I’ve discovered the best day trip to see the Northern Lights from London
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that is at the top of most people’s wish lists.
Watching the colorful lights swirl and dance in the night sky can seem like a magical experience that people look forward to during the winter months.
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However, as the name suggests, the Northern Lights only appear in the north, meaning those south of a certain point have much fewer opportunities to see them.
The Scandinavian countries offer people the best chances of seeing the lights, but there are also ways to see them without having to book a vacation.
Special flights can be booked from the UK to take passengers north on planes and allow them to see the lights from the air.
The day trips include lectures and presentations by astronomers, and expert commentary is also provided during the flight.
After takeoff, all lights in the aircraft cabins are turned off so that the passengers’ eyes can get used to seeing the northern lights as best as possible.
They are much more likely to do this if they reach darker skies, away from light pollution in cities and towns.
The plane then flies back and forth so that passengers on either side can see the Northern Lights flickering outside their windows as they appear before returning to the airport.
At the end of the observation period, the cabin lights will be turned back on and light refreshments will be served.
Previous passengers raved about their experience, with some even describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
One wrote: “The Northern Lights flight was outstanding.”
“I flew over Shetland and saw an incredible display of stars. Then I saw the northern lights. The flight time was around 3.5 hours and it was a unique experience that was very well received.”
“Overall brilliant. The tour guides were outstanding and the presenters were fabulous. I can highly recommend it.”
The tours are organized by Omega fractionswhich are offering the trips again this year on selected dates between November and March.
The journey is possible from both London Gatwick and Stansted, but other flights are also available.
Trips also depart from Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Bradford and Newcastle.
The company describes its flights as the “most cost-effective” way to see the Northern Lights and that it is also one of the best ways to stargaze.
Their website states: “For over 20 years, Omega Breaks has been taking passengers on their flight excursions in search of the Aurora Borealis, or more commonly known as the Northern Lights.”
“Our air tours are perhaps the easiest and most cost-effective way to see this natural phenomenon.
“Apart from the light pollution, this is perhaps the most vivid you will ever see of the better-known constellations.”
The full day, including expert talks, flights, food and refreshments, costs £269 per person.
Meanwhile, you can watch the Northern Lights in a glass igloo at the North Pole.
And Jet2 is offering Northern Lights trips to Iceland in 2024.
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