Near Helston, TR12 7RH
Tel: (01326) 565085
Web: www.royalnavy.mod.uk/culdrose
See a busy helicopter air base at work.
Visit the viewing enclosure at RNAS Culdrose to see the largest helicopter base in Europe at work. With free parking, a gift shop and a cafe on site, you can have a relaxing time just sitting and watching some of the many types of helicopters and fixed wing aircraft that daily fly in and out of this huge Royal Naval Air Station every day.
RNAS Culdrose (also known as HMS Seahawk) which opened in 1947 covers over 1500 acres (including the satellite airfield Predannack on the Lizard Peninsula) and employs in excess of 3000 service personnel. It also provides 365 days-a-year, 24 hours a day military and civilian search and rescue cover for the whole South West of England and 200 miles out into the Western Approaches.
The enclosure is open from Easter to October, and a warm welcome awaits all visitors.
Once a year in July we open our gates to the public for the Culdrose Air Day, so come along and get 'up close and personal' with the sights, sounds and smells of a working military Air Station.
The enclosure is located on the south-east side of the Culdrose airfield. To get there, follow the RNAS Culdrose signs from Helston. The enclosure is located just off the Gweek road, which is signposted.
On the 21st March 1974 a Sea King helicopter from RNAS Culdrose came down near the top of a cliff on the Lizard and burst into flames, killing all four on board.
Prince Andrew's helicopter flying training was conducted at RNAS Culdrose, where he initially learnt to fly the Gazelle helicopter in 705 Naval Air Squadron. In April 1981 he was presented with his 'Wings' and the award for the best pilot by The Duke of Edinburgh.
In January 2016 771 Squadron at RNAS Culdrose hands the search and rescue service over to Bristow Helicopters at Newquay.
One mile south-east of Helston.
Opening TimesApril to October: Monday to Friday: 10.00am to 4.00pm Admission Free |
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