North Yorkshire Water Park is taking the glamping trend to new heights this season with the launch of two truly unique stays: real, converted RAF Sea King helicopters.
Opening on Friday 1st May, the park has transformed two legendary aircraft, ZE369 and XZ589, into luxury pods. Both helicopters served decades of daring search-and-rescue missions across the UK before being retired and meticulously refitted for guests.
The conversions have been designed to balance adventure with comfort. Each pod features a double bed with a portal window looking into the tail, plus a set of bunk beds for children. The original cockpit has been cleverly reimagined as a dining area, where guests can sit among the real controls and switches. Modern essentials like a microwave, toaster, kettle, and fridge are all included, and guests can even use the original winch operator’s sliding door to step out onto a private “gravel landing pad” complete with a picnic bench.
Gareth Davies, General Manager at North Yorkshire Water Park, noted that the helicopters offer a distinctive alternative for families and couples looking for a memorable short break. The stays are located alongside the park’s existing camping pods and Lake View Lodge, providing easy access to on-site activities like the Aqua Parks, archery, and ziplining.
With only two helicopters available, demand is expected to be exceptionally high. Prices for a stay in these iconic pieces of aviation history start from £130 per night. For more information or to secure a booking, visit www.northyorkshirewaterpark.co.uk/helicopter-glamping/.
