You Can Glamp In A Decommissioned Navy Helicopter In Scotland
Kristen Amiet is a previous AWOL editor, bona fide travel…
Helicopter rides are awesome, though not particularly restful. Guests at this unique Scottish accommodation, however, are all-but guaranteed relaxation when they glamp inside a converted naval helicopter.
Part of a range of accommodation options at Mains Farm, Helicopter Glamping has been dubbed one of Scotland’s most-unusual places to stay.
The exterior of the decommissioned Royal Navy ZA127 Sea King ‘copter (to be specific) has been spruced up but largely untouched, while the interior is a literal shell of its former self.
With space for a family of five, it boasts classic décor, a stainless steel kitchenette, and panoramic views over the Carse of Stirling, picturesque agricultural land west of the town from which it takes its name. There’s also a bed in the tail, while an intimate seating area occupies what was once the cockpit.
The chopper was purchased at auction for $11,500 (£7000) in 2016 and lovingly restored over a number of months. Owners replaced old rotor blades with originals found on eBay, while the original signage and lighting was preserved during an extensive paint job. Her bulky sonar station was donated to a helicopter museum in Weston-super-Mare to make way for bathroom facilities.
One-night stays in the Sea King start from $245 (£150) for two adults, while children can stay for an additional $15 (£10) each. It’s worth noting that while it’s a pretty impressive set-up, you will need to bring your own towels.
For more information or to book, visit the website.
How To Get There
- Take the tram towards York Place to Edinburgh Park Station (6 stops)
- Take the Dunblane line to Stirling (6 stops)
- Take the C11 service to Kippen Road
- Walk 320m via Main Street
- Mains Farm Wigwams, Thornhill, Stirling
(All images: Helicopter Glamping)
Kristen Amiet is a previous AWOL editor, bona fide travel addict, sometimes whisky drinker and full-time breakfast food enthusiast.