Spitfire passenger flights to be available from aerodrome near Cheshire
People will soon be able to fly in a Spitfire from Hawarden Aerodrome this year.
The chance to soar above Wales, the Lake District, and the North West will be available for select days in May and September.
Spitfires.com will have the historic aircraft at the aerodrome from May 29 to May 31 and again from September 17 to September 19.
Subject to demand, Spitfires.com plans to have a plane stationed at Hawarden Aerodrome annually.
The Spitfire will be one of three TR9s operated by the company.
In the plane, a hand-picked pilot from Spitfires.com's flight crew will be in the front seat, with the paying passenger in the rear seat.
The passenger will have their own cockpit, equipped with a full set of instruments and flight controls.
A 1944 Spitfire Tr9, G-ILDA (SM520) (Image: Supplied) For those interested, there will even be an opportunity to take the controls and experience flying the legendary aircraft firsthand.
Matt Jones, the founder and managing director of Spitfires.com, said: "We're looking forward to offering Spitfire flights from Hawarden Aerodrome.
"With some of the most stunning scenery in Great Britain on its doorstep, we couldn't resist bringing one of our Spitfires here to offer passenger flights during such a significant anniversary year, both for our country and for our business.
"Taking off from Hawarden Aerodrome and heading towards the ruggedly beautiful Welsh coastline and heading on to sights such as Pontycyllte Aqueduct, Point of Aye Lighthouse and even Snowdonia promises to be truly mesmerizing.
"During the flights we offer, we will be able to take in the sights around the River Mersey and fly across North Wales and the Lake District and near to Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham, which promises to be incredibly special for local residents."
The company will be operating from Hawarden for the first time in 2025, which is the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and also the 10th anniversary of Spitfires.com offering these experiences to the public.
Scenic views from the iconic Spitfire will include the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Point of Ayr Lighthouse, Snowdonia, and the Welsh coastline.
Flights will depart from Aviation Park Group Ltd, a recognised centre for business aviation and engineering.
Bookings for this unique experience can be made online or by calling Spitfires.com HQ on 01243 531147.
Prices for the 30-minute flight start at £3,400.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
New wind farms' impact to be 'felt for generations'
New floating wind farms capable of powering millions of homes will have "a positive impact for generations to come," a minister has said. The UK government has announced the companies that will develop major new windfarms in the sea off the coast of Pembrokeshire and south-west England. The project will create thousands of jobs with the turbines, which could be up to 300m (984ft) tall and and sit on a football pitch-sized platform, capable of powering four million homes in the UK. Port Talbot and Bristol are the likely locations for the turbines, with the hope that they could be up and running within six years. Working with the Crown Estate, Equinor and Gwnyt Glas – a joint venture between EDF Renewables UK and ESB – will create several windfarms which are expected to be some of largest of their type in the world. The Crown Estate – which manages the seabed around England, Wales and Northern Ireland – is investing £400m in the UK's offshore wind supply chain. Welsh ports in running for floating wind farms The project could support the creation of 5,300 new jobs and deliver a £1.4bn boost to the UK economy. The companies said they were committed to ensuring that a minimum of 10% of employees aged 19-24 were not currently in education, employment or training. Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said the project was "hugely significant moment" for the clean energy industry. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said it would be "transformative" for economic growth in Wales and the south-west. He added: "Unlocking thousands of jobs in places like Port Talbot and Bristol, bolstering our energy security and delivering industrial renewal."
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Independent water commission chair denies probe into reforms is ‘tinkering'
The chair of the Independent Water Commission has defended his ongoing probe into the water sector reforms. Sir Jon Cunliffe addressed recent criticism that he has been 'tinkering' with the industry's deep-rooted issues as he was quizzed by MPs on Tuesday. The Independent Water Commission was tasked by the UK and Welsh governments to carry out the largest review of the sector since privatisation in the face of widespread public anger over pollution, bills and bosses' bonuses although ministers ruled out nationalising water companies. The final report is expected in mid-July but earlier this month, the commission published an interim report which said the industry needs a 'fundamental reset'. But this initial paper was criticised for not going far enough to deliver recommendations that would engender a complete industry overhaul. The Government outlined the scope of the probe to focus on what changes could be made within the current privatised regulated ownership model rather than considering a wholesale shift to other models such as not-for-profit or nationalisation. Giles Bristow, chief executive of Surfers Against Sewage, said the interim report was tinkering around the edges and he called for the commission's final recommendations to 'end pollution for profit' as well as 'reshape the water industry to put public health and environment first'. Asked by MPs if the review is 'tinkering' given the broken culture found across the sector, Sir Jon said: 'No I don't accept it at all. I just don't, I'm sorry. 'First of all, you wouldn't expect me to think, to accept, that this was a report that was tinkering. 'But just moving past that… I do not think the problems you see in the culture of the water companies that you've identified, and the problems we've seen in performance, are the inevitable consequence of the ownership model that we have.' Sir Jon continued to say the commission will look at other ownership models, such as not-for-profit, and make recommendations where companies are feasibly able to make a transition without public spending. Challenged on how he can assure MPs he will look at other models of ownership given the current failures, he said the commission could do so only in certain circumstances. 'But what we won't do is say: 'We need to move the whole sector to a different model' for two reasons,' he said. We've published our report on priorities for the water sector, calling on Sir Jon Cunliffe and the Water Commission not to shy away from 'root and branch' reforms. Read the report: — EFRA Committee (@CommonsEFRA) June 16, 2025 Sir Jon outlined that he is not sure how the sector can do this without large public spending to buy the assets but also that he has not found a 'strong correlation' between models and outcomes. 'It's not tinkering, it's trying to be evidence-based,' he said. His comments come after the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee released its own report into the sector on Tuesday morning, which concluded the industry is 'failing' while water firms are 'deaf to the crisis' it is facing. The MPs also argued the Government 'should feel able to use its temporary nationalisation powers' when needed. Sir Jon was also questioned about criticism that the review is not truly independent from the Government due to Environment Department staff helping to carry out the work. In response, he said: 'I'd like to put this on the record, if I can chair. 'I've been given a secretariat of high-quality Defra officials. 'I have not felt in any way that I am being channelled down any particular route outside of my terms of reference and I'd also say that they are incredibly hard-working, and they are in seeker after truth mode.' He added that while the commission has had to draw on some departmental expertise, the recommendations 'will be my own'.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Revealed: the UK's BEST sunrise and sunset spots
Whether you prefer sunrise to sunset, we can all agree both are considered two of Earth's most beautiful natural occurrences. Be it the warm glow, accompanied by a crisp morning freshness, or the golden blazing skies a sinking sun is about to leave behind, there's nothing quite like experiencing either, particularly in summer. Here, outdoor experts Blacks has analysed social media posts and hashtags to rank the best viewpoints in the UK to watch the sun rise or set. Read on to find out which of the UK's best sunrise and sunset nature spot is ranked number one... Set in the Peak District overlooking the Derbyshire countryside is Baslow Edge – an idyllic location where rugged terrain meets rolling hills and woodland. The route up there is relatively flat so it's ideal for kids as well as adults. While there are a few boulders to clamber over, keep your eyes peeled for Highland cows and as well as stunning views. It can be quite popular during the summer months, as people head to the top for sunrise. However, it's sunset most people want to be here for. Being less busy than its Peak District neighbours, Baslow Edge shows off sunset in a tranquil and atmospheric setting. The village of Baslow is worth a visit beforehand too, with a number of cosy pubs and cafés ready to welcome you. Catbells is one of the most welcoming of the Lake District peaks, and at 1,480 feet (451m) high, is certainly a popular fell for hiking. A round trip takes up to three hours, so you don't have to drag yourself out of bed quite as early as you might think. With the Cumbrian national park being one of the most beautiful places in the world, its appearance on a list of the best sunrises and sunsets shouldn't come as any surprise. If descending Catbells at night is more your cup of tea, you'll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sunsets of any mountain range in Britain. Epic panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells are worth a scramble at dusk, and why not combine it with a circular walk around the base, an exploration of the nearby caves and a picnic, beforehand. Love this? Follow our Facebook page for more travel inspiration Named best beach in Britain two years running by Tripadvisor and ninth best in the world, Rhossili Bay is also dubbed the 'supermodel of British Beaches' by newspaper The Independent. With quite a few accolades under its belt, the Welsh coast is certainly one of the most picturesque places to watch the sunrise. As well as enjoying the spectacular beach at Rhossili Bay, the island of Worms Head is a great place to see the sunset. Only accessible on foot, care must be taken to avoid being stranded during high tides. Despite the crystal blue waters, the area isn't without its sunken secrets. During low tides, it is possible to see some of the remains of Norwegian vessel Helvetia, shipwrecked in 1887. Another Peak District location popular with walkers and Instagrammers is Curbar Edge, above the village of Curbar. A major location for rock climbing, bouldering, and even hang gliding, it offers various trails with the most popular going via White and Froggatt Edge, offering stunning views of the Derwent Valley below. The route can become quite busy during the day, so it's another good reason to go early and see the sun coming up. As well as outdoor activities, Curbar Edge combines nature and geological interest and is rich in wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for kestrels and wild grouse. The stunning heather-covered moorland is popular all year round thanks to its ever-changing seasonal landscapes. The colours when the sun is going down are beautiful, therefore it's no wonder this has become one of the UK's favourite sunset destinations. This pretty bay is located just a couple of miles from Newquay, the UK's top surfing destination. Witness the sunrise before partaking in Watergate Bay's many activities. As well as traditional surfing and kite surfing, there are rock pools to explore, golden sand to bathe on and lots of tasty food options. Nearby, there's also Blue Reef Aquarium and Newquay Zoo – home to 130 of the world's most rare and endangered animals. Sunset at Watergate Bay is something special too. Come for the beach days, gourmet cuisine, coastal walks and surfing, and stay for the sun's spectacular finale. As the sun kisses the horizon, you'll be blessed with wonderful views of the rugged North Cornish coast. The third Peak District entry on this list is an iconic beauty spot. With a backdrop and rock plinth to rival the sunrise from a Disney film, Bamford Edge at dawn provides the most atmospheric of settings for your Instagram selfie. You can even take a boat onto the reservoir for a spot of fishing once the sun comes up. The beautiful village of Bamford itself has plenty going on – art events, sheepdog trials, plus award-winning pubs. Even at dusk, we recommend completing the full circular walk on Bamford Edge – a five mile (8km) trek which includes the famous Bamford Stepping Stones and views over the Ladybower Reservoir. Take plenty of photos but remember to keep some phone charge to snap a sunset you'll never forget. Perranporth Beach and its diverse scenery of rolling sand dunes and towering cliffs are reason enough to visit. However, combine it with watching these natural daily spectacles and it's no wonder this beauty spot ranks in the top four. Start the day with an epic sunrise and don't worry about the crowds; the beach is so vast you'll feel like you have it all to yourself. There's plenty to do on Perranporth Beach after sunrise. Snorkelling, surfing, seaside walks, swimming and splashing are of course what you'd expect. For the more daring, there's even skydiving. A walk up to Ligger Point is recommended too, if the tide is out. After all that fun, you can relax, have a drink (there's a bar) and gaze at the sun setting on the Atlantic horizon. An unspoilt coastline with many experiences for all the family, Sanbanks offers windsurfing, play areas, nature walks, island explorations and water sports. If you fancy a bit of history, Corfe Castle, nearby, is also worth a visit. Of course, come early in the morning to witness the sensational sunrise and you can make a full day of it. Watching the sun disappear from golden beaches and crystal clear waters is enchanting in itself. And while that's often reserved for paradisial islands such as in the Caribbean, the south coast of England has a pretty good go too. Sunset views across Poole Harbour – the second biggest natural harbour in the world – are simply stunning. Mam Tor, or 'Mother Hill', is a fell at the edge of the Peak District and is the national park's winner when it comes to top sunrise and sunset spots. It also signals the start of the Pennine Way, and on a clear day you can see right over the 'backbone of England' all the way to Manchester. A relatively easy ridge walk, at just 1,696 feet (517m), the summit can be reached in as little as an hour. If you fancy waking up at an ungodly hour, the sunrise is well worth it. The other misty ridges of the Peak District add an extra mystique to the breaking morning spectacle. Nicknamed the 'Shivering Mountain' due to the frequent landslides on its steep eastern face, Mam Tor provides great views of the famous Winnats Pass – a dry gorge made up of limestone. A spectacular favourite for photographers, when the sun is setting, even amateurs can take incredible snaps. Wales' highest mountain, and one of the most beautiful walks in Britain, Snowdon should definitely be on your sunrise or sunset bucket list. There's the cheat option of course: taking the train, which if your main purpose is to witness the view only, is understandable. We're sure you'll feel a sense of achievement should you hike it though, and the sunset or sunrise is a fitting reward. There are six tracks up, with the Llanberis considered the easiest yet longest. While climbing Snowdon for the sunrise is popular (certainly to see the New Year in), for those who favour a more nocturnal descent, sunset is the one. Extra care should be taken of course, Snowdon can be a difficult climb at any time of day, but especially in the dark. Whether you decide to start the day here, or end it, it's pretty obvious why Snowdon is ranked the UK's number one natural beauty spot to see our daily spectacles in all their glory.
