here and follow the old taxiway right the way round to the control tower. Ask in here for access to the small individual hangars. You will have driven past one large hangar open both sides and with aircraft parked out on the grass opposite, this is the third part and you need separate permission from that given at the control tower. Ask someone here for access to the hangar, they are also friendly. There are a couple of wrecks in the bushes, including the wings of C-FDFC Bristol Freighter, and just before the large hangar in the far section of the building are one or two aircraft and possibly in the left building as well. The wings and fuselage of G-OSFA HK36 are dumped in a skip near the north entrance. 4X-FNA Meteor (composite of WM234 nose and VZ462 tail) and G-9-444 Hunter marked as "E423", both formerly of SWWAPS Lasham, are also stored here.
Oxford Sportflying Club
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EPSOM RACECOURSE HELIPAD, SURREY
Spotting Info
The racecourse is southeast of Epsom off the B290 and well signposted. The helicopters park in the middle of the course - cross the course and walk up to the fenced area where they are all parked and by walking down the fence line you can easily read everything off.
Last reported June 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ERROL AIRFIELD, PERTH AND KINROSS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Grange towards Errol. Go over the level crossing and turn right at T-junction. Over the river and airfield is on left. The aircraft can be seen off the Inchture to Errol Road about a half mile to the east of Grange. XG882 Gannet can be seen by following the road towards Errol and looking back towards the farm buildings. You can ask the security guard to look at the Gannet and photograph it, they are usually very friendly. From standing by Gannet and looking straight ahead you can see an old low brick building on the other side of an acre, with the booms of XD403 Vampire marked as "XE897" sticking out.
Last reported October 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ESHOTT AIRFIELD, NORTHUMBERLAND - TWR 122.85
Spotting Info
Heading north on the A1 away from Causey Park, past Felmoor Park on the right, past the minor road signed to Helm/Eshott and take the next right signed Bockenfield, which comes back on itself. After about 50 yards, turn left and follow the road left to the airfield entrance. Very friendly, ask in clubhouse for access. On the eastern side of the airfield are some more hangars and individual lockups where you can read a few more off. You'll need to ask if it's ok to walk over there and if you get permission, just follow the track east though you need to climb over gates and fences to get there and it's at least a 10 minute walk each way.
Eshott Airfield
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EXETER AIRPORT, DEVON - TWR 119.8, APP 128.975
Spotting Info
On the A30 to the east of Exeter town off J29 M5. Always seems to be various stored aircraft dotted around. You can see them all from the vantage points listed below. If you're flying out, there is a cafe with a viewing terrace airside with views of the terminal stands and any aircraft northside.
1 - Honiton Road, north of the airport has a large lay-by to park in just west of the airport boundary. You can then walk down the verge alongside the road, logging as you go. Good views across the airport of light aircraft and the stored airliners. At the east end is a security gate you can walk towards for a different angle on things. It's quite a walk to here from the lay-by so if you are going to be quick you can quickly pull in here or in the nearby bus stop.
2 - From the lay-by above head west along Honiton Road and take the next left up Waterslade Lane, past Clyst Rovers Football Club. Park sensibly and walk up to the gate for a different view across the field, sometimes stored aircraft are parked round here and difficult to read off from other places, though it can get overgrown in the summer.
3 - As you approach the airport from the west along the B3184 you can read some of the airliners parked at the terminal without having to stop, though a slow crawl would be advised as long as the road is quiet.
4 - To the right of the terminal is the Exeter Flying Club for good views of the runway and light aircraft parked outside the clubhouse. If you're quick, it's possible to park in the short-term car park opposite the terminal, go to the Exeter Flying Club to log what's parked there and back to your car within the free 10 minutes. Up to an hour is £2 and there's no return within 20 minutes. If there's more than one of you in the car, you can walk through the long term car park west of the terminal to read off the airliners on the main apron.
5 - Flybe's maintenance hangars - head towards the airport exit and take a sharp left, keeping the short term car park on your left. The hangar is on your left. Just beyond this hangar is car park 4. If there is more than one of you in the car, you can walk through this car park for better views across the airfield. The staff car park at the end of car park 4 has views into the Flybe hangars.
X-Air Society, Exeter Airport Movements. These sites are excellent and show residents, viewing areas with a map and the stored aircraft - very useful as some are unmarked. Runway 26 Email Group
For airport parking visit
or
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
EXETER-MIDDLEMOOR HELIPAD, DEVON
Spotting Info
The entrance to the police helipad and estate is off the southbound A3015 though I doubt you'll get access due to the security. There may be views of the helipad from the Exeter Services or the Sowton Industrial Estate located on the other side of the railway line that runs along the eastern perimeter. The A3015 also runs east/west along the northern perimeter of the helipad, and if you walk along the pavement here, you may get views through the trees using bins.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FAIRFORD AIR BASE, GLOUCS
Spotting Info
South of Fairford village and signposted. The best views across the base are from Kempsford Road on the eastern perimeter, where there are a few places to pull in. Home of the Royal International Air Tattoo, a huge military air show that takes place over a summer weekend annually. Most of the aircraft stay until the following Monday, 'departures day', where from roughly 9am you can watch them depart over the next few hours. Several fields overlooking the base are open and allow parking and viewing for the day for a small fee. Grandstand tickets for departures day are also available, from where you can sit inside the base with an obstructed view for logging or photographing the movements.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FAIROAKS AIRFIELD (EGTF/FRK), SURREY - TWR 123.425
Spotting Info
Situated on the A319 between Chobham and Ottershaw and well signposted. Although you can't get access to hangars or airside it's my local and I love it! There are two entrances - Main and West. Take the main entrance first by following the signs. At the T-junction you can no longer turn left to see what's parked outside the Alan Mann hangars, as there is a 'No Spotters' sign and active security around. So turn right. During the summer the doors to the back of the hangars on your left are open so you may get lucky and see something. Just before you park up there is a gap between the last hangar and the clubhouse, which will net you one or two that you might not otherwise get. Park in car park, GA hangar is the large black hangar on your right. Walk round to left in front of clubhouse to see what's parked outside Alan Mann and on the apron. Now back to your car and drive behind the GA hangar, taking great care with the speed humps. On your left the wreck compound. Turn left at end of track (turning right takes you back towards A319). Drive down the West entrance road and follow round to the left. You get a different view of the based aircraft and a better view of the AM hangars and any aircraft parked outside all hangars. Handy if there are a couple you can't get from the main area. You can also walk alongside the buildings on the left up to big 'No Spotters' sign to see in the GA hangar. Turn right out of either entrance and you will see a lay-by on the right. Pull in for views of any helicopters that sometimes park here. If there are still some you can't get then take the road next to the lay-by, it runs parallel to the airfield. Park sensibly as it is a thin dirt track leading to residential housing. There were 2 Jetranger wrecks (cabin only I think) but one has possibly departed by road. However there is definitely one still south of the runway, next to an unmarked PA28 near the blister hangar - neither identity is known, could you please let me know them. Michael Baldock took this photo stating "This unidentified hulk, the remains of a Bell 206 JetRanger, is located in a field adjacent to Fairoaks Airport where it is used to train dogs for the Prison service".
Fairoaks Residents & Movements, Fairoaks Email Group
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FARLEY CHAMBERLAIN-FARLEY FARM AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
Head north out of Romsey on A3057. Take the right turn signposted to Household Recycling site (if you go into village of Timsbury you've gone too far and missed this turn). Then take next left almost immediately, still signposted to recycling. Go past the recycling site on your left and eventually you will come to a staggered crossroads. Go straight across, into Farley Lane. Keep going and eventually you will come to a left turn towards the church, marked as a no through road. Take this road and keep going. It will appear that you are heading into a farm but keep going through the farm and soon after you will see a left turn in to the strip. Then follow the track. The strip is visible once you've turned left towards the church on your left side at about 10 o'clock. It's best to visit during the week when someone is there, or contact in advance to arrange a visit. Friendly, ask for access before wandering around the strip.
Last reported March 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FARNBOROUGH AIRPORT, HANTS - TWR 122.5, APP 134.35
Eelmoor Bridge
The best place is at Eelmoor Bridge just off the A323 Fleet Road. From Aldershot, head west along the A323 and after the long sweeping left bend you'll come to a sharper left bend with a turning on the right. Turn right here and you'll drive over Eelmoor Bridge. Yellow lines have been painted but we are ok to park here. Park first on the southerly places and park sensibly, don't block the views of the cars parked higher up the slope. If this is full you can park on the yellow lines opposite but keep well clear of the crash gate or you'll be moved on. Excellent photos of movements here of 24 arrivals taxiing after landing and of arrivals and departures on 06. Aprons in view here are West 2 and Tower ramp. The Hangar ramp is blocked by the new hangar being built between West 1 ramp (in the trees) and West 2 ramp. During the summer heat haze is a big problem up here so best to visit early mornings and late evenings. During the show is area is out of bounds as it's used for the show traffic.
Other Viewing Areas & Spotting Info
The AAIB is further down this road but you can't make out anything due to the state of the wrecks and the barriers. Just before the AAIB, on the top of the hill, you can pull over quickly and read off some parked on the Hangar and Terminal ramps, and if the trees aren't too thick you can sometimes read off anything parked on West 1. For views of the Delta ramp, head to the Dairy Gate on A325 Farnborough Road. There is no parking here and DO NOT park in or near The Aviator Hotel. They are very anti-spotter due to cars parking on their property and blocking the entrance and exit so park in the lay-by a bit further down the road on the opposite side or down a side road nearby and walk back. Good views of the Delta ramp from here, and into the TAG hangars if they are open. Following the fenceline towards the houses (i.e. south along A325) and away from the Aviator (not past it), a path runs round the back giving you a different angle on the aircraft. North of the Aviator Hotel on the A325 is the Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) Museum - make sure you stop in. Entry is free, donations are welcome and the shop has plenty of things to interest you - purchases also help support the collection here. Next to the FAST Museum is the Swan pub with some good food and is a good place to watch proceedings. It expensive here however and no jeans or trainers. DO NOT park in The Swan car park unless you are a customer as they actively clamp. The road between the Swan and FAST also has views.
SBAC Farnborough Air Show
Every 2 years Farnborough airport hosts an air and trade show that always promises some excellent and interesting visitors, with various aircraft manufacturers bringing their latest and greatest aircraft. Most aircraft have left by the public weekend, so if you do want entry to the show, it's best to visit on the trade days and you can buy a ticket on the SBAC website. Fill in the online application to visit on the day of your choice, pay your £28 for a day pass and it arrives through the post, though other options are available. In the run up to, and during, the show, Eelmoor bridge is out of bounds for spotters as it's used for the show traffic, and the show tents block all views from the Dairy Gate so avoid that too.
Spotting Hotels
The Falcon Farnborough Hotel is on the A325, opposite the FAST Museum mentioned above. The 4 deluxe bedrooms at the front of the hotel overlook the airfield, many other rooms face north and have a good view of the approach to runway 24 when in use. If they're using 06 you should still see them on climb out but they'll be high. A newspaper shop and a couple of restaurants very close by and a warm atmosphere in the hotel bar.
Farnborough Aviation Group, Farnborough Movements, Farnborough Aviation Group Email Group
Last reported February 2011. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FARTHING CORNER-STONEACRE FARM AIRFIELD (EGMF), KENT
Spotting Info
Come off the M2 at J4 and head north on the A278. At the next roundabout turn right and right again at the mini roundabout onto Wigmore Road. Straight over the next mini roundabout and at the double mini roundabout junction, turn right at the first mini roundabout to go under the A278 and on to Maidstone Road. Head back over the M2 and take the first left onto Kemsley Street Road. The road winds around a bit, after a sharp left bend the road is then sheltered by trees. Follow the road round to the right and then fork right onto a track for the strip. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FAYGATE SCRAPYARD, SUSSEX
Spotting Info
Take A264 east from Horsham towards Crawley. Straight over roundabout (where right turn is B2195 to Horsham), take first left after around half a mile to Wimbush and Rusper. Go over the level crossing and continue about a mile up the hill. At the top, turn right towards Faygate, taking you along the ridge. The yard is on the right with two gates just after this.
Last reported April 2005. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FELIXKIRK AIRFIELD, YORKS
Spotting Info
Head west out of Felixkirk village and follow the road as it winds around for a bit. Head past the left turn, Marderby Lane, and the entrance is the next right. Cautious about visitors but if you have a proper conversation with them about their aircraft they'll usually let you round. If the gate is locked it's likely there's no one there and the hangars are spotter-proof so don't take the long walk up there.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FELTHORPE AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
On entering Taverham, at first crossroads turn left (Fir Covert Road). At T-junction take a quick left-right into Tavernham Road and airfield is on left. Very friendly, ask for access.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FELTON-NEW FARM AIRFIELD, SOMERSET
Spotting Info
From B3130 in Winford, head west on Felton Lane to Felton. After Raglan Lane and Long Cross on the right, turn right at the crossroads and right again at the next crossroads onto Vee Lane. There is a track just here on the left that leads to the strip. If locked up, there are gaps in the hangar.
Last reported April 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FENLAND AIRFIELD, LINCS - TWR 122.92
Spotting Info
Head west out of Holbeach St. Johns on the B1168. As the road bends sharp left, head straight on onto Jekil's Bank. After two left turns the airfield is immediately after the farm on the left. Friendly, ask for access in tower for permission, you may be given hi-viz jackets and/or a tour, but it's best to bring your own hi-viz. Hangars have holes where the wheels are so even if it's shut you can get what's inside by getting on your hands and knees. Please note airfield is closed on Mondays.
Fenland Airfield
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FESHIEBRIDGE AIRFIELD, HIGHLAND, SCOTLAND
Spotting Info
Head east along B970 and after crossing Feshiebridge, go round the bend on the steep hill and then turn right (just past the phonebox) towards Achlean. Airfield is about 1km on the right. Friendly, ask for
access. On the west side of the airfield is an old blister hangar used to store old gliders no longer flown. You need to ask specifically if you can be taken over there, as the Duty Manager will have to do it. It's very rare (but not unheard of) for this to be granted though.
Caingorm Gliding Club
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FIFE/GLENROTHES AIRPORT, FIFE
Spotting Info
Just north of the B921 before the turn off for the B922, west of Glenrothes. Follow the signs for Leslie and the Golf Course. Turn left at the Golf Course and follow this road for a mile or so and the airfield is on the left. Ask for access to hangars though it will probably be refused. A yellow jacket or vest is advised and a tour may only be possible if staff have time.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FINMERE AIRFIELD, BUCKS
Spotting Info
Head east to west along Tingewick bypass and turn left halfway along. Take the first right into a business park and there are a couple of small hangars on the right. Friendly, but you will need some form of aviation related ID as they are cautious who they let round and have sometimes denied access inside the hangar, but you can log from outside.
Microflights
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FISHBURN-MORGANSFIELD AIRFIELD, DURHAM - TWR 118.275
Spotting Info
Head north out of Sedgefield town on the A177. After the Bishop Middleham-Fishburn staggered crossroads, take the first right then it's right again before the farm, down a track. Entrance road is down in a dip and is easily missed. There is a sign to the farm and "Fishburn Aerodrome". Very friendly, ask in clubhouse.
Fishburn Aero Club, Fishburn Airfield
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FLIXTON NORFOLK & SUFFOLK AVIATION MUSEUM, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head east along B1062 out of Homersfield. Museum is about 3 miles on the left. Admissions are free but donations are welcome and well deserved. More than half the aircraft are outside but you should visit when it's open to look in the hangars.
Flixton Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum lists exhibits with markings, military and civil registrations.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FOWLMERE AIRFIELD, CAMBS - TWR 120.925
Spotting Info
At the Flint Cross A505 staggered crossroads with a petrol station on one side and Coach House guest house on the other, head northeast towards Fowlmere village on the B1368 and you will see the airfield on the left. As you pass the end of the runway, turn left on to a track and follow. Please note sometimes this gate is closed. Friendly airfield, permission for access usually granted after a donation.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FRAMLINGHAM AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
From the A12 take a left turning to Marlesford and after a couple of miles you come to the old airfield on your left. Follow the signs to the museum, go past the museum and on to the old peri track. Follow this round to the other side of the airfield. The runway is part of the old peri track and you have to drive up this to get to the hangar. Airfield rumoured to be closing down to make way for a wind farm.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FROGLAND CROSS-GRANGE FARM AIRFIELD, GLOUCS
Spotting Info
Frogland Cross is on the B4427 that runs from Rudgeway (on the A38), south to Winterbourne. The strip is to the west of this road, along a track that goes off to the west, just after passing through the village. It's virtually inaccessible by road as it involves driving through fields on different peoples land. If you fly in, the owner is friendly and allows access, with prior permission of course.
Last updated August 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
FULL SUTTON AIRFIELD, YORKS - TWR 132.325
Spotting Info
Take the A166 east out of York. After going through Stamford Bridge turn right into Full Sutton. At T-junction turn left and continue through the village. Leave the village and after a mile, turn right at the crossroads down a track. This leads to the airfield. The airfield is sign posted from the road. Follow these signs in and you get to a big notice saying "DO NOT ENTER WITHOUT PERMISSION". This is because they sometimes use the road in front of you as a runway. You'll need to be escorted to the hangars. There are two hangar areas one on either side of the runway. Head through the industrial estate, following the RVP signs and you come to the runway. The main 2 hangars are on the other side of the runway and about 100 yards along. You have to drive along the runway to get to the car park, so please keep a good lookout for any movements. Ask in the office for access. The second hangar area, one end maintenance the other spraying, is at the side of the mill at the opposite end of the runway. Can be accessed by following the runway or driving back through the mill and parking by the hangar. Also friendly, ask for access.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GALLOWS HILL-EYRE'S FIELD AIRFIELD, DORSET
Spotting Info
Head north out of Wool towards Monkey World. Once past Monkey World, the strip is on your right. Take the next right, Puddletown Road, and right again after the bend is the entrance. Very friendly, ask for access. Best to visit at weekends as they rarely fly during the week.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GAMSTON AIRFIELD (EGNE), NOTTS - A/G 130.475
Spotting Info
East of Gamston village on the B6387. Access airside not allowed but the views from below the tower are good enough to log the majority of aircraft parked outside and there should be views at either end of the hangars. You can log all aircraft parked to the left of the tower but only two thirds of aircraft parked outside. You can see most of the airfield from a road that leads to an industrial area on the south side - turn right out of the airfield entrance towards the A1 and take the first right after about half a mile. Follow the track over the rise, onto the old perimeter track and down to the industrial estate for views across. You can actually sit on the centre line about 30 yards from the current threshold. Brick Yard Road runs along the north west perimeter of the airport - turn right out of the airport entrance or the industrial estate and head west on the A1 to Worksop/Doncaster. Head past the village of Elkesley and still in the 50mph zone, take the next right, crossing the A1 southbound lane. This is after the slip road that allows a 180 turn onto the southbound carriage. Down Jockey Lane for a bit and it becomes Brick Yard Road, keep looking right for good views of the ramp and in to some of the hangars. If you're heading south on the A1, take the first left as you come in to the 50mph zone for Jockey Lane/Brick Yard Road. Keep on this road, and after the sharp left bend, park on the right in a gateway, a bit of walking from here should get you a few more.
Airfield Tours Info
Phone beforehand to arrange a hangar tour with Peter Green of ALH Skytrain. This needs to be done to make sure he is free to escort you round. £5 donation per person to the Wishing Well childrens charity and you will need ID, passport or photocard driving licence. Phone 01777 838202 ALH Skytrain. He only works on Tuesdays and Thursdays, therefore he can only be contacted and conduct the tours on these days, so factor this into your trip. He also prefers there are at least 3 or 4 people at a time to make it worthwhile as there's a lot of walking involved. The tour is well worth it, especially with the numbers of DA40s through here at the moment, but you must be escorted round and photographs are allowed. You are not allowed round on your own and please do not wander off or the tours will be stopped.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GARFORD-LANDMEAD FARM AIRFIELD, OXFORDS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Frilford on A338 towards Wantage. Past two turnings on right to Garford, past Venn Mill, go over Childrey Brook and take next left for the farm. Follow to end. Friendly, ask for access, though there may not be anyone there and hangar has no gaps.
Last reported November 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GATWICK AIRPORT, SUSSEX
Spotting Info
Off M23 at J9 and follow signs. The most important thing is to check the weather forecast before you plan to travel. Spotting at Gatwick (if on foot) when they are landing on 08 is difficult at the best of times. The wind must be from the southwest, west or northwest to guarantee they are landing on 26.
Using runway 26
If you are prepared to view the landings only (and are arriving by train), then your best bet is to spot from the end of the station platform. This is the place where you are least likely to be moved on by security (provided you have a valid rail ticket). To see departures and arrivals it is possible to get to the end of the runway - from the North Terminal, take the lift down to the ground level, come out of the lift, and turn right. Take this road under the terminal, and walk for half a mile or so. You are now by the fence at the end of the runway, and will be able to see both arrivals, and most departures (by looking over the fence). From the railway station, head for the South Terminal, turn left as you enter and head for the easyjet desks. In the far corner is a sign for the toliets and just by here is the entrance to Concorde House. Go through the white doors, follow the steps down, out through the double doors, keep walking the way you are facing and within 5 minutes you will be walking along the perimeter road. You will now find yourself at the perimeter fence right underneath the 26 approach, with a view through the fence of the threshold, most of the remote stand and pier 2 of the south terminal. It is definitely OK to be there as there are posters up encouraging enthusiasts to be on the lookout. If an extended stay at Gatwick is the aim of your trip then bring a chair and plenty of supplies. The toilets are just before the aforementioned white doors in the terminal, but there is no shelter from the weather. Another good place to park is just off the Gatwick Road. Turn right at the roundabout by the CAA building/radar and you can park along here. You should be able to get a decent coffee and burger from the girls in the van too. Walk back the way you drove to the main A23 roundabout, when you cross the roundabout walk right and there is a cut though in the hedge to go on to the perimeter road. From car to threshold about 10 mins.
Using runway 08
If they're on easterlies then drive down the road that's parallel to the runway and park opposite the Flight Tavern (good food) then walk down to the 08R threshold again about 10 minutes. If it's raining you're going to get wet.
Lowfield Heath Crash Gate
It is possible to walk to the Lowfield Heath site from the end of the runway (mentioned in above paragraph) - probably 2 miles. Continue along this road until you reach the first roundabout. Take the right hand exit (A23), and walk to the next roundabout, turn right again. The gate at Lowfield Heath is directly in front of you (200 yards). Lowfield Heath is by the side of the runway (no good for photos) and you can see movements regardless of the wind direction. But you are limited to sharing what little gaps there are with the other spotters. Either getting on the floor and peering under the gate, or looking through the gap in the handle that opens the gate. Cargo is off the left with the biz parking on the 140s stands ahead and to the right. The North Terminal is beyond the biz with the South Terminal to the right. There are no facilities (toilets/food/shelter) near by. I'm lead to believe that the 100 bus (which stops on the road under the terminal), passes by the roundabout at Lowfield Heath. The timetable for this service is available at Metrobus. Lowfield Heath MAY be considered as part of the 'Gatwick Free Bus area', in which case the cost will be free - I can't guarantee this though. There have also been a few reports of people being moved on from here by security/police. The Travelodge hotel (which is also at Lowfield Heath) operates a free shuttle to and from the airport, however it is for residents only. If you are driving down you can park up in a lay-by opposite the 'Flight Tavern' (follow A23 south from the terminal area towards Crawley, then turn off at Lowfield Heath and head towards Charlwood. Or follow the peri track around the eastern and then southern part of the airport, you'll come to a roundabout, turn right, now a dual carriageway, right at the next roundabout with a Travel Inn or similar on the right. Over the mini roundabout, crash gate is in front of you, park on the right) and walk back up the road towards Lowfield Heath and spot either at the crash gate or in a small open area by the fence. Parking near the crash gate is not a problem as long as it's done sensibly and not on yellow lines. Immediately to the right of the crash gate (as you look at the airport) is a small industrial estate. There is room for 4 or 5 cars on the entrance road alongside the old Ronson Building if parked sensibly and the tenants do seem to tolerate it. Vans are constantly in and out of the estate so be careful. At weekends there is usually no one working in the units and therefore there is more room for parking. If there is no room then go back to the mini roundabout and turn left. After 100 yards or so the yellow lines stop so park there. This is virtually in front of the Travel Inn. As the crash gate is awful in terms of viewing, if the weather is good, you can take a 10 minute walk to the perimeter of runway 26 on the access road. The terminal is in sight and gives excellent views of the airport. Alternatively, back to the mini roundabout and turn right. About half way along this road there is a foam factory where you can park without any reported problems. You can then walk to the fence where there are some gaps.
Other Viewing Spots
For a different view onto cargo than that at Lowfield Heath, from the crash gate, head back to the first mini roundabout and turn right onto Charlwood Road. This is the road that takes you to the Flight Tavern and underneath 26, but you need to take the first right you get to, into an industrial area and drive straight ahead for the cargo stands.
Airport car park
Regardless of how you arrive at Gatwick, you may want to try at the car park. This is taking a risk as generally security will remove you from the top level, however if you ask, they may be ok with you logging and photographing from the next level down - recent reports have indicated as such.
Terminals
If you are flying out then check in and go airside into the departures lounge. If you are flying from the south terminal, pier 2 gates 24 and 25 are the best. It's a 5 minute walk from the shopping area and you can get back if your flight doesn't leave from this pier. It gives a fantastic view of the runway so all movements will be logged. There is also a Costa Coffee if you need refreshments. Alternatively there are views from Yates bar on the upper level of the departure lounge. If flying from the north terminal head to pier 4, or gate 54. Anywhere along here looks out onto the airfield. The Bridge Bar in the far right concourse area has views of movements plus a couple of gates. No hassles with spotting as long as you make the odd purchase. If travelling business class or better from the North terminal with British Airways then the best place is the airline's lounge. New passenger bridge - unless you're flying from (or arriving at) gates 101-112 on pier 6 you are not going to be able to use it. The bridge is split into two sides: arriving and departing. Departure gates are on the middle level of the new terminal and arrivals on the top floor. At each end of the bridge there are 4 escalators: two up and two down, separated by glass, with arrivals being on the western side of the bridge (looking towards cargo) and departures on the east (looking towards the south terminal). Once you go up the escalators on to the bridge there is no way back. There are signs at the entrance to the bridge, advising it is for these gates only.
Hotels
The Sofitel at LGW, room 898 has superb views of the runway and main aprons. This is an upgraded room which includes a continental breakfast, free internet, access to the club lounge where free snacks and drinks can be had in the evenings. It should also be noted that the lounge has excellent views to the north and the remote stands.
The Travelodge has rooms with views but reports have suggested the hotel itself is in need of renovation. To some, this won't matter at all, especially if you just want to log aircraft, but if the room is unacceptable they will find you another one. If you book during the special offer period then this shouldn't matter but I wouldn't recommend paying a lot for a room here until reviews improve. That said, room 310 has good views and overlooks the South Terminal and 26 threshold. Room 308 has similar views, with a bed/settee by the window for comfort while spotting, and a bath (some Travelodge rooms only have showers). Teletext on the TV will give you arrivals due. No good for photography as there's two layers of glass. Room 318 looks straight out at the crash gate so see above for the views, just with the height advantage. However trees could well impair the view. As well as those listed above, any room out the back of the Travelodge facing the airport will be good enough, specifically 302-310 inclusive, evens only. The fire escape area/stairwell at the end on the same floor also has similar views. Once you've booked, ring their reception number to request the room numbers, they are very accommodating and know what you need.
Heathrow & Gatwick Airport Movements, Gatwick Spotters Email Group
For airport parking visit
or
Last reported April 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GLASGOW AIRPORT, RENFREWSHIRE - TWR 118.8, APP 119.1
Spotting Info around the Terminal
Off J28 M8. The crash gate directly behind the Loganair hangar on St.Andrews Crescent (off to the left as you enter the airport terminal one way system) is good for photos of movements on 05 but there is no parking here so no good if you have a car. You can't drive round the Business Aviation Centre (also known as Area J) on the east side but Abbotsinch Road runs right past it and with two crash gates, one at either end, you should be able to read most off. Do not go into their car park. You can walk here from the terminal, it should take around 10-12 minutes - just cut through cargo and follow the roads round to it. Campsite Drive runs parallel to Abbotsinch Road and thus runs behind the eastside hangars giving good views of the aprons. There are no views from inside the terminal landside, but once airside there are windows at the gates to watch the movements.
Spotting Info away from the Terminal
The crash gate on the northeast part of the airport on Abbotsinch Road near threshold of 23 (do not park in front of gate) for great views and photos of arrivals on 23. The crash gate close to the end of 05 on Barnsford Road is also excellent for photos of arrivals on 05. Please park well clear of the crash gates. North perimeter fence between flying club and East Yonderton Farm on Walkinshaw Road for views of both runways and terminal area. Be very careful about where you park as this is a narrow lane - you must not park alongside the perimeter fence under any circumstances, you will be moved on by security. You can park on the other side but be careful how you park as it's private land and there are signs at certain points prohibiting you from parking on the verge.
Planespotting Hotels
The Holiday Inn is the closest hotel here with a view. The airport terminal is right in front, but with a high enough room facing the airport, views should still be good.
Glasgow Airport Logs, Fly Glasgow Direct, Glasgow Airport Information. There is a letter from the airport police here and it is very encouraging that the authorities would take the time to drive round the airport looking at all the vantage points. Inside the terminal, viewing can be done by the entrance to the domestic gates.
For airport car parking visit
or
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GLASGOW HELIPORT, Glasgow City,
SCOTLAND
Address is 110 Stobcross Road, Glasgow G3 8QQ
and it’s next to the Scottish Exhibition Centre. For more info visit http://web.ukonline.co.uk/heliport/intro.htm
GLASSONBY AIRFIELD, CUMBRIA
Spotting Info
Head south through the village and it's on the left.
Last reported May 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GLATTON-MANOR FARM AIRFIELD, CAMBS
Spotting Info
Head into village on the B660 from the A1. Turn right by the church and follow road out of the village. As you leave the village, there is a metal gate on the right. This track leads up to the airfield. There is a hangar with some residents parked outside. Not sure about access.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GOODWOOD AIRFIELD, SUSSEX - TWR 122.45
Spotting Info
Just outside Chichester, airfield and racing circuit are well sign posted from A27 or A286. Go through the tunnel under the racing circuit, which leads to a car park with aircraft parked alongside the fence. The flying club and control tower are at the far end of this fence round to the left. Take a hi-viz jacket with you and ask at the control tower for access. It's pot luck on the day whether it's given or not. If there's too much going on you can try asking in the crew room or one of the fire crew, but again pot luck who's there at the time. If it's granted, you'll be allowed to walk airside logging, but not to enter the hangars. If any hangars are open and people are present inside, you should ask them for access so they can escort you or at least supervise. Some have had much better results writing in advance to The Aerodrome Administrator Miss Karen Randall, Goodwood Airfield, Chichester, West Sussex PO18 0PX. But she can also be contacted on 01243 755087. If you don't get airside access, follow the fence back to the exit, logging between the gaps in buildings. At the very last hangar, north of the tunnel, you can walk down behind it to look at the back of the hangars in case any are parked out there.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GORDON-NETHER HUNTLYWOOD FARM AIRFIELD, SCOTTISH BORDERS
Spotting Info
Head west out of Gordon village on the A6105 and it’s on the left just before a right turn to Huntleywood, approx 2 miles.
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GRANSDEN LODGE AIRFIELD, CAMBS
Spotting Info
Glider field signposted off B1046, two miles east of Fullers Hill farm. Heading west along B1046 turn right onto road signposted Cambridge Gliding club. Follow road taking notice of various signs to be aware of clay pigeon shooting and gliding ropes. This continues around perimeter of airfield to hangar and clubhouse. Friendly, ask in clubhouse for access. Ask permission to drive to the active area if the gliders are down the other end and stick to the guidelines given.
Cambridge Gliding Centre
Last reported August 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GRAVELEY-GRAVELEY HALL FARM AIRFIELD, HERTS
Spotting Info
Head north on B197 into Graveley. Turn right onto Church Lane and after about half a mile turn left into farm strip. Friendly, ask for access. There are hangars at either end of the runway with a track running between them away from the runway, all of which are accessible if open and someone is present.
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GREAT EVERSDEN-ARMSHOLD FARM AIRFIELD, CAMBS
Spotting Info
Head north out of the village, towards Kingston. After a sharp left bend there is a right turn - Armshold Lane, entrance is either down here on the left, or past it on the right.
Last reported 4 May 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GREAT MASSINGHAM AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
Town is between B1145 and A148. Heading north through village along main road turn right into airfield. Right again will take you to Hut C. Two very large hangars contain the aircraft. Drive up past the first on your left, as there is normally someone at the second hangar to ask for access. Friendly, gaps to see through if hangars are locked.
Last reported August 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GREAT OAKLEY-THE LODGE AIRFIELD, ESSEX
Spotting Info
Head north through Great Oakley village along High Street and take the first single lane track on the left. It's just before a large field. This will take you to Great Oakley Lodge. The strip is just beyond the lodge with aircraft parked in farm buildings.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GUERNSEY AIRPORT, GUERNSEY, CHANNEL ISLANDS
Spotting Info
On southern part of island. Good vantage points are available around most of the airfield to view the movements.
1 - From the first floor of the Terminal there are excellent views of the main apron and runway.
2 - Walking east from the terminal through the cargo area will take you to 'Aiglle Heaven' the hangar and apron area where many biz are based. If you contact Aiglle in advance there is a reasonable chance of them escorting you round, depending on how busy they are at the time.
3 - Next to Aiglle is the East Grass Park (EGP), mainly used as an overflow parking area during busy periods and the East Grass hangars are out of bounds.
4 - If you follow the main road around west of the Terminal and up the private road you will find the hangars bordering the West Grass Park (WGP), used by light aircraft. ASG Flight Support here are friendly and if you contact them in advance to look around their hangars it may be possible depending on how busy they are at the time as someone will need to escort you. Beyond ASG is Anglos Normandie Engineering, no access but most aircraft in or around their hangar can be visible from the perimeter fence.
5 - North of these hangars is Fire Service and down the lane west of the Fire Service is the Guernsey Aero club and their hangar facilities. A very friendly place with balcony views from their 1st Floor clubroom overlooking the main runway and taxiways. Call in and see the manager or instructor, and there would be a good chance to view the local aircraft in the adjacent hangar if someone is available to escort you. Best however to contact in advance. If you contact the airport fire department beforehand they may be able to give you a tour so you can log their training aircraft/wrecks which should include G-BAZJ HPR7, G-BBYO BN2 fuselage, N32625 PA34, N97121 EMB110, XS888 Wessex and XX466 Hunter nose.
6 - From the car park northside off La Villiaze Road near the 27 threshold, most can be read off including the GA parked in and around the Anglos Normandie abd ASG hangars if open. You can see the main apron from here as well as the Aigille hangar and no problems with spending some time here.
CI Aviation
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
GUIST-HOLLY HILL FARM AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
Head north out of the village on B1110. After passing the third turning on the right (Furze Lane), turn left, strip is at the end. They do not welcome spotters.
Last reported July 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HADLEIGH-BENTON END FARM GUNSMOKE PAINTBALL, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
South of Hadleigh town on the A12, Gunsmoke Paintball has 6 frames as part of their games - XN554 Jet Provost, XN579 Jet Provost, XP629 Jet Provost, XP686 Jet Provost, XW796 Scout, XT467 Wessex cabin unmarked. Before you get to the farm and paintball park, turn left down Hook Lane, park up by the bridge and walk across. All 6 are easy to see.
Last reported December 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HAILSHAM-WESTFIELD FARM AIRFIELD, SUSSEX
Spotting Info
Head south out of town on B2104. Upon leaving the town, turn left down Saltmash Lane, turn right towards Rickney and it's on the left. They do not welcome visitors.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HALFPENNY GREEN/WOLVERHAMPTON AIRPORT, STAFFS (EGBO) - TWR 123.0
Spotting Info
Just south of Halfpenny Green village, the main entrance is off Crab Lane that runs along the southern end of the airfield. Follow the blue line to the tower and ask for access, they will usually escort you round and a hi-viz jacket is required. Hangars may be open but if locked you can politely ask the fire service guys, who if not too busy or are going to open any of them may oblige. Some hangars, if closed, have gaps to peek through but you'll have to check with your guide that it's ok to do this. A small part of the rear fuselage of G-BYMC PA38 is dumped between hangars 4 and 5. There is an unmarked Fantasy Air Allegro c/n 07-202 in hangar 5 East that will remain unmarked until the CAA approves type certification despite this being a popular aircraft in other countries. The police helicopter area is out of bounds. If you contact them in advance to arrange a tour they are usually happy to accommodate you. There are two helicopter hangars further down from the GA area. Ask for access, one is friendly, the other is hit and miss depending on who you speak to. If you can't get access, one of these hangars has windows to look through.
Wolverhampton Airport
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HALTON AIRFIELD (EGWN), BUCKS - A/G 130.425
Spotting Info
Head north out of Halton village and it's on the right, though restricted access so best to visit during the annual DH Moth Club Fly In, where the hangars are sometimes open as well. Continue past the main entrance and shortly on your right is the fuselage of XW303 Jet Provost alongside the road but the other side of a grass mound. You can make out the top of it but you'll need to park up in the lay-by and get out if you want to have a proper look at it. If you turn round, head south past the airfield entrance and continue until the B4009 junction, you'll see XF537 Hunter preserved as the Station HQ gate guard. If you head straight over the mini roundabout here and to the left, this takes you to the main gates for the parade ground, where XZ630 Tornado is displayed next to The RAF Halton Trenchard Museum. The museum is open every Tuesday 1000-1600 and by prior arrangement, on request. Visitors are very welcome, but you must ring in advance. There are some exhibits inside the museum so it's worth visiting. The Tornado is visible from outside the parade grounds, but only from Wendover Woods and it would be better to visit when most of the leaves have fallen. Turn left onto the B4009 by the Hunter and after about half a mile there is a road off to the right signposted to the wood. Go up this road and again a short way up turn right into Wendover Wood itself. This is a private road, one way, but open to the public for accessing the wood. There is a machine for paying parking fees. Continue along this road a short way until it turns sharp left. If you stop right there on the corner and look over the edge you can see the nose of the Tornado. Or you can park your car at the barrier, follow the footpath around the
base and you will eventually see the parade ground and the Tornado - it's a very nice walk, part of the national heritage trail. If you visit the Cafe in the Woods, with the cafe to your back walk in an 11 o'clock direction and you'll reach the Halton boundary for you to work your way round.
Halton Aero Club, Thunder and Lightnings' Halton Photography Guide
Last reported November 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HALWELL AIRFIELD, DEVON
Spotting Info
Head east out of Halwell on A3122 and airfield will be on right after a mile. Leave the A38 at Buckfastleigh and head to Totnes. Follow the signs to Dartmouth and this will take you through the village of Halwell. Carry on though the village until you get to a BP garage. Turn left here and the field is about half a mile up the hill on the right hand side (look for a black barn).
South Hams Flying Club
Last reported July 2004. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HAMPSTEAD NORREYS-HAW FARM AIRFIELD, BERKS
Spotting Info
Head east out of Hampstead Norreys on B4009 towards Aldworth. Go past the entrance to the Living Rainforest attraction and round a sharp left hand bend. After 300 yards you will see Haw Farm on the left. Turn up the track towards the farm. The track forks with the farm on the right. Take the left fork towards a large barn. Go past the barn towards what looks like a ploughed field. The hangar is on the right by the field. A green mesh screen on the front so all the residents can be logged from outside.
Last reported November 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HANNINGFIELD METALS SCRAPYARD, STOCK, ESSEX
Spotting Info
Take the B1007 north out of Stock. After about 3 miles you will pass Ship Road on the right, the scrapyard is on the right shortly afterwards.
Last reported May 2005. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HANNINGTON-WALKERIDGE FARM AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
At the northern end of Hannington village, turn left onto Meadham Lane. Just past the large field on the left is a quick right-left bend, turn left here. Take the rough track down to farm - the first building on the right (before the strip itself) is the workshop, ask farmer for access. The main hangar is a bit further along track.
Last reported July 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HARDWICK-HAMMONDS STRIP AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
Head east out of Shelton Green, strip is on left after 2-3 miles.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HATCH-ROTARY FARM AIRFIELD, BEDS
Spotting Info
Access strictly by prior permission. Home of Skysport Engineering. Heading north on A1, just before you leave Beeston turn left (should be signed to Brook End). At T-junction in Brook End turn right. Take next left, signed Hatch and Thorncote Green. Go through Hatch and as you go through Thorncote Green, you pass Budna Road on the right. Strip is just on the left.
Skysport Engineering Aircraft Exhibits
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HAVERFORDWEST AIRFIELD (EGFE), PEMBROKESHIRE, WALES - TWR 122.2
Spotting Info
Just north of Haverfordwest town alongside the A40. On arrival make sure you don't park in any reserved spaces, they are clearly marked. There is a DSA test centre here with reserved spaces that are frequently being used by members of the public. Friendly, ask in clubhouse or tower for access to the hangars - walk towards the green control tower, you can't miss it! As you walk towards it on your right will be a shutter, and next to that is a little door. Head through that door and it's the the first door on your left. There is nearly always someone in there on the radio, but if you go during the week they will be in the control tower. Ask a member of staff, they should be happy to let you go airside. You'll need a hi-Viz jacket to walk around, (if you don't have your own you can borrow one for your time airside) and make sure you report back to the office when you are leaving. Most of the time all the hangars are open and, in the maintenance hangars, if there are aircraft with registrations missing, the staff in the hangars will provide you with the reg. If the maintenance hangar is shut, there's a small door on the side which is unlocked if someone is inside. Open it and ask for access, they are usually happy for you to walk round as long as you don't touch anything. The area that has the Spitfire on rebuild has a collection tin there for the restoration project. Donations are much appreciated, especially as you've been allowed round the airfield. There is also a very nice cafe on site called the Propellers Cafe, serving meals all day ranging from sandwiches to full English breakfasts, drinks etc.
EGFE Movements
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HAWARDEN AIRPORT (EGNR), FLINTSHIRE, WALES - TWR 124.95, APP 123.35
Spotting Info
Just west of Chester off the A5104.
1 - In Broughton on the south perimeter head west on the B5125 towards Hawarden village. The airfield is on your right, the crash gate almost immediately on your right at the runway end gives views of the tower ramp, the Beluga ramp plus distant (but readable) views of one end of Raytheon plus Hawarden Air Services. Park on the grass so as not to block the crash gate or if other cars are there, park down Wood Lane on the left and walk back.
2 - Carry on the B5125 towards Hawarden village and turn right at the next roundabout onto Manor Lane, signed B5129 Sandycroft and Hawarden Industrial Estate. At the next roundabout turn right onto Manor Road, go straight on past the Arriva bus depot on the left and turn right at the next roundabout. This goes up to a dead end by a substation building, from here you can see most of the ramp between the Raytheon hangars. You can also turn left at this estate roundabout for other views. This estate gives the best views over the airport but building work continues so be careful where you park.
3 - Go back to the Manor Lane/Manor Road roundabout and turn right. On the right outside ATC Unit 2247 is XE852 Vampire on display. Carry on and go straight over the next roundabout and the A380 wing facility will be on your right. Park by a gate to a field on the left then walk down the road past the A380 building. From here any remaining items on the Raytheon ramp can be read. You can cross the field - climb over the fence or hedge just after the Airbus A380 wing facility and walk up to the airfield perimeter fence here but normally everything can be seen from the verge. Be aware that crossing the field sometimes draws the attention of the security.
4 - Back to the car and carry on down the road past the A380 building, cross the railway bridge and park in one of the pull ins on the left. A walk along the road may reveal anything in the first Raytheon hangar if the doors are open, plus anything which was parked nose on from the other areas. Also the Russian fighters and any other bits in the Aviateknik compound may be seen behind Hawarden Air Services from the bridge, though probably just Su17s "35 red" and "54 red" are left now. The An2s are in the hangar and can be seen if the doors are open though you might be able to see two fuselages from the road. Contact Hawarden Air Services prior to your visit as you may be able to arrange a tour.
5 - Continue along this road away from the bridge and pull over when the road turns sharply left. This gives a view straight down the runway and of Raytheon again.
Hawarden Spotters, Hawarden-Chester Airport
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HAWKINGE-KENT BATTLE OF BRITAIN MUSEUM, KENT
Spotting Info
Leave the A20 and head north towards Hawkinge on the A260. Ignoring the roundabouts you traverse as you exit the A20, turn left at the second roundabout and head straight over (2nd exit) the next roundabout. The museum is up on the left after several residential roads but it's well signposted from the A260. Entrance is £5, open April-October 1000-1600 but during the summer months it's open until 1700. Due to thefts and attempted thefts in the past, no cameras, video recorders or any other types of recording equipment, including notebooks, are allowed in the museum. Bear this in mind when you're visiting, whether to try and sneak a pad in in your pocket and try writing like that or trust your memory. Lots of replicas in the various buildings as well as a few authentic aircraft and many relics from many crashed aircraft. The 3 Hurricane replicas outside are BAPC-272, BAPC-273 and BAPC-278.
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HAYWOOD-BROADMEADOW FARM AIRFIELD, HEREFORDS
Spotting Info
Take the A465 southwest out of Hereford town and after passing the B4349 to Clehonger on the right, take the next left down a minor road to Callow. As the road bends round to the left, you pass the farm and the entrance is on the right straight after the large main hangar. As you drive in there are also a couple of hangars on the left. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HEADCORN AIRFIELD (EGKH), KENT - TWR 122.0
Spotting Info
Head south down A274, once through the village, turn left at first turning (crossroads). Take the first left for parking. Practically all aircraft, hangared or not, can be seen. Ask at Tiger Club for access to hangar, if ok you'll be escorted round. If you visit on a Sunday or Bank Holiday, the Air Warfare Museum will give an escorted tour of the hangar residents for a donation of £2 (or more). There are a few aircraft stored at the rear of the hangar in various states of repair, plus a few vintage gems and exhibits that the museum have no room for yet. They want to expand and hence the donation, with the approval of the airfields owner.
Tiger Club
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HEADON-HEADON FARM AIRFIELD, NOTTS
Spotting Info
Head north out of Upton on Yew Tree Road and in to Headon. Pass Church Street on your left and take the next right. Strip is on right. Very friendly, ask for access. Hangars usually accessible for a small charitable donation.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HEATHFIELD-BRADLEYS LAWN AIRFIELD, SUSSEX
Spotting Info
Head west out of Heathfield on A265. As you pass the A267 junction take the next right, airstrip and hangars are about a mile up just beyond farm buildings.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HEATHROW AIRPORT, GT LONDON - TWR 118.5 & 118.7, APP 119.725 & 134.975
Spotting Info & Public Transport
Off at J14 M25 or J4 M4 and follow signs. Bus services around the airport are free, useful as there aren't a lot of inexpensive places to take your car. Buses between Hatton Cross & T5 - 423 via northern perimeter road, bath road and Longford village, 441 between Central area and T5 via northern perimeter road, 482 (double decker) and 490 via T4 and cargo along Southern perimeter road. Visit HeathrowAirport.com for more information on using public transport around Heathrow.
Heathrow Academy (formerly the Visitor Centre) - north side viewing
Northside, if you are on foot and not airside, the only place is the Heathrow Academy. Great views of 27R and arrivals on 09LBus 105/111/140/285 all pass the Heathrow Academy, which is opposite McDonalds in the Bath Road towards Hounslow. Head through the tunnel and when you come out on the other side you will go onto the Bath Road. After you pass the Three Magpies on the right and a petrol station on the left, at the traffic lights there is a bus stop. Stay on the bus until the next stop and the Academy is on the other side of the road in front of 09L/27R. The New Road stop outside the Marriot hotel has a reasonable crossing point to gain foot access towards the Northern Perimeter road and you will see a well trodden path through the shrubs. There is no charge for these buses or any other around Heathrow - the limit being Harlington Corner or Hatton Cross. Both front (large staff) and back (small) car parks are available to spotters at weekends and bank holidays as the BAA staff don't use the front one. The large one gets opened around 0830-0900. The small car park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week as the barrier is automatic, drive up to it and it opens. With a good pair of bins you can read everything taxiing to 27L though heat haze may be a problem in the summer. There is a small viewing stand that will get you a little higher than ground level, no seats. Just 3 higher levels to stand on but it's enough to see over the fence and makes reading things off in the distance a touch easier. The stand has a high roof but no sides so unless the rain is coming straight down, you will get wet. The car park for the Heathrow Academy shuts promptly at 5pm, however if you are already parked by then, there are no problems getting out as the barrier is automatic - £1 per hour during the week or £5 for a day at weekends. If you walk down the alleyway behind, this will take you back to the bus stops, or to the toilets in McDonalds but if you're not intending on making a purchase be discrete as we don't want to be banned. Alternatively, you can park at Hatton Cross station for £4 all day and take a free bus round to the Heathrow Academy. During the week Hatton Cross station car park fills up very quickly but it's not too bad at weekends. There are usually more free spaces to the left as you drive in. The 'Explore Heathrow' centre is open at weekends from 1000-1600 as well as during the week, where you can buy hot drinks and food and you can spot from indoors if the weather is poor.
Southside viewing
Southside is Cains Lane (just off Hatton Road, 2nd road on the right past Hatton Cross station). From here you are close to arrivals on 27L and can also read off those taxiing to 27R, but again in summer, heat haze may be a problem to get those on 27R. No charge to park here. Myrtle Avenue two roads to the north gives similar views, but you have to go round the back of the BP garage to get there. Has a nice
park for a picnic in the summer but parking is extremely limited. Provisions and toilets are available at the BP garage opposite Hatton cross tube station. At the entrance to Hatton Cross Station car park is a lay-by to pull in quickly, that looks across to the 600 stands, but not the cul-de-sac obviously. The views are limited, you may only be able to read the closest one off, but you can see the tails and can note the types and colours to tie up later. Don't forget to drive around the whole perimeter as a lot gets tucked away round cargo, Terminal 5 and the fuel farm that you could miss. On the southwestern part of the airport, opposite the 09R threshold, the Esso petrol station has a lay-by for several cars and space to park. They seem to tolerate people stopping to watch the aircraft, not just spotters, so it gets busy quickly, just make sure you make the odd purchase.
Terminal 5
Terminal 5 consists of three main passenger buildings - the main terminal T5A and the satellites T5B and T5C. Gates are prefixed with A, B or C depending on which building they are in. The ground level of T5A is the arrivals area, departures is on the third level. Once through security passengers can move between all three levels. Landside in the north part there is a Costa Coffee lounge on the departures level with views of the threshold of 9L, most landing traffic can be read without bins. In the south part there is a view of 9R threshold. You can't see both runways from either spot so it's your choice whether to monitor arrivals or departures. There are similar views from the ends of the short stay car parks, though it's only good if you're on foot as it's expensive to park in. The north end on the 5th floor by the drop off area is also good for 09L but the terminal blocks views of 09R. The south end also has views of the biz and cargo on and around stand 606. At the departures in your car, head towards the main exit but a quick stop at the end to read everything off should be ok. Level 3 is the best vantage point. Once airside the best gate in T5A for viewing the northern runway is A7, which is in the northeast corner of the building. If landing on 27R then a good set of bins should allow planes to be read as they taxi off the runway - if they are using 09L then everything will pass by the window. There is an eatery in the southeast corner, but from the next gate A18 there is a good view of the cargo stands (but not the cargo cul-de-sac - you need the southern end of T5B and T5C for this) and a great view of the 09R threshold, but you cannot see much, if anything of action on 27R. You can sit in the middle of the terminal to monitor both runways but an SBS is required or tie up your sightings later as not all will be read off. There is a transit system between T5A and T5B but it appears one-way, that is departing passengers can go from T5A to T5B and arriving passengers from T5B to T5A only. If you are passing through T5 and are using gate A10, wait until the last possible moment - this is a bussing gate and is on ground level with hardly any views outside.
Airside
Airside the piers have huge glass windows making viewing very easy. Terminal 1 looks north onto 09L/27R - gate 8 is at the eastern end so only good for 27R movements as arrivals on 09L will turn off before they get to you.
P4-MMG B727
Head west away from the airport on the A4 and over the M25. On the right is the Grunsdon waste disposal facility where the nose of P4-MMG B727 is stored and easily seen from the road in the bright yellow DHL colours. The rest of the fuselage is stored in a hangar at Bournemouth airport.
Planespotting Hotels
The Jury's Inn room 647 (south facing) gives views of finals on 27L and all the way down the runway. It also has views of landing traffic on 27R briefly enough to read off most, and views of T1 area and maintenance. There are stairwells at each side, which also give good views of all arrivals but if 09s are in use reading arrivals becomes difficult, though outbounds are fine. Floors 5 and higher should give you the same views, plus T4 and cargo ramps if you get a room that faces west. Room 744 (the 7th floor being the highest) is north facing and looks out over 27R approach and distant views of aircraft taxiing and waiting for 27R departures. 27R arrivals are easily read off. No views of 27L though, but just turn left out of the front lobby and they are close to landing as they pass the hotel. Room 737 also has views of 27R. You can also see the far end of 27L as they clear the runway to the right for Terminals 1-3 and T5. The other batch of rooms (room 747 for example) are at a right angle to those mentioned above and look straight out onto 27L. You can see everything on that runway and also anything positioning for departure on 27R making these rooms slightly better than those facing north.
The Renaissance is expensive during the week, with all rooms with an airport view being Executive rooms. At weekends, they do a reduced 'Spotters Package' that is great value for money. It usually includes the use of the Club Lounge with views of the airport, free parking, unlimited tea, coffee and soft drinks, internet access and use of the health club. On checking in, they require a photo ID, or if you have none, then 2 other forms of ID. This is due to their proximity to the airport on orders of the Met. If you don't have any ID, it's up to the discretion of the Duty Manager whether you stay or not so make sure you take ID with you. Movements on 27R/09L are easily read off and you'll have distant views of 27L/09R. The eastern half of the hotel is set back from the western part, and therefore, when 09s are in use, this eastern half is no good at all and not great when using 27s. You'll need to be in a room as far west as possible for 09s, and keep an eye out for arrivals on 09L in front of you turning off the runway short and taxiing back to Terminal 3 and Terminal 5. However, if 27s are in use, a room a little further to the east, not including the eastern set back rooms, will give you the distant views of 27L required to log those departing and taxiing out to depart. The rooms in this front west section that provide good views are 4182-4190 inclusive, 4192-4216 (evens only) and 4217 and 4218. The top two floors (presumably 4th and 5th) are the Executive rooms used in the Spotters Package but the 3rd floor definitely, and possibly the 2nd will also give good views. Photos are also possible through the windows. In the eastern set back section, rooms 4020-4044 (evens only) have airport views though the view is poor as you have to wait for aircraft to pass directly in front of you, and as such, can't be recommended. The Rewards lounge offers a great view too and you can pay to go in there for the day if you wish. Meals here are very expensive, the Three Magpies is a great alternative and a short walk west of here. Details are below in the 'Suitable Evening Meals' section.
The Holiday Inn London Heathrow Ariel at the threshold of 27R, twin rooms around 268 - 288 (even numbers only) give excellent views and the windows open wide for photos though the cold/noise/lamp posts may impede landing shots. All their single rooms face inwards and therefore have no airport views. Weekends are much cheaper than during the week. If they are on 09s though it's not as good as you will only see departures off 09R but it's only a short walk to the Heathrow Academy grandstand. The higher floors are Executive rooms, so a little more expensive but with only slightly better views due to the height advantage. If they're available, you can upgrade to an Executive room for £15 or £20 including internet in the room - very useful if you don't have SBS and want to use an online flight tracker. Just ask for an airport view, the staff are very familiar with our hobby and will accommodate if possible. If you wish to stock up, turn right outside the hotel's main entrance and head towards Harlington. The shops and takeaways will appear after around 5 minutes.
The Premier Inn is alongside and thus has views of short finals for 27R and opposite the BA maintenance hangars on the Bath Road. Room 2083 has views of arrivlas on both 27s with floor 3 being slightly better. 2085 is very similar, with departures on 09 seen with the aid of SBS. Similar views can be had from their car park round the back. There is also a mound at the bottom of the car park with seats and tables. I believe the bar area is not bad for viewing and they have a good weekend rate. After booking, give them a ring and they will sort out a room with landing views.
The Travelodge near Terminal 5, although located over the other side of the M25, has good views down 09R/27L, the 600s cargo stands (but not the cul-de-sac), and distant views of Terminal 4 stands from rooms 443 & 449 on the 4th floor, and 528, 531, 532, 534, 535, 538, 539, 542, 543, 546, 547 and 549 on the 5th. 528 being closest to 09R. Obviously the 5th floor has slightly better views due to the increased height, but as usual, an SBS means you won't miss anything at all. Most departures off 27 can be read as they fly over the hotel with German and American airlines tied up later from the website below. When landing on 09s you can read them off as they cross the M25 and departures can be seen. Obviously with 27 ops it's no good but you're close enough to easily get to the various spotting areas. If you book during their special offer periods, you can get an exceptionally low nightly rate and if you ring them with your reservation, they are happy to accommodate you with your room requests, just ask for an airport facing or motorway facing room. They have a map of the rooms and layout at reception for you to look at, though they encourage you to use the touch screen to check in so you may have to insist on either a room change or ring before you arrive. Clean, tidy and basic - standard Travelodge fare. There is a shuttle bus but it costs £4 each way to/from Terminal 5. The food and drink are expensive though. If you have a car, it's £5 per night to use their car park. If you book far enough in advance, the nightly rates are as low as £19.
The Travelodge Heathrow Central is east of the airport but still off the A4 Bath Road. It's almost directly under the 27R approach and aircraft are just a few hundred feet above, making them easy to read off. You can see everything on approach for both 27s from an east facing room - 607 and 609 for example. The south facing rooms might give a better, although still distant, view towards 27L. Room 353 looks straight down 27R, so all arrivals on 27R can be read and you can see the departed aircraft from 27L once they were airborne and above the buildings, with 4th, 5th and 6th floors providing more of a height advantage. Rooms 444, 604, 606 and 608 provide the same views down 27R. Rooms 614 - 632 inclusive (evens only and on any of the upper floors) will give side on views of arrivals of both 27R and 27L. Buses 81 and 222 stop right outside the door to take you straight to the Heathrow Academy. Walking will take around 30 minutes including stops to log movements. Being slightly further away from the airport, it tends to be a fair bit cheaper. Free street parking is nearby, (hotel charges £5 per night), and a good Indian restaurant just 5 minutes walk away.
At the IBIS, from south facing rooms on the 4th and 5th floors, you can read off all arrivals and departures on 27s but you really should insist on the top floor if it's available as the views on the other floors are blocked by trees. If they are on 09s then, depending on the weather, you can log most of the arrivals taxiing in (those that turn off short and head back to T3 and T5 may be too distant) and all departures taking off on 09R - any you don't read off can be tied up later via the site below. Free public transport to near the hotel available from all terminals. The main corridor of the hotel compromised decent views and therefore photos of aircraft lining up on 27R from room 503, so if photos are important to you, 505 and 507 would probably be better. A 24 hour buffet bar provides food that can be taken back to your room. The windows are quite small, too small for 2 or 3 to stand side by side to spot and they're too grubby to take photos through. Fortunately they open inwards to a certain extent meaning you can lean out a touch to improve your view somewhat. Parking is £7 per night. They have a shuttle bus to the terminals, but it's expensive.
The Thistle Hotel has a balcony that is open to anyone, you just need to pay for the car park if you have your own transport. A nice location if they are using 09s. The rates are good, but the windows in the rooms are small. They'll often let you check in much earlier than the stated time if they're not too busy. Room 153 faces Terminal 5 and all the lines of BA can be easily read off. Odd numbered rooms up to 179 would probably have similar views. There is a large breakfast/restaurant/bar area which has doors out onto the large outdoor viewing balcony and the views are brilliant of arrivals on 09L. If 27R is used for arrivals most turn off before they get to the balcony. The balcony seems to be open from about 06:00-23:00 and is open to non residents. You can catch the free 423 bus from Hatton Cross which goes past the viewing area and then to hotel. If the weather is nice and 09s are in use the balcony is an excellent place to spot and photograph from - arrivals on 09L right in front and distant views of departures on 09R tied up through the below site or SBS.
The Ramada tends to have good nightly rates but be warned, the food there has been repeatedly reported as terrible.
Suitable Evening Meals
If the hotel food and drink are too expensive, the food hasn't received great reviews, or you fancy a change of scene, here are some alternatives. The Three Magpies pub is a favourite amongst spotters and is just west of the Renaissance on the A4 Bath Road. If arrivals are on 27L you may prefer The Green Man pub the other side of Hatton Cross. Take any free bus listed above to Hatton Cross station, at the traffic lights with the interchange with the A30 go straight across onto Fagg's Road and follow this round to the left for about a 1/4 mile. Fagg's Road then goes round to the right and Green Man Lane forks off to the left. The Green Man pub is on the left. If it's a nice evening you can sit outside and the aircraft are as good as straight over the top.
Heathrow & Gatwick Airport Movements, Heathrow Aviation Enthusiasts Email Group
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Last reported November 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HENDON-RAF MUSEUM, GT LONDON
Spotting Info
Well signed from the M1 and surrounding area.
RAF Museum Hendon
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HENLOW AIRFIELD (EGWE), BEDS - A/G 121.1
Spotting Info
Located on A6001 just north of village. The flying club is on an RAF airfield, therefore you need a valid access permit to visit. You can get them at the main gate, but all visitors are requested to telephone the club prior to arrival so the issuing officer at the main gate can be notified of your anticipated arrival. During office hours passes are issued by the Passes Office. At all other times passes will be issued by the Guardroom. I do not know if spotters are welcome. Continue east on the A6001 past the main entrance and on your left is gate guard WT612 Hunter.
Henlow Flying Club
Last reported January 2011. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HENSTRIDGE AIRFIELD, SOMERSET - TWR 130.25
Spotting Info
Located in village just off A30. Heading west along A30 and before you get to Henstridge there will be a turning on the right to Lower Nyland followed by a bridge over Bow Brook. Take the next left and airfield is on the left. Aircraft are parked in two different areas. Main area is on left with hangars. Ask in clubhouse for access. Alongside the SRWN hangar are two RC114 wrecks G-BERW and G-DDIG. Behind the same hangar are the wrecks of G-BDYD RC114, G-BECC MS892 and G-BHVB PA28. Over to left is a building with gyros in but is normally locked up plus several individual hangars beyond that. On right, if you drive down the old runway it will take you to the other side.
Henstridge Airfield
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HEWISH AIRFIELD, SOMERSET
Spotting Info
Head west out of Congresbury on A370 and after you pass through Hewish, turn right towards East Hewish. The strip and hangars are just beyond this village.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HIBALDSTOW AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
Head south out of town on B1206 and take first left. Airfield is on right and entrance is just after it. Friendly airstrip but MUST ask first for access. G-ANHR Auster, frame only, rests in the rafters of the hangar.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HIGH EASTER AIRFIELD, ESSEX
Spotting Info
Head west out of the village. At a sharp left bend that heads to Leaden Roding, turn right here and the strip is immediately on the left. If the gate is shut, push the bit that looks like it lifts up, then lift it and the gate opens towards you. The aircraft are all in separate little hangars but have handy little gaps to read them off.
Last reported November 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HINTON-IN-THE-HEDGES AIRFIELD, NORTHANTS - TWR 119.45
Spotting Info
West of village and south of A422. Park in main car park and walk past large building and cafe, down to maintenance hangar. Very friendly, a request here usually grants access to wander round, ask in each hangar for access - results vary.
Hinton-in-the-Hedges Airfield
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HOGHTON-HIGHER BARN FARM AIRFIELD, LANCS
Spotting Info
Exit M6 at J31, head east on A59 towards Blackburn and get in right hand lane for the first right turn in under half a mile. Follow the road signed Roach Bridge under the opposite lane of the duel carriageway, through the crossroads onto Roach Road and through Roach Bridge. On other side of the village the road goes uphill, when near the top the farm is down a track on the right. Ask in the farmhouse for permission, though reports have stated access is no longer possible here due to thefts.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HOLYWOOD-ULSTER FOLK & TRANSPORT MUSEUM, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
Head east out of Belfast on the A2, through Holywood village and it's on the left and signposted.
Ulster Folk & Transport Museum though says very little about the aircraft exhibits.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HOOK-SCOTLAND FARM AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
Strip is just east of J5 M3. All aircraft can be logged from the motorway. To visit, take the A30 west towards Hook, turn left to Holt (if you get to B3349 roundabout you've gone too far), go under the railway line and it's on the left.
Last reported May 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HOOTON PARK-THE AEROPLANE COLLECTION, CHESHIRE
Spotting Info
Exit the M53 at J6, turn right at the roundabout onto South Road and it's on the left and signposted. The Hooton Park Trust has agreed to let Dave Arkle run pre-booked guided tours of this very private site once a month on a Sunday morning, usually the first Sunday of each month but you'll need to check this, and check there's room on the tour. The tour lasts about an hour, it's very popular and well worth it. No cost but donations are encouraged. As most of the stored airframes are privately owned we are reliant on the generosity of the owners allowing us access. Please respect this and offer Dave every courtesy for running these tours. If you wish to book a tour please either email Dave or if you prefer, phone on 0161 969 2697.
Hooton Park Trust
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HOUGHAM-GLEBE FARM AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
Head north out of Hougham and take the second track on the right. Follow it all the way to the end, past the farm. Very cautious of visitors, ID will be required and they often check you out. Access may be denied.
Last reported March 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HUCKNALL AIRFIELD (EGNA), NOTTS
Spotting Info
Head northeast on the B6009 into Hucknall and the entrance is a very small gap in the hedge on the right just before the Rolls Royce entrance. Ask for access, owner is friendly. When no one is there the gate is closed.
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HUGHLEY-MILL FARM AIRFIELD, SHROPS
Spotting Info
Airfield is situated beyond the caravan park in the village, believe you have to drive through the park to get to it.
Last reported May 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HULCOTE-BROOK FARM HELIPAD
Spotting Info
A fairly busy helicopter maintenance facility, there's usually something parked outside. Head southeast out of Salford on Salford road towards the M1 junction. Keep your eyes on the left for the strip at Hulcote Farm. Only one or two residents - they may be parked outside the hangar but it's rare. Shortly on the right is the helipad. There are a couple of locked gates providing vantage points but it's difficult as the helicopters park behind the buildings.
Last reported March 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HULLAVINGTON AIRFIELD, WILTS
Spotting Info
Come off the M4 at J17 and head north on the A429. Past the army barracks entrance, past the end of runway 23 and take the next left, signposted Hullavington. As the road bends right, turn left, signposted Wellington Place, and 621 Volunteer Gliding Squadron's hangar is the first hangar you get to. If you just turn up, it's hit and miss whether you're allowed round their hangar, though you should be allowed to look from outside it if it's open. Ask for access. If you contact them in advance to arrange a tour, they're usually happy to accommodate your visit if someone is available. On the drive up to the hangar you get views across the airfield of any movements and aircraft and gliders parked outside,
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HUMBERSIDE AIRPORT, LINCS - TWR 118.55, APP 124.675
Spotting Info
Come off the M180 at J5, and take the A18 to the airport, it's signposted. The A18 crosses runway 21 approach and there are a couple of lay-bys to stop in. After passing runway 21, turn left at the crossroads and take the first left again onto Forty Foot Lane for the 21 approach lights. A good place to stay and for photos if 21 is in use. Return to the crossroads and cross over the A18. Immediately on the right is a lay-by for a few cars and this is where most people stop to watch the movements. You can look back over the airfield and ramps, although a good pair of bins are needed for the GA. This takes you down the eastern airport boundary from where there are many places to log the light aircraft. Alongside runway 27 is the fire dump where you'll find the forward fuselage of BAC1-11 G-AVMP. The official viewing area is accessed via the terminal building, though it's outside and the car parks are not too expensive. At the terminal side, turn in off the A18 and instead of turning left at the roundabout for the terminal, head straight over for the various hangars and GA. Keep looking left for gaps. The hangar of Global Aviation has a handy letterbox that may get you one or two including G-BVTC Jet Provost marked XW333. Right at the end of these buildings, by the cargo ramp, are the fuselages of J41s G-4-105, G-CDYI and G-GCJL. If you can't see them from this straight road, as you head back, you may be able to turn left by a car park on the left, and this roads curves right round to the left to the fuselages. Failing that, head back to the A18 and turn left and take the next left down a single track. This is way before the railway line. This track runs down the west perimeter so keep looking left for the fuselages.
For airport parking visit
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Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HUNSDON AIRFIELD, HERTS
Spotting Info
From the A414 North West of Harlow take the B180 to Hunsdon, just before the village the former WW11 airfield is on the right. The microlights operate from the Northern end of the former airfield. There are several entrances onto the airfield near the town. Friendly reception, some have been granted access to freely wander, others to wander around the spectators' area, though everything can easily be seen from there.
Last reported June 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HURSTBOURNE TARRANT-BOURNE PARK AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
Please note, the owners of the airfield have expressed that we stop visiting at weekends. They are unhappy at the high numbers of spotters visiting and at the moment they are unable to accomodate us. Aerofab remain friendly though and are still happy to grant permission as long as you ask first - I suggest a weekday visit would therefore be better as it's likely you'll be turned away at the weekends. It's also advisable to show an interest in the aircraft and have conversations with the engineers and pilots. This may help with being allowed regular visits again.
Either head north out of Andover or south out of Hurstbourne on A343. If heading north, go through Enham Alamein, through the crossroads, and Bourne Park is on the right, on a right hand bend. It is not signposted and there are no warnings so go slow. If you go past a left turn signed 'The Fox Inn' you have gone too far - turn round in Hurstbourne. If you are heading south it is on a left hand bend soon after the right turn for 'The Fox Inn'. Follow the road up and go very slowly over the bumps. There's a small white 'Aerofab' sign nailed to the fence so turn left here and you'll see the hangars. The hangar on the left is for maintenance and usually only open during the week. Aircraft also park behind the hangars in various fields so have a good look around. Very friendly, ask for access. Park sensibly out of the way and walk, do not drive your car around the aircraft and out onto the grass. The owners are unhappy people have seen fit to do this and will stop access if care isn't taken.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HUSBANDS BOSWORTH AIRFIELD, LEICS
Spotting Info
Head south out of village on A5199 towards Welford and turn left after about a mile. Airfield is on the left and signposted. Ask in the clubhouse and you may get a list of instructions and a map (but do not
go in the hangars), or you may get lucky and get escorted round. The Hungarian Wilga stored and used for parts is in the first hangar you pass on the right as you drive in. If you reach the entrance with a locked gate, the main entrance is about half a mile west of here.
The Gliding Centre
Last reported March 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
HUSTHWAITE-BAXBY MANOR AIRFIELD, YORKS
Spotting Info
Head west through Husthwaite village and round a left bend. After the bend turn right at the triangle junction onto Baxby Terrace. Follow the road around to the left, a sharp bend, and take the next right, another triangle junction. Entrance is up here on the left. Park up and take care as the footpath to the clubhouse is right next to the runway threshold. A very friendly microlight field - permission granted from the clubhouse. A few hangars this side of the airfield, with several more beyond the treeline at the back of these hangars.
Baxby Airsports Club
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ILKESTON-DALE ABBEY AIRFIELD, DERBS
Spotting Info
Head north on A6096 from Derby, past the turning for Dale Abbey and turn left into Cat & Fiddle Lane. Within 100 yards on the right is a driveway with electric gates that is the entrance to the windmill that is a good reference point and the strip itself. Suspect access is only possible if you have called ahead to gain permission. The windmill is open to the public on occasions so it might be possible to get in then.
Last reported December 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ILMER-SHROVE FURLONG FARM AIRFIELD, BUCKS
Spotting Info
Looks like two possible entrances to this airfield. Head west through Ilmer village and where the road bends sharply left, head straight on and you're parallel with the runway. Around to the right is the hangar. There also appears to be an entrance from the north off the A4129. Head east out of Kingsey and after one or two fields on the right, turn right down a track. If you go over the railway line you've gone too far. This track leads straight into the farm, follow the route through the buildings for the hangar. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported May 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
INCE BLUNDELL AIRFIELD, MERSEY - TWR 121.075
Spotting Info
Take A565 north out of Ince Blundell. After a mile turn right - signposted. Careful though, very busy dual carriageway. Friendly, ask for access. Worth ringing beforehand though as airfield may be shut and entrance gate locked.
West Lancashire Microlight School
Last reported April 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
INSCH AIRFIELD, ABERDEENSHIRE - TWR 129.825
Spotting Info
Insch village is on B9002, south of the A96 between Inverurie and Huntly. Head south on B992 to Auchleven, turn right here heading to Leslie (possibly signposted to Kennethmont). Airstrip is on left before Leslie Castle. Friendly, ask in clubhouse for access but take care as you have to cross the runway threshold to get there.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
INVERNESS AIRPORT, HIGHLAND - TWR 122.6
Spotting Info
On A96, northeast of town. Write to, or email, the Airport Manager, HIAL in advance for access, this is well worth doing. If you are unable, then exit the terminal and turn left. Follow the road to the end of the terminal and turn left at the roundabout onto a dead end track. At the end of here is a gate, it's a public right of way and the runway threshold is only a short distance away. Go through the gate and the South apron is to your left. If you go down the road as far as you can there is a cycle/footpath that goes to the right and all around the approach lights. Follow it around and you will arrive adjacent to the 05 threshold, which is the best place of all for photography. It takes no more than 15 minutes walk. Also good views from inside the terminal, and a walk round to the GA area (straight over the mini roundabout after leaving the terminal, but turn right before you get to the main terminal and follow it to the end) should get you a few more.
The Highland Aviation Museum is situated in the nearby Dalcross Industrial Estate, not far at all from Dalcross Heliport. If you turn right at the main airport roundabout (where left takes you to the footpath around 05 threshold) and take the next right, this is the estate and follow to the end for the museum. More details including exhibit listings can be found at the Aeroflight and Undiscovered Scotland websites.
Inverness Airport Movements, Highland Aero Club
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Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
IPSDEN-CHILTERN PARK AIRFIELD, OXFORDS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Wallingford on A4074. Go over the crossroads, past the left turn to Ipsden and turn right at the next crossroads (signed Goring?). Strip on left. Home of Thames Valley Microlight Centre, friendly, ask in clubhouse for access to hangar.
Last reported August 2005. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
ISLE OF MAN-RONALDSWAY AIRPORT, ISLE OF MAN - TWR 118.9, APP 120.85
Spotting Info
On the A5 between Ballasalla and Castletown villages. Airport car park prices very reasonable (first half hour free). Viewing from cafeteria on ground level and viewing terrace on top of newly refurbished and extended terminal building. As you enter airport at main roundabout there are hangars on your left with some aircraft normally parked outside - access unlikely. Visiting light aircraft park just to the west of the main terminal and are photographable through the fence alongside. Good views of the whole airfield can be had by driving round to Derbyhaven on the south side of the airport. Take the first left at the roundabout past King William college and then left at the bottom and follow the road all the way (there is a car park on the right just by the approach to 03 if it is in use). Carry on round and take left at end of road and follow road to Manx Flyers flying club (do not go into the car park as it is private). Park along the roadside with good views of landing/taking off and taxiing. You can also see into Manx engineering hangars if they are open. There is a further viewing spot to the north of the airfield via the A11 on the Ballasalla side (follow Industrial Estate signs on the bend just by the railway level-crossing by Ballasalla station).
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
IXWORTH-QUEACH FARM AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head northeast out of Great Barton on A143. After 1-2 miles turn left at the crossroads (right goes to Pakenham) and it's a mile on the right.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
JERSEY AIRPORT
Spotting Info
Towards the southeast part of the island on the B36. All the aircraft can be viewed from vantage points around the airfield, except for a few in the hangars. If on foot, leave the terminal and walk straight ahead along the airport road, past the car park and hire car areas and past the end of the terminal. On the right you can see the bizjet area. Most of these can be read off by looking from the car park. At the roundabout, continue walking along the pavement following the perimeter and runway to the flying club, visible down the road on the left. The Aero Club bar/bistro is open to the public and has a balcony so please use it for viewing and photography. The Aero Club and AVB do allow escorted access when staff are available so please ask. Usually local spotters or photographers are at the club or on the balcony who can help with anything you can get. From the balcony, the aircraft in front of the hangars can be seen. You're welcome to stay as long as you like, the food is recommended and there is also an arrivals screen with everything from scheduled airliners to Cessna 150s. Continue past the club and the parked aircraft can be seen on the left. Turn left here down La Rue des Landes just before the garden centre. This takes you on a footpath right under the flightpath at the end of runway 27. Excellent views of aircraft taxiing can seen from this path at the end of the lane. To walk to the flying club would be about 15 mins with another 5 mins to the footpath. When walking, all aircraft movements can be seen. There are no viewing areas in the airport unless you are airside, where there is a viewing lounge upstairs. They also have a big air show in September.
Last reported April 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KEEVIL AIRFIELD, WILTS - A/G 129.975
Spotting Info
Just south of the village and signposted. The Gliding Club are very friendly, ask for access, though gate normally locked when no one is present. If someone is available, you can ask for a guided tour of the restoration and workshop area containing a lot of old gliders. Make sure you ask to climb the steps to see BGA1115 and WZ793. These are lying in bits at the back of the restoration area on the roof of the internal buildings.
Bannerdown Gliding Club
Last reported August 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KEMBLE/COTSWOLD AIRPORT, GLOUCS - TWR 118.9
Spotting Info
Alongside the A429 just to the west of Kemble village though the entrance is off the A433. One or two signposts lead towards the southern entrance which is for the Bristol Aero Collection only. Travelling west on the A433 the road bends right with a track forking left/straight on. Turn down here and follow for the airfield. As you drive up to the entrance keep looking left for views of the scrapping area. You can pull over here to stop very briefly, but don't hang around. Follow the road and you'll pass the airliner overflow/storage on the left and a few small light aircraft hangars (Google Earth image is out of date!) before you get to the Delta Jets hangars (again image out of date!). Follow the road towards the control tower, car park and AV8 restaurant (recommended) and you'll pass the Aero Club hangars on the right - you can try asking for hangar access here but I think it'll be refused. From the fence line here you can see across the runway to the stored Hunters area with the Chevron hangars and 146s to the right. You can also ask in the Tower for access to walk on the grass if you're interested in photos and will give you a chance to look into the Delta Jets hangars if they are open. If granted you will need a hi-viz jacket. As you drive away turn left just after the Delta Jets hangars and follow the road round to the stored Britannia XM496. On the first and third Sunday of each month the aircraft is normally open and staffed between approximately 12.30 and 4.00. There is no charge for entry but donations are welcome - having done this myself I can strongly recommend it as the volunteers have done and continue to do an excellent job. Driving past the Britannia will give you a different view of the stored 146s. For the Bristol Aero Collection access is via the main southern gate. Just let them know at the security office and you'll be given a map for you to follow to the musem. Open Mondays all year round and Sundays during the summer, check their website for opening times and further details.
Kemble Enthusiasts Website, Kemble Photography Spots
Last updated October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KEMEYS COMMANDER-LITTLE TROSTREY FARM AIRFIELD, MONMOUTHSHIRE, WALES
Spotting Info
About 3 miles north of Usk village on the right of the B4598. The Tank School, also located at the strip, is well signposted. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KENLEY AIRFIELD, GT LONDON
Spotting Info
Heading north on the A22 towards Whyteleafe, turn left into Salmon Lane adjacent to Whyteleafe station. Head up the hill along the narrow lane for about a mile to the mini roundabout at the top and turn left onto Whyteleafe Road. Turn right into Salmon Lane West after about 100 yards and after another 200 yards or so there is a right turn with a big sign for the VGS, you can't miss it. Head down here and through the gates onto the airfield. Surrey Hills Gliding Club hangar is on left, 615 Volunteer Gliding Squadron is the large green hangar on right. The gliding club fly during the week and the VGS operate at weekends.
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KIDLINGTON/OXFORD AIRPORT (EGTK/OXF), OXFORDS - TWR 118.875, APP 125.325
Spotting Info
North of Oxford just off A44. Security is very tight so no access to airfield. As you cross the end of the runway along Langford Lane on the southern perimeter, there is a lay-by on the right. Park here, cross the road and walk along the grass verge to the right to the crash gate. Nearly everything can be seen from along the verge though during the summer when the foliage is thick it gets difficult. If you walk back to the end of the road near the dual carriageway you'll be able to see into Hangar 8 housing biz, if it's open. From the lay-by continue towards the main entrance - left at both roundabouts. As you approach the security hut, fork right and keep looking left. This road is usually quiet enough for you to crawl down and read off any that come into view. For McAlpine Helicopters, head out of main entrance, turn left at the roundabout (right takes you back to the lay-by) and left again at the lights. After about a mile turn left just before the garage. As you drive down this road you will see the helicopters on your left across the field.
Oxford-Kidlington Airport Email Group
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KILKEEL AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
There are two strips here. Take the A2 west out of Kilkeel and then the second right (could be signed for Attical). Follow the road for a couple of miles and the strip is on the left where the road takes a bit of an S bend. Very friendly if contact made beforehand. The other strip is the diversionary field if weather is too bad up the hill. From Kilkeel take the road towards Cranfield, just beyond Derryoge and before Dunnaval the strip is on the right.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KINGSMUIR-SORBIE FARM AIRFIELD, FIFE
Spotting Info
Head south out of Kingsmuir on B9131. At crossroads turn right on B940 and take next right for strip. Keep your speed right down as you travel along the track round the farmhouse. You then have to cross the runway threshold, so stop, look both ways, don't just glance, and then proceed with extremem caution. Friendly, ask for access at the control point.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KINGSTON DEVERILL AIRFIELD, WILTS - A/G 129.975
Spotting Info
Head north on B3095 into Kingston Deverill. Turn left at the sharp right hand bend and follow the signs to the gliding club. Friendly, ask for access. If it's all closed up you can log a few through the gaps.
Bath, Wilts and N.Dorset Gliding Club
Last reported April 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KINLOSS AIR BASE, MORAY
Spotting Info
Head northwest out of Kinloss village on B9011 to Findhorn and the base is on right. DO NOT stop anywhere on the double yellow lines, there are regular Police patrols. A bit further down on the right, there is a crash gate, car park and viewing hut. Park on the grass well clear of the gate and walk back to the runway. Next to the crash gate in the south east corner alongside the B9089 is gate guard XW240 Nimrod.
Last reported November 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KINTORE HELIPAD, ABERDEENSHIRE
Spotting Info
From Kintore, go over A96 then take the next turning right on a road that runs along side the A96, then crosses underneath to an industrial area. Or, from Aberdeen, follow the A96 north along the Kintore bypass, follow the sign for industrial estate at the next roundabout, double back towards Aberdeen and take a left at the graded junction. The heliport is along a rough track to the left of a mini roundabout. Very friendly, ask for access, though out of hours the barrier is usually down. Not usually open at weekends. G-CCVY R22 is stored here, pod only.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KIRKBRIDE AIRFIELD, CUMBRIA - TWR 124.4
Spotting Info
Head south out of Kirkbride, take the first right and the airfield is on the left. Take second or third entrance between industrial hangars and ask at the control tower. Very friendly, ask for access.
Kirkbride Airfield
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KIRKBYMOORSIDE AIRFIELD, YORKS
Spotting Info
From the roundabout on the A170 in the town, head south down Ings Lane. Keep going down the single track road and eventually the airfield entrance is on the right. It is where Slingsby make/made T67s.
Last reported May 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KIRKNEWTON AIRFIELD, EDINBURGH CITY, SCOTLAND
Spotting Info
Owned by MOD but some light aircraft here due to flying restrictions at Edinburgh. South of Kirknewton village, the entrance is on the B7031. Home of Scotland Aero Club and Air Cadet gliders - they don't welcome spotters but you can view any aircraft and gliders parked outside from the B7031.
Last reported July 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KIRKNEWTON-LATCH FARM AIRFIELD, EDINBURGH CITY, SCOTLAND
Spotting Info
Head north and west through Kirknewton village on B7031. As you head over the railway line, don't turn right to stay on the B7031, carry straight on and take the very next left onto Leyden Road. Head under the railway and bear right, following the railway line. Then bear left and take the next right. Follow this through an old pig farm and up the hill. Just before the brow take the track off to the left and follow to the end for the strip. There are gaps in hangars to view some regs if they are locked up.
Last reported July 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KIRTON-in-LINDSEY AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Kirton-in-Lindsey on B1398 to Hemswell and Glentworth. Airfield is on left and entrance is just before the B1205 crossroads. Friendly, ask in the clubhouse for access.
Trent Valley Gliding Club
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
KNETTISHALL-GREAT BARTON AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head west out of Garboldisham on A1066. After 1-2 miles turn left and head through Gasthorpe. Go past the right turn to Knettishall and past left turn to Hopton and this road takes you through the old part of the airfield. Strip and hangars are in the middle of the airfield.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LADDINGFORD-FOWLE HALL FARM AIRFIELD, KENT
Spotting Info
Heading south through Laddingford village, turn right down Darman Lane, and it's about a mile on the right, over River Teise. If you get to a left turn (Pikefish Lane) you've gone too far. Gaps in hangars if they are locked. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LAINDON-BENSONS FARM AIRFIELD, ESSEX
Spotting Info
In Laindon town, head north on A176 and go under the A127. At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit straight over. Take the second road on the left and the strip is on the left.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LAKENHEATH AIR BASE, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head north away from Mildenhall air base on the A1065 and it's on the left. 54-2269 F-100 is the gate guard marked "63319". Following the main road inside the base, you'll reach the Wings of Liberty Memorial Park, with BAPC-269 Spitfire replica marked "BM631", with 63-7419 F-4C marked "65-777", 68-0011 F-111 marked "70-398" and 74-0131 F-15A marked "92-048" together just across the road. Follow the A1065 round the eastern perimeter, and turn left shortly after the runway 24 approach lights. Turn left again immediately and shortly on your left is a dedicated car park to view from. Walk out of the viewing area and turn left. You'll see the crash gate in front of you, this gives a slightly different angle onto the airfield. Further on down this track is a disused farm, so you can park here, again it gives you a different angle onto the airfield. Or you can walk the fenceline from the crash gate down to here. If there are any visitors parking on the north side of the base, leave the car park, and turn right onto Wangford Road towards Lakenheath village and away from the A1065. At the end turn left onto the B1112 and head into Lakenheath village. You'll round a sharp left bend, followed by a left and right bend and take the next left onto Wings Road opposite the Post Office. Follow this until you reach the fields and park up in one of the lay-bys. From here you can walk down the road for a view overlooking the whole base. Anything parked by the A1065 on the south and east side is distant from here, but anything parked northside should be readable. The road dips down towards the crash gate so views are no good from down there.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LAMBLEY-JERICHO FARM AIRFIELD, NOTTS
Spotting Info
From Lowdham, head west, following the stream. Just as you enter Lambley, turn right (signposted Woodborough?). Go over the stream, take next right and strip is on right.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LANGAR AIRFIELD, NOTTS
Spotting Info
Head south out of village and airfield is on the left. Usually busier at the weekends. Friendly, ask for access.
British Parachute Schools
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LANGPORT-HIGH HAM AIRFIELD, SOMERSET
Spotting Info
Head west out of High Ham village on Turnhill Road at the angled crossroads, round the sharp left and then right bend, followed by a shallow left bend and the strip is on the right. Due to a large number of spotters visiting, he is now unable to accomodate visitors. Please bear this in mind, it may save you a wasted journey if access is denied.
Last reported April 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LASHAM AIRPORT, HANTS - TWR 118.9, 126.65
Spotting Info - Northside Viewing
Head south on A339 towards Alton and after Bagmore the airport and Gliding Club are signposted. Turn left and follow the signs to the main entrance. Park in car park to left of barriers - the area in front of the clubhouse gives views of the glider hangar to the right and some gliders to the left. There have been mixed responses from the clubhouse, some refuse access to the hangar, others have said to ask a member if it's ok to walk over. If you can find someone, then please ask. For the gliders to the east of the clubhouse beyond the caravan park, walk out of the car park back on to the road and turn right. You'll see the gliders on the right. Or you can drive and pull over in the lay-by. For the airliners, there are two sets of security gates to see the airliners parked at the hangars and you must visit both in order to get a full log. To get to the first turn left out of the main entrance and just before the T junction there is an uphill left turn. Take it and it leads to the gates. Be quick as there is not a lot of room to park and you need to keep the road clear. You may need to get up on the grass verge to get a better view.
Spotting Info - Southside Viewing
To get to the south side, you have 2 choices. Turn right out of the main airport entrance, take the next right at the northeastern edge of the airfield and head towards Lasham village. When you reach the crossroads in the village turn right and go past the Royal Oak pub on your right hand side, follow the road round for about 1/4 mile and you reach the security gates on this side of the airfield. The second choice is to turn left out of the main entrance, and left at the bottom of the road at the junction of the A339. Carry on towards Alton, and take the first turning you come to on the left, should be signposted 'Lasham village', follow the road up the hill to the village, and at the crossroads turn left, the Royal Oak will be just in front of you on the right again. If you can't log everything from this gate, then for a different view, drive back into the village, turn right down the lane opposite the church, then turn right again. This lane brings you along in front of the hangars about one field down the hill. Continue along this road pass a farm to get to the A339.
Lasham Movements
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LEE-ON-THE-SOLENT AIRFIELD, HANTS - TWR 135.70
Spotting Info
Just north of Lee-on-the-Solent town between the B3334 and the B3385. Security is very tight so access only for gliding or flying etc but there are limited views from the main entrance road before you reach security - it's in the southeast corner of the airfield off the B3385. Various views of the airfield can be seen on the B3385 - there is a crash gate about half way up the field where you have to park just off the road and walk up for a clearer view. On the main B3334 Gosport-Stubbington road, go to the end of runway 23. There's a pull in on the right before a house, or, as there are only bus stops you can park down Marks Road on the right just after the pedestrian lights and walk back. Head up on to the grass area just before the lights and before Easthouse Lane to look over the fence. Back on the B3334 west towards Stubbington and take the second left down East House Avenue. Follow the road round to the left and you will see a green on the right. Park there for distant views of the Bristow ramp and gliding hangar. You can walk up to the fence if you wish. Most of the hangars you can see contain aircraft, apart from the 2 large ex-Royal Navy hangars directly opposite this green, on the far side of the runway south side.
Website Lee Flying Association
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LEEDS-BRADFORD AIRPORT, YORKS - TWR 120.3, APP 123.75
Spotting Info
On A658 just north of Yeadon. The airport is fairly quiet so check the airport website for scheduled and charter information before you leave to time it right.
Viewing and Photography Spots
1) Head towards the airport on the A658 Harrowgate Road from Yeadon - this road runs north through the tunnel under runway 14/32. At the crossroads with big Murgatroyd's fish shop in front of you, turn right onto Bayton Lane, past the Premier Inn and go up the hill on the left. Be warned it's extremely rough and a 4x4 is advisable so park up and walk. When you reach some rough ground on your left, pull in and you can see most of the airport from there with the Multiflight hangar in front of you. Although the diagonal marking on the main apron stands 1-5 means they're all tail on. If arriving by bus you can get off at the bus stop outside of Murgatroyd's Fish and Chip shop and opposite the Premier Inn. From this point from the various angles you can see all of the stands and read off most things parked up. The large new Multiflight hangar does obscure the views although photography is possible from certain areas using a 300 lens. To get to this area on foot from the terminal exit the airport complex by taking a left turn from the terminal. On reaching the main road turn left and walk through the tunnel under the runway until you reach the crossroads above. Walking time is about 30 mins. You can also catch the Bradford service bus and get off after passing the Premier Inn. From here, you can walk down to the perimeter fence, follow it along to the right and eventually you will come to the crash gate. This will give you views of the Multiflight apron and whilst they are all tail on to you, you can read them off. In the far right corner you'll see a narrow gap, which leads to a narrow pathway that runs across the top of the golf course, all the way round the perimeter of the southern end of the airport and round the end of runway 32 threshold. From various points along this path you can get excellent landing and rolling take off photos though it can be overgrown and muddy.
2) Instead of turning right at the Murgatroyd's crossroads above, carry straight on towards the runway 14/32 tunnel. Before you reach the tunnel take a left turn onto Glenmore Mount (before the right turn to Multiflight), a small housing estate and park up. Cross the road and walk towards a grass banking at the side of the runway. Here you will find a couple of seats. Good views can be had of the main runway with good photos possible of traffic lifting off early from RW32. A limited number of stands can be seen from this area. If walking from the terminal follow the directions in (1) and you will see the area once you have walked under the tunnel.
3) Instead of turning left onto Glenmore Mount above, drive past it and turn immediately right towards the GA area and Multiflight. You can park on the side here to view the GA area plus arrivals, departures and the main ramp can also be seen. Litter bins have been provided for rubbish so please be respectful. You can also park here and walk back to the grass bank in (2) above.
4) From the Multiflight viewing area in point 1) above, head back towards Murgatroyd's and continue straight through the crossroads, keeping the fish shop on your right. Travel down this road for about half a mile until you reach a roundabout. Turn right just before the roundabout onto Cemetary Road (or if you miss it go round the roundabout and take the first left). Travel for about half a mile and you will see the end of runway 14. You will see a left turn onto a small raised parking area at the cemetary, where you can park up and watch the proceedings. If landings are on Runway 14 (only about 30% of the time) you can get very good shots of aircraft on short final. You can also get reasonable taxiing and line up shots by climbing onto the wall by the cemetery (please do not do this if there is a funeral in progress). The view of the stands is very limited from here. From this elevated spot you will see a large lake in your 2 o'clock position. If you follow the footpath around the lake you can get photos from a different angle in the afternoon - there's plenty of grass to lay out on if needed!
Terminal Spotting Info
The best views of the biz on the Multiflight apron are from the terminal. You get 10 minutes free parking in front of the terminal, so you can run up the stairs to look across to Multiflight - there are limited views from the upstairs cafe area. Every movement on the runways can be seen although you are looking through about 3 sets of windows and a walkway, therefore photo shots are impossible. From this area you can only see limited stands at the western end containing the smaller commuter types. If leaving the terminal take a right turn and walk past departures and you get a view of around half of the larger stands. The best views can be found off airport.
LBA Spotters, Leeds-Bradford Email Group
For airport parking visit
or
Last reported March 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LEEDS-CONEY PARK HELIPORT, YORKS
Spotting Info
Head north on A658 and go under the Leeds-Bradford airport runway. Coney Park is on the left. Any helicopters parked outside can be seen from the customer car park.
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LEEMING AIRFIELD, YORKS - TWR 120.5, 122.1, APP 123.3, 127.75
Spotting Info
Just off A1 south of Leeming. Head South through Leeming village towards Londonderry along Leeming Lane and the dedicated viewing area is on the left just as you leave Leeming village. This road has a small wall running along it over which you have a decent view of the visitors and 100 Sq ramp with a good pair of bins or scope. XA634 Javelin is preserved near the entrance of the base, but I believe it's only visible from Leeming Lane that runs south past the viewing area on the west side. XV499 Phantom is also stored here and should be visible from the viewing area.
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LEICESTER AIRFIELD, LEICS - TWR 122.125
Spotting Info
Southeast of Leicester, get on B592 and follow signs for Aerodrome and University. Drive past University and turn right at next T-junction (not signposted). Airfield is on left. Drive to end of track and
main hangar is on right. Drive along taxiway (keep good lookout) and park in car park by tower, where you can see the aircraft that are parked behind the main hangar. Friendly, ask in reception in main tower/club building for access to hangars, a hi-viz vest is required and you must tell them when you leave. There are gaps in the large black hangar if it's shut. If the large black hangar is open, on the left as you enter is the unmarked frame of G-MWPS Renegade Spirit. There are a lot of T67s based here at the moment awaiting sale. They are in their own separate area and are roped off. DO NOT cross the ropes, all aircraft are clearly visible and you can read the letters off the tails for the registrations. There are only a couple that don't have registrations on the tails, these start G-BUUx as opposed to the usual G-BWXx batch and you should still be able to read the last letter on the fuselage. To the right of the T67s is a small building for maintenance. At weekends it's shut, but during the week, if it's open you should be able to log one or two more and there's usually one of the T67s in there too. On Fridays the T67s have engine runs so they get moved around as well.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LEUCHARS AIR BASE, FIFE
Spotting Info
Southeast of the town and on the coastline. Follow the signs. At the main entrance, XT864 Phantom and ZE967 Tornado are the gate guards, ask the guards if you can photograph them, permission has been granted before, following a polite request. For the stored XV586 Phantom you have to drive past the main gate, turn right and follow the fence round. It will come into view in front of you. XR713 Lightning is the gate guard for 111 Squadron on the south side and can easily be viewed between the shelters from the A91 to the south of the airport. You can also see stored XV582 Phantom from here too - park your car at Fast 'n Fresh, walk back 200 yards and from here you can see the Phantom in front of the HAS area. To stay for any length of time, the only place to park up is just as you exit the A919 and head towards the base on Main Street. There is a fairly large area for lots of cars to park and from there you can pick your vantage point. Easy to see the main ramp and read off the movements. Good for photos of 09 arrivals but you're looking at the base through a tall fence. There is also a field on the west side of Main Street you can walk up and look straight down the main runway. Also for 09 arrivals there is a hill with a mast on the other side of the railway line - great view to be had here and is very popular during the show.
RAF Leuchars Air Show
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LEWES-SWANBOROUGH FARM AIRFIELD, SUSSEX
Spotting Info
Head south out of Lewes town on Kingston Road towards Iford and Rodmell. After a left bend you'll pass Wellgreen Lane on the right. Take the next left track, The Droveway, signed Swanborough Fisheries. If you miss it and reach the right hand turn to Swanborough then you've gone too far. Head down the track and at the bottom of the hill by the sewage works turn right up a rough track. One hangar is at the top of the slope and the other is across the runway at the bottom of the hill. This is a private strip so contact in advance to save a wasted trip as it's not often aircraft are parked outside or flying either and the owner wants to be present when anyone is visiting.
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LINTON-on-OUSE, YORKS
Spotting Info
North of the village, follow the signs. There is a dedicated viewing area on the southern perimeter with good views across the ramp - anything parked out is read off easily. This is at a white crash gate set aside specifically for cars to park and to view, though there is only room for 6 cars so you need to get there early. This is the only spot you need to go to for the active ramp - you'll see all the flightlined Tucanos from here and it's a good place to photograph aircraft taxiing to and from the runway. ZF202 Tucano is the gate guard, parked inside the main gate on the right, but I think it's too far in to be seen from the gate and XN589 Jet Provost is on display at Cheshire Hall and a base tour (which includes escorted hangar access) will need to be arranged in order to see it.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LIPPITTS HILL HELIPAD, ESSEX
Spotting Info
Head north on A112 through Sewardstone and turn right onto Mott Street. Turn right onto Lippitts Hill and it's on the right as the road bends round to the right. Hangar and helipad are not visible from
the road and there's no access.
Last reported March 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LISKEARD HELIPORT, CORNWALL
Spotting Info
Head south out of Liskeard on A38 and it's on the right after 3 miles. You'll need to turn right off this busy dual carriageway and there won't be any warning - at the right turn is a brown tourist sign 'Castle Air Charters'. The heliport is adjacent to the A38 to the south side, and as you turn off, you will be greeted by an ex-RAF Lightning XS936 on a pole at the entrance and a large collection of second-hand cars (Castle Motors was their original business). Go past the car sales area to the heliport behind. The heliport ramps are easily visible from the adjacent public road, with a low white fence marking the edge. Photography of helicopters on the ramp is simple. Sometimes the hangar doors are open too, particularly in the summer. Castle Air are generally very friendly, and happy to give hangar tours if they have someone available to escort you, though it won't always be possible. Best to visit during the week as they aren't usually open at weekends, ask at reception. They are also happy for you to call in advance and arrange your visit, that way you'll know someone will be available to show you round.
Castle Air
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LITTLE GRANSDEN-FULLERS HILL FARM AIRFIELD, CAMBS - TWR 130.85
Spotting Info
Just off the B1046, west of Cambridge. Turn into farm, turn right, then left and park. Walk around to the right and ask in control tower for permission - usually friendly airfield, but it is preferred that you call to ask permission beforehand. Please note that while owner Mark Jefferies is content for enthusiast visits WITH PRIOR PERMISSION, he does NOT approve of any logs appearing in print or on the internet etc. Please do not send or post logs anywhere or they could well refuse your entry to the airfield, as has happened at many other airfields.
Last reported July 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LITTLE RISSINGTON AIRFIELD, GLOUCS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Upper Rissington, entrance is on the left as you pass the airfield. If the Devonair gate is locked then there's no one at the airfield and there's no access from the industrial estate. It's best to contact them in advance via the website below to arrange a visit. Friendly, ask in the office in the first hangar for access. 637VGS are also based here. If you contact them in advance they are usually happy to accommodate your visit.
Devonair
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LITTLE SNORING AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
From Fakenham, head east on A148, over roundabout, through crossroads, take next left, then right, then left and follow the road. An alternate entrance, instead of the last left turn, go past it, then take second left. Well signposted. Ask at each hangar or in the clubhouse for access, friendly. West of the main clubhouse and hangar area, and set much further back away from the main taxiway and with it's own small grass runway are a smaller set of hangars. Also friendly here.
McAully Flying Group
Last reported August 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LITTLE STAUGHTON AIRFIELD, CAMBS - TWR 123.925
Spotting Info
Head south out of Little Staughton village and after about a mile you'll pass the end of the runway on your left. Take next left and follow road all way round. Sometimes at weekends, particularly Sundays, the barrier is down with security present so you'll have to tell them you're visiting Colton but I don't know if you'll be let in or not. Past Norvic Aero Engines on right and a barrier on left and head towards a disused control tower on left. The hangar next to this tower has contained light aircraft in the past. Then continue on to Colton Aviation. Friendly, access no problem. On the other side of the runway is a hangar containing two aircraft. To get here, turn right out of the main entrance, head through the hamlet and take the first right onto Moor Road. Round the sharp left right bends, and as you come out of the shallow left right bends, turn right, follow the road left and you'll see the hangar on the left. Should be gaps to read them off.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LITTON CHENEY-STANCOMBE FARM AIRFIELD, DORSET
Spotting Info
Head east out of Bridport on A35. After approximately 5 miles you will come to a crossroads - the right turn leads to Litton Cheney village, turn left for the strip and it's on the left. If it's all closed up a couple should be able to be read off.
Last reported May 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LIVERPOOL JOHN LENNON AIRPORT, MERSEY - TWR 126.35, APP 119.85
Terminal Area Spotting Info
Off M62 at J6, follow signs. Main Terminal - Car park is £1.50 minimum and the only place to view is to come out of the terminal and turn right, walk through the car park and see what is parked at the side of the terminal - this is normally Easyjet A319s. Ryanair tend to park at the front of the terminal. If you come out of the terminal and turn left you can walk to the roundabout and turn left and see some more of the ramp. In the car, as you drive round the terminal area there is a very small gap at the eastern end to see aircraft parked out on the stands outside these hangars. To see some biz that may park away from the GA area, you need to head towards the fuel farm. As you leave the terminal, at the roundabout where you'd turn to exit, head straight across. There is a gate across the road which is usually open, and there is a security hut down that road, but they won't normally bother you if don't hang around too long.
East Side Spotting Info & Light Aircraft
Light aircraft are parked on the east side of the airport near the 27 threshold and can not be seen from terminal. Drive out of terminal and take first right onto Dunlop Road. Follow road past control tower and keep going until you see light aircraft on your right. There are plenty of pulling in places and you can park on the pavement alongside the fence. Take the next right, Dungeon Lane, and the next right again for the GA and flying schools. Most can be logged from the car park though for a small donation to charity you may be taken round the hangars. If you are on public transport, take the 89a Arriva bus and ask the driver to drop you off at Dungeon Lane. Then cross the road and it's around a 10-15 minute walk. Buses are every 20 mins during the day.
The Mound
If 27 is in use, The Mound is the best place to log the movements and take photos. From the light aircraft area above, simply continue south down Dungeon Lane and you will see the mound on your left - an excellent vantage point.
Former Speke Airport
To view G-ANCF Britannia fuselage, G-JMAC J41, G-AMLZ Prince, G-ORAL HS748 nose and G-SEXY AA1, they are visible round the back of the old airport terminal, now the Liverpool Crown Plaza hotel. Go past the hotel on your left with the FSM DH89 Dragon Rapide BAPC-280 marked "G-AJCL" on the roundabout, to the next set of lights, and turn left. Go down here to a big stone gateway on the left, and turn through it. Go along the edge of the Mersey (should be on your right), take the left turning and when you see the old tower on your left in the distance go up to the right hand bend. The Britannia and the others will be straight in front of you. Alternatively, you may be able to see across from the business parks on the east side of the old terminal complex.
North West Air News, NWAN Forum
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Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LONDON BATTERSEA HELIPORT (EGLW), GT LONDON
Spotting Info
Alongside the River Thames in Battersea and signposted from the A3205. Difficult if you have a car but if you're arriving by train, leave Clapham Junction by the northern exit from the station underpass, signposted Grant Road exit. Turn right outside the station entrance and at the T-junction turn left onto A3207 Falcon Road. Follow this to the major crossroads and turn left onto A3205 York Road. At the first set of lights turn right into Lombard Road and the heliport is the first left. Walk down here and the Heliport entrance is straight in front of you that has a security gate, so presumably no access. There is a tight mesh fence that surrounds the heliport, so whilst you can see through it to log everything, it's no good for photos. If you walk to the left past Hotel Verta, then turn right and walk to the river, then right again behind the hotel, you again reach the heliport, with a view right across it. Back to Lombard Road, turn left and continue until you reach a block of flats with a small piece of land on the left hand side of the road next to the river with a footpath and some trees. There are benches here where you can sit and you will see clearly all heliport movements. No facilities here so in the station use the shops for food and drink supplies and the toilets. Walking time from the station to the benches is around 30 minutes and whilst there is a quicker route through some back streets, this area is not safe so you are strongly advised to stick to the main roads. Alternatively, there is a bus that runs from outside Clapham Junction north entrance to outside the entrance in Lombard Road. On the other side of the river there is a Sainsbury's to park up in but views are distant. It's worth checking the London Heliport website for their special event days as it gets very busy. Weekdays are obviously busier than weekends, but you still only get a maximum of 4 or 5 movements per hour and they rarely stay any length of time as there's limited parking - 2 large helis or 4 small ones. Any major event nearby will boost movements, Royal Ascot, SBAC Farnborough Air Show, the Derby, British F1 Grand Prix etc. Quite often if something is due, cars with chauffeurs, or taxis will be parked in the heliport entrance.
Last reported March 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LONDON CITY AIRPORT, GT LONDON - TWR 118.075, APP 132.7
Spotting Info
Alongside the River Thames in North Woolwich. As this is a commuter airport it shuts Saturday 12:30pm to Sunday 12:30pm and the best times to visit during the week are 0700-1000 and 1630-2000, but there are movements throughout the day. If you are driving you can park up in Armada Way just to the north of the 28 approach or in the Ramada Hotel and Premier Inn car park north of the airport, though the hotel car park costs £2 per hour from 0930-1730 - it's free outside of these hours. However the pub car park next to these hotels is free but often busy. Alternatively, the car park at the Travelodge below is open to the public at just £1 per hour. Alternatively, parking down Thames Road on the south side (just up the road from the Travelodge and very near the Esso garage) is free all day, no parking restrictions and just a short walk to the biz parking area and bridge. Northside Richard House Drive similarly has no parking restrictions and is just a 5 minute walk to the Royal Albert DLR. If you're after the British Airways A318s, if they are running on time then they'll both be on the ground between 1030am-1230pm, as will most of the Embraers, though the Embraers should all be there in the evening. If you're just dropping by to see what's parked up over the weekend while the airport is shut, you're not always guaranteed an A318 as it goes to Gatwick for maintenance but you'll see some E170s. Travelling by bus, bus 473 (from Stratford) and bus 474 (from Silvertown and East Beckton) both stop at the Royal Albert DLR.
Northside Spotting
The easiest option is get on the DLR (which is easily reached via the tube from London Mainline railway termini and also the DLR connects with mainline trains at Lewisham, Canning Town and Stratford stations). You need to go to Royal Albert DLR station north of the airport across the river (on the Beckton line). You'll see the airport so head towards and you'll see the benches by the river. No toilets but there is a coffee bar with extra seating - they don't mind us using their seats during quiet periods as long you keep buying things every now and then. A great place for photos as there's no wall or fencing in the way. There's no cover so if it's raining stay on the westbound platform as you can get a good view of the airport. From here, the airport is fully visible and the movements can be easily seen and photographed - there is only a stretch of water between you and the runway. You are looking south but can still get good photos. A walk to the airport terminal will probably take 10-15 mins but there are no views from inside the terminal (landside).
Terminal & Southside Spotting
No views from inside the terminal but in front of the car park east of the terminal, there is a covered walkway from where you can see all the arrivals and departures. No problems staying here all day and photos of movements are good as you are facing north. Aircraft on the terminal are not visible until they come out to take off.
Bizjet Apron
To get a good view of the bizjet park, take bus 69 or 473 one stop to the bizjet centre (or turn right out of the terminal and walk) and walk up the road. Turn right, there is a wall to sit on and they're right in front of you. From the other direction, walk from the Regatta Centre towards the airport, cross over the footbridge and a public footpath takes you past the stands. The operators of the biz terminal are a little sensitive so don't hang around here as you may be questioned and moved on.
Spotting Hotels
At the Travelodge, ask for a high floor room at the front of the hotel (facing north towards the airport). If you're high enough you can see the biz ramp and movements depending on wind direction and have decent views of aircraft taxiing on or off stand. Rooms 503-509, odds only, and 513 are excellent examples of this, and remember when booking to request a family room even if you are on your own or you may not get a north facing room. Looking south from the hotel you can see Heathrow arrivals if they're using 27s and an SBS will certainly help you tie them up. Food and drink at the hotel is expensive - turn left out of the hotel, follow the low fence round and you'll see a petrol station on the roundabout selling food and drink. The hotel reception also has a takeaway menu for a local Indian food takeaway that delivers to the hotel and they'll supply plates, forks etc if you arrange a delivery. The car park is open to the public at just £1 per hour. If you book during their special offer periods you can often get exceptionally low nightly rates.
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Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LONDON COLNEY AIRFIELD, HERTS - TWR 129.825
Spotting Info
The Airfield is located behind the Moquito Museum just south of junction 22 on the M25 Motorway. When you take the slip road to the roundabout head for South Mimms, go just beyond the Mosquito Museum entrance and turn right onto a narrow road/path through a metal gate. You follow this, keeping the Museum on your right and follow the road around the back. Turn left and keep going until you come to the wind-sock on your right. If all is clear and the gate is open drive on the right hand side of the main runway, they are based at the junction of both the runways.
Hertfordshire Microlight Club
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LONDON COLNEY-de HAVILLAND HERITAGE MUSEUM, HERTS
Spotting Info
Off M25 J22, at the roundabout take the 4th exit and follow the signs. Round the back of the toilet block, there are some more exhibits stored externally in the staff car park. Open from the first Sunday of March to the last Sunday of October. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays it's open from 1400-1730 with Sundays and Bank Holidays open from 1030-1730. Admission is £6 for adults and £3 for children.
Mosquito Aircraft Museum
Last reported March 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LONG MARSTON AIRFIELD, WARWICKS
Spotting Info
On B4632 south of Stratford-upon-Avon. Follow the signs. As you enter the airfield, you will see the museum straight ahead. Drive along next to it, keeping it on your left and you will pass two hangars on your right. Park up in front of clubhouse. Access to hangars is usually given upon request in clubhouse. To the left of the clubhouse is another larger hangar. Also, if you drive past both hangars and follow the road down to the end there are two aircraft with their own 'houses'. Behind the clubhouse and across the grass is another hangar and clubhouse. Head back towards the museum and turn left. You will drive through an industrial area of sorts before you get to this hangar. Either ask at the hangar or the clubhouse.
Last reported May 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LONG MYND AIRFIELD, SHROPS - A/G 129.825
Spotting Info
Head south into Church Stretton town on the A49 and at the main traffic lights, turn right and go over the railway bridge. At the crossroads with the bank in front of you, go straight over and follow the road round past the houses. Stay on this road for approximately 4 miles and the entrance is on the left. The road is narrow, one lane, but there are passing places so take care when driving along here. Access is via a gated drive - shut the gate after entering and again when leaving. Friendly, ask for access.
Midland Gliding Club
Last reported September 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LONGBRIDGE DEVERILL-WING FARM AIRFIELD & GALAXY MICROLIGHTS WORKSHOPS
Spotting Info
Head west out of Longbridge Deverill village and the strip is on the left. Owners are cautious due to people wandering around without permission. You MUST ask in order to enter workshops and hangars - if they are shut, stay away from them and don't wander around the airfield. The Galaxy Microlights workshops are located at Broomclose Farm. Turn left out of Wing Farm airfield and the workshops are halfway along the Wing Farm runway on the right. You'll also see a gap in the hedges on the left for aircraft to cross the road. The owner of Galaxy Microlights, Mark Jones, is very friendly. Contact him in advance on 07841 614577 to arrange a tour and with a small donation he'll show you where all the various aircraft are hidden away.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LONGFRAMLINGTON-ATHEY'S MOOR AIRFIELD, NORTHUMBERLAND
Spotting Info
Head north through Longframlington village and turn right opposite the church. Go down the lane for about half a mile and the hangars and strip are on the right. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LOWER UPHAM-PHOENIX FARM AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
Just southeast of Lower Upham village off the B2177. The entrance is off the main road immediately opposite the place selling caravans and motorhomes. Drive up the track to the parking spaces at the top, then walk through the trees to the hangar and Solent Flight office. Friendly, ask for access, which should be granted but no photos are to be taken. There are currently two Taylorcrafts under rebuild here - G-CGTA and G-CGTB. If you wish to see them, please do not ring Solent Flight, but you are welcome to ring the owner, Darren Busby, on 07769 635411 or email him. He is an active member of some spotting groups and is a spotter himself so will try and accommodate you if he can. Please bear this in mind when contacting him and asking for his assistance.
Last reported November 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LOWER UPHAM-ROUGHAY FARM AIRFIELD, HANTS
Spotting Info
Head north out of Lower Upham village on B2177 and take the first right at a triangle junction after a short drive onto Hatchley Lane. Road takes a sharp left and becomes Red Lane and the strip is up here on the right. They do not like visitors, whether it's spotters or visiting aircraft.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LUDHAM AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
Head north on A149 out of Bastwick, past A1062 turning then take next left, right, left, right. Very friendly, ask for access. If no one's around the hangar has gaps to read off one or two.
Ludham Airfield
Last reported August 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LUTON AIRPORT (EGGW/LTN), BEDS - TWR 132.55, APP 129.55
Spotting Info
Off M1 J10 and follow the signs. Being the busiest airport in the UK for bizjets, the authorities are very aware of our hobby, and are happy with us as long as we keep clear of restricted areas. Most can be logged from various places around the airport so there's no excuses.
Bizjets and Terminal Spotting Info
Approaching the airport along the A1081, you'll reach the Percival Way roundabout, take the third exit towards the terminal. Before you go under the bridge, turn right into the Mid Term Car Park. It's free parking for one hour, but if you go over the hour, you'll be charged the full one day rate of £17.50 so don't be late. However the hour is more than enough time to log the biz and the aircraft at the terminal. From the car park you may have views across to the south stands so log those, otherwise, cross the road and up the steps by the Holiday Inn. The apron here is 'The Pond' but you can also see across to the south stands, and keep an eye on the runway as movements can be logged from here. Follow the fence round to the right and keep looking through the gaps for the different angles. Once everything is logged head back to the left and if the Gulfstream hangar is open you may log one or two. Beyond the hangar is the 'NWC' (North West Corner) apron and Signature 'HoD' (Hangar of Doom due to the amount of biz crammed in there with little chance of reading them all off!). Again follow the fence towards the hangar, and also towards the security barrier but don't get too close to them and they aren't keen on you standing right next to the fencing either. You can also see some terminal stands from here. You can now walk back to the car and through the tunnel to the terminal if you wish. Walking through the drop off zone will give you views of these stands and of the Harrods ramp. Then back to the car - it's a fair bit of walking but as long as you keep an eye on the time you can do it in an hour. Alternatively, you can park at the Luton Airport Parkway Station car park for £6.20 a day, and for £2.50 return, the shuttle bus will take you to either the Holiday Inn or the terminal. Buses run from 0500-0000, every 10 minutes and takes less than that to drive between points.
Cargo & Harrods Spotting Info
Back to the Percival Way roundabout by the Holiday Inn and head up Percival Way, past all the bizjets. At the mini roundabout turn right, follow to the end and park sensibly on the yellow lines. You'll have to get out of the car to walk to the fence for views of cargo, Harrods, some terminal stands and the biz next to the HoD/NWC but you won't need to be there long. Some people stay there for a while but it's not great for runway movements and you may get moved on. Back to the mini roundabout and turn right. Keep looking right for aircraft between the gaps in the buildings. Just beyond the 90 degree right hand bend you can park up on the right for good views of cargo and any biz parked there, but again, you can't stay here long. Continue past the back of the Harrods hangar and there's a lay-by on the left before the car park entrance. Pull in here if there isn't any heavy machinery and you can walk through the car park right up to the Harrods ramp fence to read off any you may still be missing.
Movements Spotting Info
If you want to spend any length of time here, the best place is the south side crash gate, though it's not good for photos due to the fence. There are back roads that take you from cargo round the eastern perimeter but if you're not familiar with the area it's better to head back to the Percival Way/Holiday Inn roundabout and take the exit AFTER the A1081, which will take you down to the A505 roundabout. Straight over this one and the next, and left at the mini roundabout at the end. Straight over the next mini roundabout, and at the double roundabouts go straight over them both to head under the dual carriageway. This is the B653 and follows the railway line for some time. After a mile of so, turn left at the crossroads onto Chiltern Green Road and after a right hand bend take the next left. Follow this road straight and on a sharp right bend, fork left at the triangle junction. Follow to the end for the crash gate, but you'll most likely see lots of other vehicles there too, and not just from spotters. Just before the gate there are a few parking spaces if you nose on to the fence but the last two before the weeds are too high and are for 4x4 vehicles only, or you'll damage your car. If these are full you can park further down the lane away from the gate, but park as much on the verge as you can in case of emergencies. The runway is right in front of you and arrivals on 26 will touch down right in front of you too. You also have distant views of the biz aprons so keep an eye on them being towed out of hangars. It's still good for 08 movements but departures will probably be in the air by the time they reach you, so log them as they taxi out, and arrivals may turn off mid runway so don't get caught out.
Airside Spotting Info
Bar10 airside has good views. Usually a left side window seat will give you the best chance of logging as you taxi out. If you have to leave your car at the airport while you're away for a trip, you can find some good prices for parking at Luton airport if you go through the easyjet website.
Planespotting Hotels
The Holiday Inn overlooks The Pond apron and a couple of terminal stands so you can log from the rooms. After you make your reservation you can ring the hotel and request a north facing room, they are very accommodating and you can spot from the room with no problems. Room 541 is a good example. You can apply for a Holiday Inn Priority card and you get first choice of rooms. The cafe area also has windows and there's no problem spotting from there as long as you keep making purchases and don't make a lot of noise, no radios etc. In the unlikely event that you can't get a good enough room, there are windows halfway down the corridor, and at the ends and it's just a short walk outside. The local spotters have a good relationship with the hotel manager and staff, who understand our hobby, but recently some of the customers had complained to them that some spotters were using foul and abusive language. The fence around The Pond apron is the Holiday Inn car park and we are expected to act with respect at all times. If you hear or see any spotters, or anyone else for that matter, misbehaving in any way, please contact the hotel staff so they can deal with it.
The Ibis is down the hill from the Holiday Inn and therefore has no ramp views, but it's a 2 minute walk up the hill to get there. They have a balcony and if 08 is in use, it's a great place for a few drinks on a warm day.
Luton Airport Spotters, AeroReg Spotting at Luton, Luton Airport Spotters Email Group, Luton Spotters Email Group
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Last reported December 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LYDD AIRPORT (EGMD/LYX), KENT - TWR 128.525, APP 120.7
Spotting Info
East of village off B2075 and signposted from A259. Most aircraft can be viewed from inside terminal at flying club, restaurant, table area outside and the fence in the car park. Contact in advance through their website below may get you an airside tour. Otherwise ask at the information desk in the terminal. As always access is dependent on a member of staff being available to escort you round but they are friendly and a hi-viz jacket is required.
Lydd Aero Club
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LYMM DAM-YEW TREE FARM AIRFIELD, CHESHIRE
Spotting Info
Off M56 J9, over M6, under M56, turn right at roundabout then take 3rd exit at next roundabout onto A50. Go over M56 and take next left. Over M56 again, left at T-junction and strip is on the left.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LYNEHAM AIR BASE (EGDL/LYE), WILTS - TWR 119.225, APP 118.425
Spotting Info
Once in Lyneham, follow the signs. There are various views from around the perimeter and tracks that lead up to the fence.
Website: Thunder and Lightnings' Lyneham Viewing Guide
Last reported March 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
LYVEDEN AIRFIELD, NORTHANTS
Spotting Info
Head north on the A6116 towards Brigstock and go past the left turn for it. Take the second right onto Harley Way and the entrance is around half a mile on the left, not long after the crossroads. Friendly, ask for access.
Welland Gliding Club
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MANCHESTER AIRPORT, GTR MANCH - TWR 118.625, APP 119.4
Spotting Info
Off M56 at J6, follow signs. Car park roof (level 13) of the Terminal 1 multi-storey car park is used by car rental companies so you'll have to park lower down, where the views are the same, and walk up if you prefer, but at £2 for 30 minutes, or £4 for one hour, it's too expensive to stay for long. Public footpath - exit airport and turn right at the roundabout. Continue, go through approach for 23R to the T-junction and turn right onto the B5166 Styal Road. Take the fourth right onto Moss Lane, go past G-AVFG Trident forward fuselage marked "G-SMOKE" as a fire training aid, double crash gates and pull in after Styal Show Ponies. About 150 yards past the show ponies, pull up where there is a signed bridleway on the right. Entrance is on right side of road and perfect for views of NEA's ramp where bizjets park, all of Terminal 3, some of Terminal 1 and tops of the tails on Terminal 2. Great for photos on 23R. You are advised to bring wellies as it gets very muddy, though if you follow the fence round it gets drier. A short walk up here and you are facing the Ocean Sky biz ramp. Anything parked in front of the hangars is visible where it wouldn't be from the multi storey car park.
Aviation Viewing Park (AVP)
Aviation Viewing Park (AVP) - south of cargo, close to 05L and signposted. Open 0800 until dusk every day except Christmas Day, the cost per car is £3 per hour or £12 per day, regardless of how many people in your car, so load it up and share the cost. Multi Entry Tickets are also available, which I believe are £25 for 25 visits, please enquire at the Aviation shop. Plus you get a further 10% off if you are a member of the Aviation Society when you purchase your ticket from the Aviation shop. The ticket covers one person for one visit and is not transferable. Tickets can be purchased from the attendant in the entry kiosk or from the Aviation Shop. Free entry for pedestrians, public transport users and bicycles. Great views of 05L/23R and it's ideal for photographs but Compass Bay and hangars block views of the terminals. 05R/23L is off to the right in the distance but anything using this runway has to taxi past so you won't miss anything. Preserved here are G-BOAC Concorde in its own hangar, XV231 Nimrod, G-AWZK Trident, G-IRJX 146 and G-DMCA DC10 nose. The AVP runs tours of Concorde and the Nimroad so it's best to book in advance as they fill up quickly. At weekends, at least one of their outdoor exhibits - the Trident, 146 or DC10 nose - are open free of charge. This is where you want to stay all day and then nip up the top of Terminal 1 car park in case there is anything parked up on the stands that you haven't seen. Or do the reverse. Alternatively, park in the Travelodge, pay and
display is £5 all day and it's then a 15-20 minute walk to the AVP through cargo. If it's open, the Ellie8 cafe in the cargo area comes recommended.
Spotting in the Terminals
Terminal 1 airside - a cafe area allows views of traffic parked on the western side of pier B and the south side of pier C. If you are departing from a gate on pier C you can look out onto Terminal 2 apron, but there is no way back when you've entered this area. Pier B views are good either side, but little else can be seen except passing traffic. Terminal 1 you need to go down the pier (gates 1-13) for decent views. The other pier in T1 (20s gates) also gives some views but not much use for photos. You can see T2 and cargo from here. When you land here, you're shepherded straight to arrivals. Terminal 2 only has views airside, and then mostly of aircraft parked on that apron area, those parked on Terminal 1 pier C facing north and cargo movements. Terminal 3 again only has views airside, this time looking out between piers A and B of Terminal 1. You can also see traffic landing on 23R and if it's between 12:00pm and 3:00pm, traffic taxiing to use this runway. Terminal 3 is closest to the runway, but you can see very little of what's already in, so mainly it's movements only. You can spot from the airside gate at any of the 3 terminals when checked in, with different results.
Planespotting Hotels
The Travelodge is within walking distance of the AVP, approximately 10 minute walk - cross over the road from the Travelodge, head right and follow the road round to the left at the roundabout. Fork left and it will bring you to the viewing park which is signposted. From the hotel you can see the aircraft on approach or after take off depending on wind directions. You will need an SBS box for the registrations though. The best rooms are even numbered in the range 330-352, the higher floor the better. The car park costs £5 per day whether you are staying here or not, cheaper than a day ticket at the AVP though. You can't see the aircraft from the ground because of the freight buildings. If you head left out of the Travelodge, away from the main roundabout, after about 200 yards you come to a path which takes you around the perimeter for views. To travel to the terminals, there's the No 18 Arriva bus (or the 19 if your travelling 0300-0500). Or the Travelodge operates a mini bus to and from the airport for a fee.
TAS The Aviation Society, Manchester Spotters Email Group, Manchester Movements Email Group
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Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MANCHESTER-MUSEUM of SCIENCE & INDUSTRY, GTR MANCH
Spotting Info
Inside the city ringroad alongside the A6143. Museum of Science & Industry
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MANSTON/KENT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (EGMH/MSE), KENT - TWR 119.925, APP 126.350
Spotting Info
On A253 west of Ramsgate. Starting from the far west end - north of the western threshold, off the airfield on an industrial estate, is a hangar with helicopters - The Helicopter Centre. There are usually a couple parked outside. Permission at the helipad is normally granted to look but not touch. Head upstairs to reception and ask, access usually only granted if an engineer is available to escort you round. It's best to contact them in advance. The B2190 road, Spitfire Way, runs parallel to the north side of the runway for a long way. It ultimately comes to a group of ex-RAF hangars, which now serve as freight sheds. On the apron in front of these are parked a couple of stored DC8s owned by MK, and often one or two of their DC8s or B747Fs handling cargo on a daily timetable. These can be read off from the lay-by and crash gate before you get to the aircraft or from the museums described below near the staggered crossroads. After the freight, you come to a staggered crossroads. If you go straight on here, on the right on the crossroads is the RAF Manston History Museum. Several aircraft are on display here for a small admission fee. Just beyond this museum is the RAF Manston Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum. This is open daily, is free but donations are very welcome and are clearly put to good use so it's highly recommended, and contains a Spitfire and Hurricane, restored to a high standard, and some WWII memorabilia. It also has the Merlin Cafe. Between the two museums is a car park which I believe serves both museums. Continuing northwards from the museums, the road goes impressively close past an area often used for long-term parking by airliners. 9G-MKA DC8 has been stored here for some time but is due to move to Lelystad to the Aviodrome Museum. There are a couple of gates on the right if you want to stop briefly. On the opposite side of the road here is the Ministry of Defence Defence Fire Training and Development Centre - training ground for the RAF fire-school. The frames present are WK124 Canberra, XR503 Wessex, XS714 125 Dominie, XV411 Phantom, XV864 Buccaneer, XW922 Harrier upside down, XX116 Jaguar, XZ966 Harrier and ZE360 Phantom - their locations are all plotted in the Spotting in the UK Download for Google Earth and SatNavs. Fairly recent additions XV229 Nimrod, XV725 Wessex, XW768 Harrier and XW870 Gazelle are also present but not plotted until a more recent image becomes available. There are 3 crash gates on this side which may give you a distant view but you'll need to gain some height due to the grass mound. Just XR503 Wessex, XS714 Dominie and ZE360 Phantom are visible from the road. You can also try entering the main entrance and turn left before the barrier. This will then take you round and back out but may give you a view of some of the frames. You can gain access to view and photograph the aircraft but your visit must be prearranged via their website above and a donation to the CO's fund is expected. Returning to the crossroads again and turning left/east, the road continues alongside a chain-link fence, the first section of which is removable to allow the 747s to be towed to and from the airport. At the far end it comes to the civil terminal. Just before the turning to the terminal there is a small spectator car park on the north side of the road. This gives a view of things parked on the central long-term parking area and the apron outside the terminal, also sometimes aircraft being worked on in the Modern Jet Support company hangar. You can also walk along the road to get a better angle if required. Turning right, you can also use the free car park by the terminal, which includes a restaurant and a travel agents shop. At the far end of this side-road, you come to the TG Aviation flying club. Park on the left, either in the area beside the hangar or, if dry, on the grass just before you get to this bit. On the grass here and fenced off is the cockpit of a long-since scrapped B747. The hangar contains the resident light aircraft. It is difficult to see much into the hangar from the fence but ask for access, it is sometimes given. Again there is a view across to any airliners you may have not read off from other viewpoints. Also walking to the end of the road to the gate, you can see any light parked in front of the clubhouse. Permission may be given to go in to the hangar if an escort is available. Also here are Polar Helicopters. Friendly, ask for access to their hangar.
Manston Movements, London Manston Email Group
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MANTON-ELM TREE PARK AIRFIELD, WILTS
Spotting Info
Head west on A4 out of Marlborough. Strip and workshop are on right just before the crossroads. Friendly, ask for access, though best to visit during the week when they are present.
Last reported June 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MAPPERLEY-PARK HALL FARM AIRFIELD, DERBS
Spotting Info
Head west out of Ilkeston on A609. go over Mapperley crossroads and head into Stanley Common. At the crossroads turn right towards Mapperley Park. After about a mile the road bends sharply to the right, just before this, on the left is the entrance to Park Hall Farm. The place is a riding stables as well as a microlight strip and as you approach the buildings there is a sign quite high up pointing to the strip, which is off to the right. There are two hangars - the one that the sign directs you towards has the rigged machines and there is another building back amongst the stables and general farm buildings. You must arrange your visit in advance, they are friendly and will grant access, please call either of these numbers to do so: Office 01158 776659 or Mobile 07974 466923.
Last reported October 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MARGAM-OLD PARK FARM AIRFIELD, GLAMORGAN, WALES
Spotting Info
From the M4 at Junction 38, take the A48 towards Pyle and after about a mile turn right onto Old Park road, though it's little more than a track. Fork left and follow it right to the end for the strip. This airfield is completely enclosed within PRIVATE farm land. Virtually all the residents are hangared and very little will be seen without permission to enter the sheep fields to get to the strip, and only
then if the hangars are open. Friendly, ask at the farmhouse for access.
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MARSHFIELD-GARSTON FARM AIRFIELD, WILTS - COLERNE TWR 120.075
Spotting Info
On A420 between Bath and M4 J18. From J18 head south on A46 through Pennsylvania and turn left at Cold Ashton roundabout to Chippenham (A420). Village is two miles on and Garston Farm is last farm on right after village - windsock can be seen from this road. Friendly, ask in the clubhouse or hangars for access, or if locked try the farmhouse at weekends, farmer usually too busy during the week.
Garston Farm
Last reported July 2005. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MAVIS ENDERBY-NORTHFIELD FARM AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
Head west out of Mavis Enderby village on the B1195 towards Lusby. You will pass Eastfield Farm on your right. The track for Northfield Farm is about half a mile on the right. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MAYPOLE AIRFIELD (EGHB), KENT - TWR 119.20
Spotting Info
As you head south through Maypole village on Maypole Road, the last turning on the right is the farm and airfield. Some resident pilots are happy to escort you round if the owner isn't around to ask, though access has been known to be denied. If the gate is padlocked then there's no one at the airfield.
Maypole Airfield
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MELBOURNE-MELROSE FARM AIRFIELD, YORKS
Spotting Info
Village is southeast of York near B1228. From village head south and turn left after 1 mile at crossroads. Go under power lines and take next right for strip. Airfield/drag racing strip well signposted though entrance to airfield is difficult to find. You have to drive through the farm and they park just south of the middle of the runway. Only go on Saturdays when the gyros are flying - most are in containers with a couple more and a few microlights in an open shed.
Last reported March 2008. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MELKSHAM-CRAYSMARSH FARM AIRFIELD, WILTS
Spotting Info
This is a very private strip and you are asked to seek permission first, before visiting. Head east out of town on A365. At the Redstocks-Seend crossroads, the immediate left goes to Redstocks, the second left will take you to the strip, there should be signs for the market here too. Ask for permission to access the hangars though it will likely be denied.
Last reported June 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MEMBURY AIRFIELD, BERKS
Spotting Info
Head south out of Lambourn on B4000. After a couple of miles turn right and go over the M4. Almost immediately over the motorway, Southern Sailplanes have their works on the left hand side. A bit less than a mile further on, on the right, seemingly going into an industrial/farm complex is a road which, if followed, comes out by the strip. Friendly, ask for access. Heading back out of the strip entrance, turn left to head back towards the M4 bridge and take the second road on the right. This large building on the right is the Southern Sailplane workshops and is split into different sections. If no one is present there are windows all around it to log everything parked inside in the different sections.
Last reported October 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MENDLESHAM AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head south out of Wetherup Street and it's on the right.
Suffolk Coastal Floaters Hang Gliding Club
Last reported May 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MEPPERSHALL-STANDALONE FARM AIRFIELD, BEDS - A/G 127.05
Spotting Info
This is a private airfield and you must ask for permission before entering the active area. This is a friendly strip but permission must be requested and granted before entering. Head south out of Campton village and turn left at the T-junction onto Campton Road. The airfield is on the right shortly after the right hand bend. There is a hangar with the owner's house behind it. Visitors are not welcome on Sundays, please respect this.
Last reported November 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MESSINGHAM (NORTH MOOR)-LOW HILL FARM AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
From Burringham, head towards Scunthorpe on B1450. Head over M181, past golf course on right and take next right - Scotter Road. Go over the M180 and it becomes North Moor Lane. Approx 1/2 mile on the right is West Common North Road - follow this for about 300/400yards and the airfield becomes visible on your left. The owner of the farm doesn't mind people calling, but aircraft owners have asked him not to let people look round, though their website contradicts this - phoning in advance may help, details on their website.
North Moor Aero Club
Last reported May 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MIDDLE STOKE AIRFIELD, KENT - A/G 118.925
Spotting Info
Head east on the A228 out of Stoke/Upper Stoke towards Lower Stoke. On the long sweeping left bend turn right and then turn left at the triangle junction at the end. The field is on the right at the back of this tiny village and its location can be seen off the main road, and is signposted. Follow this road almost to the end and park up near the hangar. This is the Medway Microlights factory and they are friendly, ask for access. Then walk past it, and head over the railway line for the airfield. Ask at the cabin on the airfield for access, they are friendly but they may restrict access to the few aircraft parked outside and the one large hangar which are the cabin side of the runway. You will need to be escorted airside as you'll be walking right alongside a very active runway. A lot of the hangars have see through doors. If you can't get access, follow the signs to the Anglian lakes - there is a footpath that runs parallel to the runway with the hangars opposite. If they're open, you should be able to read them off.
Medway Microlights and Medway Airsports
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MIDDLE WALLOP AIRFIELD-MUSEUM OF ARMY FLYING, HANTS
Spotting Info
Southwest of Andover just off A343. The only way to see the light aircraft, apart from a base tour, is to park in the museum car park. Sometimes they're parked on the grass near the emergency services area. Otherwise you can walk round the back of the museum and walk along the road to see what is parked outside the hangars. If you're lucky the hangar will be open. XP822 DHC2 and XP910 Scout are the museum's gate guards. WZ724 AOP9, XT827 Sioux marked "XT123" and XT638 Scout are the base gate guards just up the road from the museum. Travelling on the A343 from the museum to the main base entrance, at the base roundabout where the gate guards are on your right, turn left for the Army HQ. Just past the main car park is XX392 Gazelle preserved outside.
The Museum of Army Flying
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MILDEN-MOAT FARM AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head west out of Monks Eleigh, turn left onto B1115 and then left at the crossroads after 1 mile. Turn left towards and go through Milden village and strip is on the left.
Hawker Restorations
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MILDENHALL AIR BASE (EGUN/MHZ), SUFFOLK - TWR 122.55
John's Field Viewing Area
Just north of Mildenhall town along the A1101. There is a viewing area off Pollards Lane, known as John's Field, after the gentleman who owns the land and provides this viewing area for us. As you enter the field, pull in on the right where you'll find the box for the £1.50 entrance fee. There are well maintained toilets here and a soft drinks machine. Follow the track on and round to the right. There's a large trailer here for photos over the fenceline. You get a good overall view of the base here, with anything parked on both northern and southern aprons readable, but the more eastern aprons are a bit distant. A fantastic and very popular place, especially when 11 is in use for those landing shots, please make sure you pay the very small entrance fee, as it goes towards keeping this field open for us all. Turn left out of John's Field and after a short walk you'll reach Pollards Lane crash gate. I advise walking rather than driving as there's nowhere to park your car safely without blocking the crash gate. This gives you a different angle on the northern aprons, and a much better view of the southern ones.
Other Spotting Areas
From John's Field above, turn right out of it onto Pollards Lane and take the first left onto Jarman's Lane. Turn left at the end onto West Row Road and shortly on the left is the first pull in on this road. Due to the way aircraft are sometimes parked on this southern area, it can be difficult to log them. There are several pull ins, lay-bys and crash gates along this road that will help you log any that you weren't able to get from John's Field or the Pollards Lane crash gate above. You'll then pass some fields and enter Mildenhall town. At the mini roundabout, turn left onto the A1101, head straight over the mini roundabout and turn left at the next mini roundabout onto Hampstead Avenue. Ignoring the various business entrances, take the second road on the right, Folly Road, and follow it to the end. Park well clear of the crash gate, there's plenty of room. You can log anything parked on the eastern apron right next to this gate, plus anything parked beyond them. You also get a good view of the northern aprons that were a bit distant from John's Field. If there's anything parked on these northern ramps that you still need to get, head back to the mini roundabout and turn left onto the A1101. Follow the road round the perimeter, parallel with the runway, and take the next right onto St John's Street. Park up sensibly and walk back to the perimeter fence. A bit of walking should get you everything you need. As you turned left onto the A1101 you drive past a small copse. Walking through the copse will get you to the mound. High enough for photos over the fence, it's excellent for 29 ops, but I don't know where you would park your car in order to get here.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MILFIELD AIRFIELD, NORTHUMBERLAND
Spotting Info
Head south out of village on A697 and take first left. Take the first right, which is just before the bridge, follow the road round a couple of bends and airfield is on the right. Home of Borders Gliding Club and only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Very friendly, ask for access. There are more hangars on the west side of the airfield, just ask and you'll be escorted across by a member if they're available.
Borders Gliding Club
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MILSON-LITTLE DOWN FARM AIRFIELD, SHROPS - A/G 129.825
Spotting Info
Head north through village but turn left just before you leave (signed Coreley?). Strip is on right after a couple of bends.
Milson Airstrip
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MINTLAW-EASTER NETHER CABRA FARM AIRFIELD, ABERDEENSHIRE
Spotting Info
Not an easy strip to find so take care with these directions. Head west through Fetterangus village along the main road, Ferguson Street. At the end, turn right at the crossroads. The road will bend round to the left, ignore the two right turns here, go past a third right turn that leads to a house and take the next (fourth) right turn. The road bends right before straightening out and leading you to the farm. The road bends round the farm, and the track then continues on to the strip on the right. This is a very private strip and the owner does not welcome visitors.
Last reported June 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MONA AIRFIELD, ANGLESEY, WALES
Spotting Info
East of Gwalchmai village on the A5 and signposted. Ask at the flying club for access, they are friendly.
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MONEWDEN-CHERRY TREE FARM AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head west out of Monewden village on Curch Road and turn left at the crossroads. Follow the road round a sharp right bend and after a road on the left, the strip is on the left. Friendly, ask for access. Keep an eye out for Yak 52 G-BVVW, it's often parked halfway along the main runway, well away from the hangars.
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MORETON-IN-MARSH (TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT), GLOUCS
Spotting Info
When in town, head east on A44 and it's on the left. Could be signposted for Fire Training Establishment or similar. I don't know if access is possible but assume no. Head north out of the village centre on the A429 and take a right immediately after the railway bridge onto Todenham Road. Any views to be had are about half a mile up this lane on the right. If you reach a crossroads you've gone too far. Some squinting through gaps in hedges may be required for views of JP XM404 (parked towards the northern end of the northeast-southwest runway), the 'crashed' Hunter WT804, XP150 Wessex (next to each other close to Todenham Road) and the Viscount G-BAPF (eastern perimeter). As you continue north along Todenham Road you'll reach a crossroads at the end of the northern boundary, if you can turn right here down a track, it will take you past the Viscount and afford different views across the college. Also presumed based here in various states are G-AZDZ C172, G-BKRD C172, G-BPJT PA28 wings only, XP680 JP fuselage and XS598 Andover fuselage - some are probably indoors somewhere, others get moved around the base and hidden in obscure places, trees, ditches, to make training more difficult.
Last reported December 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MOVENIS-MCMASTER'S FARM AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
To the East of Garvagh, along minor roads. Head for Moneydig and a couple of miles along, the field (or at least the parachute club) is signed off to the left. Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
MULLAGHMORE-AGHADOWEY AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND
Spotting Info
Quite close to Movenis. To the east of the A54, six or seven miles north of Kilrea. The entrance is not that obvious and is through a farm-style gate onto the field. Follow the hard surface around and, eventually, end up at the clubhouse (I'm not sure that doesn't involve being on the runway at some point). Friendly, ask for access.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NAVESTOCK-JENKINS FARM AIRFIELD, ESSEX
Spotting Info
Head south out of Stapleford Abbots on B175. After 1 mile take a sharp left onto Tysea Hill and then continue straight on onto Muthering Lane. After about 1 mile the road bends left and the strip is on the right as the road bends to the right. If you get to the M25 you've gone too far.
Last reported December 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NAYLAND-HILL FARM AIRFIELD, SUFFOLK
Spotting Info
Head north out of Nayland on A134 and at B1087 crossroads turn left (NOT onto B1087). Take the next right and strip is on the right, just drive through the farm. Friendly, ask in clubhouse for access. It's best if you get an escorted tour as there are aircraft tucked away in various buildings.
Last reported November 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEEDHAM-GROVE FARM AIRFIELD, NORFOLK
Spotting Info
From Needham village head toward Harleston on B1134. At the roundabout take the A143 London bound. After half a mile turn right in to Upper Harmans Lane, then take the first left - Marther Lane. Keep straight on for half a mile and strip is on the left by farm.
Last reported February 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NETHERAVON AIRFIELD (EGDN), WILTS
Spotting Info
Just to the west of the town. If you take the road that runs across the north side of the airfield and park somewhere near Mile Ball, it brings you to the end of the runway and it's possible to see into the hangar if the doors are open.
Netheravon
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NETHERTHORPE AIRFIELD, YORKS - TWR 123.275
Spotting Info
Head southwest through Shireoaks, go over the level crossing next to the station and turn right (on a left bend) down Thorpe Lane marked for Thorpe Salvin. After a mile, on a sharp right bend, turn left. You'll head round a sharp left and the airfield is on the right. Very friendly, ask in clubhouse or control tower for access. Logging airside is only allowed with an escort, contacting beforehand to arrange a visit will get you a tour.
Phoenix Flying School, Sheffield Aero Club
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEW YORK-WHALEY FARM AIRFIELD, LINCS
Spotting Info
Head south out of town on B1192 and go over the Houghbridge Drain. After half a mile you will come to a crossroads, turn right down Mill Lane and it's on the right before Castle Dike.
Last reported May 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEWARK AIR MUSEUM, NOTTS
Spotting Info
Northeast of Newark-on-Trent off A46, follow the signs. There are several frames in storage and not open for public inspection. If you contact them in advance to arrange a visit, they are usually happy to show them to you if someone is available to show you round. A very friendly and helpful museum.
Newark Air Museum - lists exhibits
Last reported August 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEWBY WISKE-WATHSTONES FARM AIRFIELD, YORKS
Spotting Info
Head north out of village, over the stream and farm is on left just after a road on the left (Back Lane).
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEWCASTLE AIRPORT, TYNE & WEAR - TWR 119.7
Spotting Info
North of city on A696. The walkway over the Metro station at the terminal, and the footpath to the north of the terminal building leading to the long-term car provide views. As you exit the terminal, if you turn left you have limited views of the aircraft parked on the south side of the pier, as well as the south side general aviation ramp. If they're using 07 you can see them taxi out from here. Aircraft landing on 25 which go to the Samson facility on the opposite side of the airfield from the terminal can be read off but decent optics are needed. There is no shelter here, but there are bus shelters nearby and with the use of a radio, you need not get too wet. Head towards the Premier Inn on foot and adjacent is a bus stop and bridge below the base of the tower. From here you can view the hangars on the right, then carry on down the road to the first left turn and up the hill for views of the freight and overnight parking. Alternatively if you turn right you can see those parked on the north side of the pier, as well as the north ramp, which is normally used by the cargo operators, biz and charter flights. Depending on which runway is in use and where you stand you should not miss any arrivals or departures. If you're flying out, views airside are fantastic. On the south side, C-GWJO B732 is in a compound for use by the Newcastle Aviation Academy and easily viewed from this area. However it's very difficult to see from the terminal side, so you'll have to be on the right side of your flight if you're flying in or out. If you leave the terminal turn right and walk towards the long term car park - if you look back towards the end of the pier you can get a distant, nose on view through the southside buildings as long as aircraft don't block the view. Beyond the B732 is the cargo ramp which will be occupied if you're lucky. The Samson and flying club car park is pay and display so don't leave your vehicle. Be aware that the south side of the airport is policed and under a by-law you are officially not supposed to be over there, so don't stop for any length of time or, at best, you'll be moved on.
November Tango
For airport parking visit
or
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEWNHAM nr BALDOCK AIRFIELD, HERTS
Spotting Info
Exit A1(M) at J10, take A507 south towards Baldock and just after the services turn left onto Newnham Road. Once in Newnham, turn right onto Ashwell Road and turn right onto a farm track after 200m. Follow to end for strip.
Last reported December 2007. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEWQUAY AIRPORT, CORNWALL
Spotting Info
Northeast of Newquay off A3059. The civilian side of this airport, known as Newquay, has excellent viewing to the adjacent apron via an 8 foot chain link fence. You can visit the long-term car park as
long as you're quick. WL795 Shackleton is the gate guard at the former St. Mawgan air base part of the airport on the south side. Heading east on the A3059, as you head past the runway 30 approach lights, fork left as the road bends right. Here you'll find a private collection on display, containing BAPC-268 Spitfire replica marked "PL279" and WD954 Canberra nose.
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NEWTOWNARDS AIRFIELD, N. IRELAND - TWR 123.5
Spotting Info
Head southeast out of Newtownards town on the A20 and the airfield is on the right. Friendly, ask at reception for access to the hangar and apron, a hi-viz jacket is required. They may also drive you over to the hangars on the far side. If not, there's a separate entrance off the A21 on the west side of the airfield. Turn left out of the main entrance and follow the perimeter roads round the north and western boundaries. In this southwest corner you will need ID for access to those hangars.
Last reported September 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTH COATES AIRFIELD, LINCS - TWR 120.15
Spotting Info
Head east out of village towards the sea. After 2 miles turn right at T-junction and take next left for entrance.
North Coates Flying Club
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTH DENES HELIPORT, NORFOLK - A/G 123.4
Spotting Info
Just north of Great Yarmouth off A149. As you leave the town, you go past a golf course and you'll then be able to see into their hangars if they're open. You will see a narrow concrete track with roughly yellow painted poles with CHC Scotia on a notice. Turn down here and follow the track around the side of the airfield. As you go down this road anything on the small ramp can be read off. If you go right past the back of the hangars into a car park you can look back on to the apron. Head inside the terminal and if you ask politely at the check-in desk if any helicopters are due in they should let you know what is due in and when.
Last reported October 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTH HILL AIRFIELD, DEVON
Spotting Info
Easiest directions are from Dunkeswell. Head north or turn left from Dunkeswell and take the first left down an easy to miss narrow lane. At the end of this lane turn left and go through the village of Sheldon. At the end of the road turn left again and after about half a mile on the right is a lane sign posted to the gliding club. A couple of hangars with gliders and fixed wing aircraft, friendly place, ask for permission. If the individual hangar that hides the club Tug is locked, there is gap under the hangar door for you to view it.
Last reported July 2006. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTH LUFFENHAM STORED, RUTLAND
Spotting Info
Just north of North Luffenham village. XV804 Harrier is near the southern perimeter track. To see it, head south towards North Luffenham village from Edith Weston and it should come into view on your left. If not, continue straight on (not right into North Luffenham vilage) and turn left at the crossroads onto Butt Lane. The Harrier should come into view looking straight ahead and to the left. Or you can follow to the end where there is a gap in the trees. XP344 Whirlwind marked "8764M" is lying on its side dumped at the edge of the copse in the southern part of the base. From the taxiway the ground slopes down and can't be seen from the tarmac, so you need to go down the track and you'll see it in front of you. It supposedly can be seen from fields outside the base perimeter but I would like clarification on exactly where. XT905 Phantom is on the eastern part of the base and can be seen from the nearby track. Head west out of Ketton on Empingham Road and just before you get to the base, turn left at the crossroads and follow to the end. You'll need to go beyond the line of trees to see the Phantom, which appears to be on the base, but dog walkers frequent the base without hassle.
Last reported September 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTH MORETON-CHURCH FARM AIRFIELD, OXFORDS
Spotting Info
Strip is at north end of village to the east of the village and can be accessed by a track leading from the road that passes through the village. Owner cautious about visitors, you are advised to call prior to visiting.
Last reported . Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTH WEALD AIRFIELD, ESSEX - TWR 123.525
Spotting Info
Alongside the M11 and A414 the airfield is well signposted. If the barrier at the main gate is down just let them know you are visiting The Squadron and they'll let you in. Head left and follow the peri track all the way round - many buildings on the way round to the main area house aircraft, ask in each one for access though some will refuse access. On the western part of the airfield there are 3 hangars, the two larger hangars split in half with different companies owning the different halves and therefore they both have two sets of doors. None of the owners of these 3 hangars allowing you to park here so continue past and park by the stored N31356 DC4 & N44914 C54 and walk back. If the hangars are open you're welcome to look in and log from the entrance but access inside the hangar is not allowed and nor are photos. You can ask for access if anyone is in the hangar, but it will likely be denied. Follow the track round to the hangar in the northwest part of the airfield. You can park at this hangar and if it's open you can again log from the outside. The owners here tend to be friendlier and may or may not grant access. Driving down parallel to the old runway you'll pass a hangar just before the main car park. Ask in The Squadron clubhouse for access, which is usually granted but not to go in the hangars. You can then walk out to the left to log the residents parked outside tucked away round the corner. If access is denied, on the drive back you get an angle on these to read some off through binoculars.
North Weald
Last reported April 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTHOLT AIRPORT, GT LONDON - TWR 120.67, APP 130.35
Spotting Info
Head east along M40/A40, exit at the Polish War Memorial (first exit past airfield) and turn left at the roundabout. Only places to spot are from the main airport entrance on the A4180 West End Road, under the 25 approach on the same road (go to the middle of the long hedge and there is a wooden fence by some electrical boxes to look over) - only place you can see the eastern end of the ramp (best to park in the Texaco petrol station and walk up) and finally from the exit slip to the farm yard on the A40 (westbound only). Aircraft nearly always visit weekdays 0800-2000 unless on Government business and the airport is closed on Bank Holidays.
Northolt, Farnborough and Northolt Airport Email Group
Last reported July 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTHREPPS AIRFIELD, NORFOLK - A/G 129.825
Spotting Info
Alongside the A149 about a mile north of Thorpe Market village. If the weather is good, this can be a busy place, especially during their events and is a favourite with pilots. Very friendly airfield, ask for access.
Northrepps Aerodrome
Last reported December 2009. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORTON JUXTA TWYCROSS-COTTAGE FARM AIRFIELD, LEICS
Spotting Info
From the crossroads just west of Twycross Zoo on the A444 head north on Orton Lane into Norton Juxta Twycross village. After the sharp left right bends head straight on, ignoring the right turn, and turn left at the triangle junction onto Cottage Lane, just before a sharp right bend. Follow to the end for the strip, ask for access, they are friendly. Park in the courtyard and walk up the track, keeping the large barn on your left. The next building is 5 bay hangar, go past this to the clubhouse at the end and ask permission. Do not enter any hangars without permission. If no one is at the strip, the airfield owners, David and Jean Corbett, have asked that you ask at their house (on the right in the main yard before the hangars), and not to wander around unescorted. I have their contact details should you wish to arrange a visit.
Last reported February 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NORWICH AIRPORT (EGSH), NORFOLK - TWR 124.25, APP 119.35
Terminal and Cargo Area Spotting Info
In the north of Norwich city off the A140 and signposted. At the terminal there is a short-term car park (10 minutes free, £1 for 30 mins), however if you drive past the terminal and then turn the corner, there are a number of free parking spaces for 30 mins. This will allow you time to go into the terminal, where extensive views of the apron are possible, as well as the Sprayavia hangar. There is also a grassed area to the left of the terminal. Next, return to the A140, turn left and stay in the left lane to take the next left onto Fifers Lane, signposted Air Freight. At the next set of lights turn left signposted Air Freight and turning left again at the back of Sprayavia's hangar brings you out to views of the apron. You will be able to see most aircraft parked on the ramp, anything parked in front of the KLM hangars and any Bristow helicopters that aren't hidden.
A message from Special Branch at Norwich - they have asked for you all to be advised if seen filming or photographing in the vicinity of the fence outside Sprayavia you may be taken to the terminal for questioning, which will be in depth and last over an hour. If seen elsewhere around the airfield, you will not be taken to the terminal but you are likely to be questioned about your activities. This is purely procedure, they are happy for us to go about our hobby, and you will be allowed to continue after they have finished.
Watching Movements & Photography
From the freight area above, return to Fifers Lane and turn left. After a number of pedestrian lights and a roundabout, the road turns sharp right. Turn left here onto St. Faith's Road into a 20mph zone and continue until you reach a cemetery on the left. Park sensibly just beyond the cemetry, well clear of the crash gate. There are lay-bys and grass verges to use. Excellent views of the aircraft taking off and landing, just be wary of the security. Even if you are doing nothing wrong they have been known to cause problems.
West Side Flying Clubs
Exit the terminal via the main entrance traffic lights and turn right. Take the next right (ignoring the slip road to the car park) and this will take you to the various flying clubs GA area. Ask in each building for access - Sterling, Anglian and Norwich School of Flying are along here and are all very friendly. From here you get views across to the terminal apron, Sprayavia, KLM and Bristows.
Northern Storage Area & City of Norwich Aviation Museum
The main storage area is in the northwestern part of the airport, just west of the museum. Heading north on the A140 past the flying schools on the right, pull in to the large lay-by on the right for views of the storage area. For the City of Norwich Aviation Museum, continue north on the A140, straight over the roundabout (2nd exit) and take the first right. Then take the third right (at the second triangle junction) onto Old Norwich Road and follow to the end. Presumably it's also well signposted. Open 1000-1600 during the winter months, 1000-1700 in the summer, with Sundays and Bank Holidays 1100-1500 and 1200-1700 respectively. Entrance is £4.25. As you head towards the museum, keep looking left for N5880T WG-30 sat high on a mock helipad from an oil rig as a training aid. The museum has fine views over the airfield and the Aviation Centre has a first floor bar with views over the movements and main light aircraft park and hangar. The storage area can be seen best from the museum area.
Norwich EGSH Movements and Residents
For airport parking visit
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Last reported November 2010. Want to update or confirm the information is still correct? Send in a report
NOTTINGHAM EAST MIDLANDS AIRPORT, LEICS - TWR 124.0, APP 134.17
Terminal Area Spotting Info