A fantastic day out.

Back in early June, my wife and myself had booked a week in the Peak District, which was to include my Christmas present - of a 30 minute helicopter tour of the Dam-busters training flight route, which would include flying over Chatsworth House. Sadly the weather was to intervene, and the anticipated flight was cancelled/ postponed. However, the Peak District was not a disappointment and a lovely week ensued. Forward to Saturday 1st August, with the previous 'WEEK' now compressed to a 'DAY'. We set out from Reading to the Peak District via the MI in glorious weather; with the three and a half hour drive to the north proving a remarkably easy doddle, especially as my wife was doing the driving. Arriving at the destination field, it was wonderful to have a pub just across the road, and a lovely lunch was enjoyed. After walking our dog, we joined the melee in the smallish enclosure, housing hopeful fliers with their accompanying family and friends. Out of this rather chaotic yet friendly get-together, the necessary checks and balances (weighing scales) were efficiently organised, even over the din of the nearby helicopter(s). The flight itself was absolutely amazing, highlighting the beauty of this part of our nation. On the negative side, although I did see Ladybower Reservoir, I missed seeing 'the dam' which I had visited by car back in June. Depending on your position in the helicopter, different views were obviously experienced, especially if you had forward or backward facing seats. I also missed seeing Chatsworth house, even though I was looking for it. A couple of things appeared to be missing from making a wonderful experience, truly exceptional. One, was the lack of a commentary, pre-flight about the aviation history of May 1943 (as promised in the ‘Red Letter Days’ pack); and secondly, of a further ‘in-flight’ commentary to identify where we actually were, and which window to look out of to see the various landmarks/places of interest. That said, safety is of paramount consideration, and with only one pilot, getting back safely, is unquestionably of primary importance - so the long safety record can continue to be rightly boasted and protected. The return journey to Reading was equally easy, and my wife and myself were able to look back on a day which was a real blessing. Thank you so much!

Incredible family experience!

We flew today as a family of four. The pilot Neil, was really friendly which helped with nerves! The flight was superb and Neil pointed out all the landmarks so we got the best experience with brilliant photos to show our adventures. We even flew over our house! A brilliant experience from start to finish and we would definitely do it again.

Great experience

It was great. Well organised and the sparkling cream tea was good. The volunteers were all very helpful and jolly. The only disappointment was that due to the weather the train was pulled by a diesel engine and not a steam one.

A fantastic experience all round.

Thank you we had a great time. The team were very welcoming and the whole experience was brilliantly managed.

Fabulous flight!

Well organised, friendly and professional service. We loved our flight and felt very comfortable with Neil our pilot. We enjoyed excellent views over StIves and up to Portreath. All in all a wonderful experience that we would love to do again. Thank you.

Enjoyable trip

Our experience was good fun. I would suggest combining it with other activities in the Blaenavon Heritage area.