I’ve discovered the best day trip to see the Northern Lights from London
THE NORTHERN lights is a natural phenomenon that features high on most people’s bucket lists.
Seeing the colourful lights swirling and dancing across the night sky can seem like a magical experience and one that people get excited about in the winter months.
However, as the name suggests, the aurora only appears in the north, meaning those south of a certain point have far fewer opportunities to see it.
Scandinavian countries offer the best chances for people to see the lights, but there are ways you can see them, without having to book a holiday.
Special flights can be booked from the UK that take passengers north on planes, allowing people to see the lights from the air.
The day trips include talks and presentations from astronomers, while expert commentary is also provided during the flight as well.
After take off, all lights are turned off in the plane cabins, allowing passengers’ eyes the chance to adjust to give them the best chance to spot the aurora.
They’re much more likely to do that once they reach darker skies away from the light pollution of cities and towns.
The plane then flies back and forth allowing passengers on both sides to see the aurora flickering away outside their windows, if it shows up, before returning to the airport.
After the observation time has finished, cabin lights are switched back on and light refreshments are served.
Previous passengers have raved about their experiences, with some even labelling it a “once in a lifetime experience”.
One wrote: “Northern Lights flight was outstanding.
“Flew up over Shetland and star show was incredible. Then saw the aurora. Had about 3.5 hours flying time and it was a once in a lifetime experience that was very well received.
“Overall brilliant. Tour guides were superb and presenters fab. Would highly recommend.”
The tours are arranged by Omega Breaks, who are offering the trips again this year on selected dates between November and March.
The trip are available from both London Gatwick and Stansted, but there are other flights available too.
Excursions also depart from Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, and Newcastle.
The company describes their flights as the “most affordable” way to see the aurora and that it’s one of the best ways to go stargazing too.
Their website reads: “For over 20 years Omega Breaks has been taking passengers on their flight excursions in search of the Aurora Borealis, or as it’s more commonly known, the Northern Lights.
“Our flight excursions are perhaps the easiest and most affordable way to see this natural phenomenon.
“Away from light pollution, this is perhaps the most vibrant you will ever see some of the more famous constellations.”
The full day, including expert presentations, flights, food and refreshments costs £269pp.
Meanwhile, you can see the northern lights in a glass igloo at the North Pole.
And Jet2 has northern lights trips to Iceland in 2024.