RNAS Culdrose Viewing Area
A dedicated viewing area for aviation enthusiasts to watch naval helicopters and jets at RNAS Culdrose. Offers parking and accessibility.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Warmer weather for picnics
RNAS Culdrose Viewing Area
Best Time
Warmer weather for picnics
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dedicated viewing area for aviation enthusiasts to watch naval helicopters and jets at RNAS Culdrose. Offers parking and accessibility.
"Brilliant place to watch the hawks and merlins taking off and landing. Kids really enjoyed going."
Bring Your Own Refreshments 🍎
The cafe is closed, so pack food and drinks. An ice cream van sometimes visits.
Check Toilet Availability 🚻
Toilets may be closed. Plan ahead and use facilities before you arrive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Helicopter & Jet Spotting
Viewing Area
Witness Hawks and Merlins taking off and landing. A thrill for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
Quiet Getaway
Viewing Area
Enjoy a peaceful escape with ample parking. Wheelchair and pram friendly for a relaxed visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack Smart for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Refreshments 🍎
The cafe is closed, so pack food and drinks. An ice cream van sometimes visits.
Check Toilet Availability 🚻
Toilets may be closed. Plan ahead and use facilities before you arrive.
Patience for Activity ✈️
Activity varies; be prepared to wait to see helicopters or jets.
Wheelchair & Pram Friendly 👍
The viewing area offers easy access for all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Refreshments 🍎
The cafe is closed, so pack food and drinks. An ice cream van sometimes visits.
Check Toilet Availability 🚻
Toilets may be closed. Plan ahead and use facilities before you arrive.
Patience for Activity ✈️
Activity varies; be prepared to wait to see helicopters or jets.
Wheelchair & Pram Friendly 👍
The viewing area offers easy access for all visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the RNAS Culdrose Viewing Area a good spot for aviation enthusiasts, offering a chance to see helicopters and jets. While it's a nice quiet getaway with ample parking and good accessibility, some miss the former cafe and shop. Activity levels can vary, so patience is key to catching the action.
"Ample size car park to sit and watch the helicopters for any aviation fan. Visited whilst in the area. Luckily saw 2 arrive."
Louise Chapman
"Use to be very good coming here to watch the sea kings in action, obviously they no longer fly. The base does not seem to be as active as it use to be years ago. But none of the less still a nice place to visit."
Leon Taylor
"We had a nice little quiet getaway here.
Seen a few things happening just a pity the Café has gone.
But I'd love too come back here in the Summer with a packed launch and watch all that goes on.
Plenty of parking space and Wheelchair and Pram Friendly. 👍"
Mark Lenderyou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The viewing area is accessible by car with ample parking available. It's located near Helston, Cornwall. Specific directions can be found using GPS or mapping services.
Information on public transport options is limited. It's best to check local bus routes serving the Helston area, though a car is generally recommended for ease of access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the viewing area is free. It's an open space for observing the naval airbase.
The viewing area does not have set opening hours as it's an outdoor public space. However, activity on the base is subject to operational schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can watch various naval aircraft, including helicopters like Merlins and potentially jets, taking off and landing.
Yes, children often enjoy watching the aircraft. It's a great spot for young aviation enthusiasts.
Unfortunately, the cafe and shop are closed, and toilets may be inaccessible. It's advised to bring your own food and drinks and use facilities beforehand.
Yes, the viewing area is described as wheelchair and pram friendly, offering good accessibility.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are when aircraft are actively taking off or landing. This can be unpredictable, so patience is key.
Generally, photography of aircraft in flight or on the ground from the public viewing area is permitted. However, always be mindful of any base security notices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks as facilities are limited. An ice cream van sometimes visits, which can be a nice treat. While the toilets might be closed, planning ahead ensures a smooth visit. It's a great way to introduce children to military aviation in a relaxed, open environment.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
It's worth noting that the base may not be as active as in previous years, but the opportunity to see operational aircraft is still a major draw. Bring your camera with a good zoom lens to capture the action, and be prepared for varying levels of activity. This is a prime spot for spotting military aircraft in a real-world operational setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding RNAS Culdrose
While the dedicated visitor facilities like the cafe and shop have closed, the viewing area remains a popular spot for aviation enthusiasts. It offers a direct, albeit sometimes distant, view of the active flight line. The experience is best when the base is busy with aircraft movements, which can vary daily.
Visitors should be aware that the base's activity is dictated by operational needs. This means there might be periods of quiet followed by intense activity. The viewing area provides a unique opportunity to witness naval aviation firsthand, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in military aircraft.
Maximizing Your Viewing Experience
Patience is a virtue here. You might see a flurry of activity or have to wait a while for the next aircraft to take off or land. Some visitors have noted that the base doesn't seem as active as it once was, but catching the Hawks and Merlins in action is still a highlight.
For photographers, long lenses are recommended to capture clear shots of the aircraft. Remember to check the weather and dress accordingly, as you'll likely be outdoors for an extended period. The accessibility for wheelchairs and prams is a plus, making it an inclusive spot for families.
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