Imagine soaring high above Cornwall’s rugged coastline, feeling the wind in your hair and capturing breathtaking photos of one of the world’s most beautiful bays. That’s exactly what a Cornwall Helicopter Pleasure Flight offers—an opportunity to see the stunning scenery from a perspective few travelers get to enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an unforgettable adventure, this short helicopter ride combines excitement with incredible views.
We like that this experience offers panoramic vistas from 1,000 feet above the ground—a perfect sweet spot for picture-taking without the feeling of being too high up. Plus, the pilot’s commentary adds an educational touch, helping you identify local landmarks. However, it’s worth noting that the flight is relatively brief, so if you’re craving a longer aerial adventure, this might feel like just a glimpse rather than a full-day exploration. Still, for those who love stunning scenery and want a taste of helicopter flying, this experience hits the mark.
This tour is best suited for those who appreciate authentic, scenic experiences and are comfortable with small-group settings. It’s ideal if you want a memorable highlight during your trip to Cornwall, especially around St Ives. Keep in mind that it’s not suitable for children under 5 or for anyone over 209 lbs (95 kg), which is standard for helicopter rides for safety reasons. Overall, it offers a value-packed way to see Cornwall from a fresh vantage point.
Key Points
- Stunning Coastal Views: The flight provides spectacular sights of Cornwall’s coastline and St Ives Bay.
- Expert Pilot Commentary: Your pilot points out landmarks, adding context and educational value to the experience.
- Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture memorable images from an impressive altitude.
- Short but Sweet: The experience lasts long enough to thrill without overstaying—ideal for a quick adventure.
- Accessible and Convenient: Located at Churchtown Farm, with free parking and a viewing area.
- Small Group Feel: Limited to four participants, making for a more personal and relaxed ride.
An In-Depth Look at the Helicopter Pleasure Flight
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Ives.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
This helicopter experience is centered around a scenic flight over St Ives Bay, famed for being one of the most beautiful bays globally. The meeting point at Churchtown Farm, Towednack in St Ives is accessible, with easy-to-find directions, including what3words coordinates, ensuring you start your adventure hassle-free.
Once onboard, you’ll begin with a safety briefing—a simple but essential step to ensure everyone feels comfortable. The helicopter used is jet-powered, which means a smooth, powerful ride that can quickly lift you into the air. The flight duration isn’t specified explicitly, but reviews suggest it’s a short pleasure ride, perfect for a quick burst of adrenaline and scenic enjoyment.
The pilot will then hover just a few feet above the ground, giving you a sense of the helicopter’s agility and the thrill of the experience. Soon after, you’ll accelerate and climb to 1,000 feet, where the views unfold in all directions. Expect to see landmarks like St Ives, the Tate St Ives Gallery, and the surrounding countryside, with the pilot pointing out notable sights.
What Makes the Experience Special
- Breathtaking Views: From the wide-open cockpit, you’ll see rugged coastlines, harbors, and the sandy beaches of Porthmeor and Porthminster. Given Cornwall’s reputation for natural beauty, the scenery from the air is truly remarkable.
- Photographic Opportunities: Whether you’re snapping shots of the lighthouse, the harbor, or the rolling countryside, you’ll find plenty of angles for Instagram-worthy photos. The experience encourages spectators to take photos during the flight, adding to the fun.
- Educational Element: The pilot’s commentary enriches the ride, helping you identify landmarks and gain some interesting insights into Cornwall’s geography and history.
What Previous Travelers Say
One reviewer highlights the spectacular scenery as their favorite part, describing the views as “breathtaking” and “worth every penny.” Another notes the small group size made the experience more personal and relaxed, allowing for plenty of photo opportunities and questions for the pilot.
Some cautioned that the flight is brief, so don’t expect a long aerial tour—this is more of a highlight reel than a full sightseeing extravaganza. However, given the value for the price, many feel it’s a memorable way to see Cornwall’s coastline with good value.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Practical Side: Pricing, Duration, and Booking
The tour is available from a single day, with check-in times depending on availability. It includes safety briefings, pilot commentary, and insurance, so you can relax and enjoy the flight. The cost is considered reasonable for a private helicopter experience in a stunning location, especially since it’s a small group limited to four participants, ensuring more personal attention.
Booking is straightforward through their 24/7 online platform, with options to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility for trip planning. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is a plus should your plans change.
Accessibility and Restrictions
This experience does not accommodate luggage or large bags, and bare feet are not allowed—standard safety precautions for helicopter rides. It’s not suitable for children under 5 years or those over 95 kg (209 lbs), which is common for helicopter safety regulations.
Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
If you’re seeking a unique perspective on Cornwall’s stunning coastline, this helicopter pleasure flight offers a thrilling and photogenic experience. It’s particularly appealing for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting to add a little adventure to their trip.
The short duration makes it a perfect add-on rather than a full-day commitment, and the limited group size ensures a more intimate experience. The cost reflects the exclusivity and the spectacular views, making it a good value for those wanting a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime perspective.
The Sum Up
This helicopter tour from St Ives provides a blend of excitement, scenic beauty, and educational commentary that’s hard to beat for a quick, impactful experience. Its stunning views of Cornwall’s coastline, combined with the personalized small-group setting and easy booking, make it a compelling option for travelers looking to elevate their trip.
While it’s not a lengthy tour, the visual payoff is impressive and well worth the price for those who love photography, natural beauty, and adventure. If you want to see Cornwall from a completely different angle, this pleasure flight is a practical and memorable choice.
This experience is particularly suited for adventurers, scenic seekers, and those celebrating special moments—a perfect way to make your Cornwall visit truly unforgettable.
FAQ
How long does the helicopter flight last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but reviews suggest it’s a short pleasure ride, probably around 10 to 15 minutes, giving plenty of time for breathtaking views without overstaying.
Where does the experience start?
It begins at Churchtown Farm, Towednack, St Ives, with clear directions provided. The exact location can be pinpointed using the what3words code ///ticket.work.hairspray.
Are spectators allowed to watch or photograph the flight?
Yes, spectators are welcome and can take photographs from the viewing area, making it a great event to share with friends and family.
Is the experience suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 5 years old. Always check with the provider if you have concerns about young children, as safety regulations apply.
What about weight restrictions?
Participants should not weigh over 209 lbs (95 kg). This is standard for helicopter safety and comfort.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning your trip.
In all, the Cornwall Helicopter Pleasure Flight offers an accessible, exhilarating way to see Cornwall’s coast from above—a true highlight for anyone craving stunning scenery and a dash of adventure during their visit.
You can check availability for your dates here: