How to Tour Shoreham Airport

Shoreham Airport, also known as Brighton City Airport, is one of the UKs oldest continuously operating airfields, with a rich history dating back to 1910. Nestled on the south coast of England, just a few miles west of Brighton, it offers a unique blend of aviation heritage, scenic coastal views, and intimate access to general aviation operations. Unlike major international hubs, Shoreham Airport provides a rare opportunity for the public to experience the authentic atmosphere of a working regional airportwithout the crowds, long security lines, or commercial noise. Whether youre an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, a photographer, or simply curious about how small-scale air travel functions, touring Shoreham Airport can be a deeply rewarding experience. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to plan, execute, and maximize your visit, ensuring a safe, informative, and memorable outing.

The importance of touring Shoreham Airport extends beyond mere curiosity. It fosters public appreciation for regional aviation, supports local businesses and flight schools, and preserves the legacy of an airfield that played vital roles during both World Wars. By understanding how to navigate the airport respectfully and efficiently, visitors contribute to its sustainability and continued operation. This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your tour is not only possible but exceptional.

Step-by-Step Guide

Touring Shoreham Airport requires planning, awareness, and adherence to operational protocols. Unlike large commercial airports, Shoreham operates with limited staff and no dedicated public tour desk. However, this also means the experience is more personal and authentic. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a seamless visit.

Step 1: Verify Opening Hours and Operational Status

Shoreham Airport is not open 24/7 for public access. The airfield operates primarily during daylight hours, with most activities concentrated between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. However, operations can vary due to weather, air traffic control restrictions, or private events. Before planning your visit, check the official Shoreham Airport website for real-time updates. Look for notices regarding air shows, fly-ins, or maintenance closures that may affect public access.

Its also wise to confirm whether the airports visitor center or cafe is open. The Shoreham Airport Cafe, located near the terminal building, often serves as a de facto information hub and is typically staffed during operational hours. If you plan to visit outside of standard hours, consider calling ahead using the publicly listed contact number on their website to avoid disappointment.

Step 2: Plan Your Route and Transportation

Shoreham Airport is located at Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, with the full address: Shoreham Airport, Shoreham-by-Sea, BN43 5GA. The most convenient way to reach the airport is by car, as public transport options are limited. If driving, use GPS navigation to set your destination as Shoreham Airport Terminal rather than just Shoreham Airport, as the terminal is the only publicly accessible point.

There is free on-site parking available directly outside the terminal building. Spaces are plentiful, but during popular events such as the Shoreham Airshow, parking fills quickly. Arrive early if visiting on a weekend or during a scheduled event. For those relying on public transport, the nearest train station is Shoreham-by-Sea Station, approximately 1.2 miles away. From there, a 2025 minute walk or a short taxi ride is required. Bus routes 70 and 70A from Brighton stop near the airport entrance, but schedules are infrequentcheck local timetables in advance.

Step 3: Arrive at the Terminal and Register Your Visit

Upon arrival, park in the designated visitor parking area. Walk toward the main terminal building, which houses the cafe, flight school offices, and administrative areas. There is no formal check-in desk, but a friendly staff member or volunteer is often present during business hours. Approach them politely and state your intention to tour the airport. While no formal registration is mandatory for casual visitors, informing staff enhances safety and allows them to alert you to any active operations, such as aircraft movements or training flights.

For groups larger than four people, or for educational or media visits, it is strongly recommended to contact the airport in advance via email or phone. This allows them to assign a guide, schedule a briefing, or coordinate access to restricted areas such as the control tower viewing platform (when available).

Step 4: Explore the Terminal and Public Areas

The terminal building is modest but rich in character. Inside, youll find vintage aviation posters, historical photographs of early flyers, and displays of aircraft models. The cafe offers light refreshments and is an ideal spot to rest and observe aircraft activity through large windows overlooking the runway.

From the terminal, you can walk along designated public pathways that lead to the perimeter fence, offering unobstructed views of the active runway. Never attempt to cross security fencing or enter restricted zones. The airport is a working airfield, and unauthorized access to operational areas is both dangerous and illegal.

Take time to observe the types of aircraft using the airfield. Shoreham is home to a mix of vintage propeller planes, modern light aircraft, flight training schools, and private owners. You may see classic aircraft such as the de Havilland Tiger Moth, Cessna 172s, or even a restored Supermarine Spitfire during special events.

Step 5: Observe Aircraft Movements and Learn from the Environment

One of the most engaging aspects of touring Shoreham is watching takeoffs and landings. The runway is relatively short (850 meters), which means aircraft operate at lower speeds and are highly visible during critical phases of flight. This makes it an excellent location for learning about aviation principles in real time.

Listen to the radio chatter if you have a handheld aviation scanner (see Tools and Resources section). Youll hear pilots communicating with the airports non-controlled air traffic advisory frequency (126.7 MHz). While not mandatory, understanding basic radio callssuch as Shoreham Traffic, Cessna G-ABCD, downwind for runway 24helps you anticipate aircraft movements and enhances your experience.

Pay attention to wind direction indicators, typically a large wind sock near the runway threshold. The direction the sock points indicates wind direction, which determines which runway is in use. Pilots always take off and land into the wind for safety and efficiency. Observing this pattern helps you understand how weather influences flight operations.

Step 6: Visit the Aviation Heritage Displays

Shoreham Airport has a small but curated aviation heritage section, often maintained by local volunteers. Look for plaques and exhibits detailing the airports role in World War II as a fighter base for the Royal Air Force, and its transition into a civilian airfield in the post-war era. You may also find information about famous aviators who trained or flew from Shoreham, including early female pilots and record-breakers.

Some displays include original equipment such as vintage radios, navigation tools, and pilot uniforms. These artifacts offer tangible connections to aviations past. If a volunteer is present, dont hesitate to ask questionsthey are often passionate historians eager to share stories.

Step 7: Engage with the Community

Shoreham Airport thrives on community involvement. Many of the aircraft on the field belong to private owners or local flying clubs. If you see someone near their aircraft, especially during weekends or sunny afternoons, its perfectly acceptable to approach politely and ask if you can view the plane. Most pilots are happy to show off their aircraft, explain its history, or even discuss flight training.

Joining the Shoreham Aero Club is an excellent way to deepen your engagement. Membership offers access to flight lessons, social events, and exclusive tours. Even non-members are often welcome to attend public events such as Family Flying Days or Open Cockpit Weekends, where children and adults can sit in the cockpit of historic aircraft.

Step 8: Respect Operational Boundaries and Safety Protocols

While Shoreham is welcoming, it remains an active airfield. Always remain behind marked barriers. Never walk on the runway, taxiways, or apron areas. Aircraft may move without warning, even when engines appear off. Noise levels can be sudden and intensekeep children close and avoid loud conversations near active zones.

Do not attempt to take photographs from within restricted zones or use drones. Drone use is strictly prohibited within the airports controlled airspace without prior written authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the airport operator. Violations can result in legal penalties and endanger lives.

Step 9: Document Your Visit and Share Responsibly

Take photos, record audio, or journal your experiencebut always ethically. Avoid posting real-time updates that could inadvertently reveal aircraft positions or flight patterns that might be exploited for security purposes. Instead, share your experience after the fact, focusing on the historical and educational value of the visit.

Consider uploading your photos to community platforms like Flickr or Instagram with the hashtag

ShorehamAirport, tagging the airports official account. This helps build a collective archive of public engagement and supports the airports visibility as a heritage asset.

Step 10: Depart Respectfully and Leave No Trace

Before leaving, ensure youve taken all personal belongings. Dispose of any trash in designated bins. Avoid leaving items such as water bottles, wrappers, or drone batteries on the grounds. Shoreham Airport prides itself on environmental stewardship, and visitors play a key role in maintaining its clean, sustainable environment.

If youve enjoyed your visit, consider leaving a positive review on Google Maps or the airports website. Positive feedback helps sustain public interest and encourages continued investment in visitor facilities.

Best Practices

Maximizing your Shoreham Airport tour requires more than just following stepsit demands mindfulness, respect, and preparation. Below are best practices that distinguish a thoughtful visitor from a casual observer.

1. Visit on Weekdays for a Quieter Experience

Weekends, particularly Saturdays, are busier due to flight training sessions and private flights. If you prefer solitude and uninterrupted observation, choose a weekday morning. Youre more likely to witness training flights in progress, which are often slower and more deliberate, offering better learning opportunities.

2. Dress Appropriately for the Weather and Environment

Shoreham is coastal, meaning weather can change rapidly. Even on sunny days, wind off the English Channel can be brisk. Wear layered clothing, sturdy closed-toe shoes (no sandals), and bring a windproof jacket. Avoid bright colors or reflective materials that might distract pilots or aircraft crew.

3. Bring Binoculars and a Notebook

While many aircraft are visible to the naked eye, binoculars enhance your ability to read registration numbers (tail codes), observe cockpit activity, and identify aircraft models. A small notebook allows you to log observations, such as aircraft types, times of takeoff/landing, and weather conditionsuseful for later research or educational projects.

4. Learn Basic Aviation Terminology

Familiarizing yourself with terms like downwind leg, base leg, final approach, taxiway, and ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service) significantly deepens your understanding. Many free online resources and YouTube channels offer beginner aviation lessons. Spend 1520 minutes reviewing these before your visit.

5. Be Mindful of Noise and Distractions

While the sound of aircraft engines is part of the experience, loud conversations, music, or phone calls near the runway fence can interfere with pilot communications. Keep personal devices on silent and speak quietly. If youre with children, prepare them beforehand about the importance of staying calm and quiet during active operations.

6. Support the Airport Economically

Purchase a coffee or snack from the terminal cafe. Buy a postcard or aviation-themed merchandise if available. These small purchases directly support the airports maintenance and community programs. Many of the volunteers who maintain heritage displays rely on visitor contributions to fund restoration projects.

7. Avoid Peak Event Days Unless Intending to Attend

Shoreham hosts annual events such as the Shoreham Airshow (usually in June) and the Classic Aircraft Show. While these are spectacular, they attract thousands of visitors and can overwhelm the facility. If your goal is quiet observation and learning, avoid these dates. Save them for a future visit when you can fully immerse yourself in the spectacle.

8. Educate Yourself on Aviation History

Shorehams significance extends beyond its current operations. Research its role in the Battle of Britain, its use by the Royal Flying Corps, and its transition from military to civilian use. Knowing this context transforms your visit from a casual stroll into a meaningful pilgrimage through aviation history.

9. Never Assume Access to Restricted Areas

Even if a gate appears unlocked or a building looks open, never enter. Areas such as the control tower, fuel depot, hangar complexes, and maintenance sheds are off-limits. Trespassing not only violates regulations but can trigger emergency responses that disrupt airport operations and endanger lives.

10. Follow the Lead of Staff and Volunteers

If you see staff or volunteers moving in a certain direction, or gathering near a specific viewpoint, its likely a safe and recommended observation spot. Their presence indicates authorized activity. Mimicking their behavior ensures you remain within acceptable boundaries.

Tools and Resources

Enhancing your Shoreham Airport tour requires more than footworkit demands the right tools and access to reliable information. Below is a curated list of essential resources to elevate your experience.

Official Website: shorehamairport.com

The airports official site is your primary source for opening hours, event calendars, contact details, and safety guidelines. Bookmark it and check it before every visit. The site also features a historical timeline and photo gallery that provides context before you arrive.

Flight Tracking Apps: FlightRadar24 and ADSBexchange

These free apps allow you to track real-time aircraft movements around Shoreham Airport. By entering the airports ICAO code (EGLK), you can see which aircraft are currently in the pattern, their altitude, speed, and registration. This helps you identify specific planes you observe and understand their flight paths.

Aviation Scanner (Handheld Radio)

A VHF aviation scanner tuned to 126.7 MHz (Shorehams Common Traffic Advisory Frequency) lets you listen to pilot communications. Entry-level scanners like the Uniden BC125AT or the Whistler WS1040 are affordable and effective. Use headphones to avoid disturbing others. This tool turns passive observation into active learning.

Books on Shoreham Airport History

• Shoreham Airport: A History by John M. Smith A definitive account of the airfields evolution from 1910 to the present.
• The Brighton Airfield: Aviation on the South Coast by Patricia H. Clarke Explores regional airfields, with a dedicated chapter on Shoreham.
• Flying the South Coast: Tales from Shoreham and Beyond by David L. Wright First-hand pilot narratives and anecdotes.

These books are available through local libraries, the airport cafe, or online retailers like Amazon and AbeBooks.

Local Aviation Clubs and Societies

Joining or connecting with local groups adds depth to your visit:

• Shoreham Aero Club Offers flight training and social events.
• Historic Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) Volunteers who restore vintage aircraft based at Shoreham.
• West Sussex Aviation Heritage Group Maintains archives and organizes guided heritage walks.

Many of these organizations host open days and welcome visitors. Contact them via their websites or social media pages.

Google Earth and Satellite Imagery

Before your visit, use Google Earth to explore the airport layout. Zoom in on EGLK to identify runway orientation, taxiways, hangar locations, and fence boundaries. This helps you mentally navigate the site before arriving and enhances your spatial understanding of aircraft movements.

Photography Equipment Recommendations

For capturing aircraft in motion:

• Camera with manual focus and fast shutter speed (1/1000s or faster)
• Telephoto lens (70300mm recommended)
• Tripod or monopod for stability
• Neutral density filter for bright daylight conditions

Photographing aircraft during takeoff or landing requires timing and patience. Use burst mode and practice panning techniques to capture motion blur backgrounds while keeping the aircraft sharp.

Mobile Apps for Weather and Wind Conditions

Check wind speed and direction using apps like Windy.com or the Met Office app. Shorehams runway orientation (06/24) means wind from the southwest or northeast is ideal. Knowing the wind direction helps you predict which runway will be active and when.

Real Examples

Real-world examples illustrate how individuals have successfully toured Shoreham Airport and turned their visits into meaningful experiences.

Example 1: The Aviation Student

Emma, a 19-year-old student studying aerospace engineering, visited Shoreham Airport as part of a university project. She arrived on a Tuesday morning, brought her aviation scanner, notebook, and binoculars. After speaking with a volunteer at the cafe, she was given a printed diagram of the airfield and allowed to observe a flight training session from the designated viewing area. She logged 12 takeoffs and landings, noting aircraft models, radio calls, and wind conditions. Later, she compiled her findings into a 10-page report, which her professor used as a model for future students. Emma returned six months later for a flight lesson and is now pursuing a private pilots license.

Example 2: The Family Visit

The Carter familyparents and two children aged 8 and 11visited Shoreham on a summer Sunday. They arrived early, parked, and bought coffee from the terminal. The children were given a free Junior Aviator activity sheet from the cafe, which included matching aircraft to their names and finding specific tail numbers. They watched a vintage Tiger Moth take off and were thrilled when the pilot waved after landing. The father took photos and later created a photo book for the kids. The family returned the following year for the Open Cockpit Weekend, where the children sat in the cockpit of a 1940s Harvard trainer. Their visit sparked a lifelong interest in aviation.

Example 3: The Photographer

James, a professional landscape photographer, visited Shoreham to capture the juxtaposition of historic aircraft against the backdrop of the South Downs. He arrived at golden hour (just before sunset) and used a 300mm lens to isolate a Piper Cub taxiing along the runway, with the chalk cliffs of the Downs visible in the distance. He posted the image on Instagram with the caption: 1910 to 2024flight endures. The photo went viral within the aviation photography community and was later featured in a national aviation magazine. James now leads monthly photography walks at Shoreham, teaching others how to capture the airfields unique aesthetic.

Example 4: The Historian

Dr. Alan Richards, a retired military historian, spent three years researching Shorehams WWII role. He visited the airport monthly, cross-referencing archival documents with on-site observations. He identified a forgotten hangar that had been used as a radar station and worked with the airport to install a historical plaque. His research contributed to a local heritage grant that funded the restoration of the original 1930s terminal sign. His work is now displayed in the airports heritage corner.

Example 5: The Retired Pilot

After 40 years flying commercial jets, retired Captain Derek Moore returned to Shoreham to reconnect with his roots. He had trained at the airport in the 1960s on a Cessna 150. On his visit, he spoke with a flight instructor who was using the same model. He spent an hour sharing stories with the student, then took a short taxi ride around the pattern in a borrowed aircraft. It felt like coming home, he said. His visit inspired the airport to create a Veteran Pilot Welcome Program, where retired pilots can mentor new trainees.

FAQs

Can I tour Shoreham Airport for free?

Yes, public access to the terminal area, viewing zones, and parking is completely free. There are no admission fees for casual visitors. However, donations to the airports heritage fund are encouraged and appreciated.

Do I need to book a tour in advance?

For individual visitors, no booking is required. However, for groups of five or more, educational institutions, media crews, or special requests (e.g., access to the control tower viewing platform), advance notice is strongly recommended. Contact the airport via their websites contact form.

Is Shoreham Airport safe for children?

Yes, provided children are supervised at all times. The public areas are safe and family-friendly. The cafe offers child-friendly snacks, and the airport occasionally hosts Kids Flying Days with activities designed for young visitors.

Can I take pictures of aircraft?

Yes, photography is welcome and encouraged in public viewing areas. However, never climb fences, enter restricted zones, or use drones. Always respect pilot privacy and avoid photographing inside cockpits without permission.

Are there guided tours available?

Regular guided tours are not scheduled daily, but they are offered during special events such as Open Days and Heritage Weekends. You can also request a personalized tour by contacting the airport in advance. Volunteers are often happy to give informal walkthroughs.

Can I fly from Shoreham Airport?

YesShoreham is home to several flight schools offering trial lessons and full pilot training. You dont need to be a member to book a trial flight. Prices start at around 120 for a 30-minute experience flight. Bookings are made directly through the flight schools listed on the airport website.

Is there wheelchair access?

The terminal building, cafe, and main viewing areas are wheelchair accessible. Parking spaces are designated near the entrance. The terrain around the perimeter is grassy and uneven in places, so mobility scooters or all-terrain wheelchairs are recommended for extended exploration.

What happens if theres bad weather?

Light rain or wind does not typically close the airport to visitors. However, heavy fog, storms, or high winds may ground aircraft and reduce visibility. Check the website or call ahead. Even on overcast days, the terminal and heritage displays remain accessible.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome on a leash, but must remain outside the terminal building and away from active aircraft areas. Be considerate of other visitors and clean up after your pet. Some aircraft owners may be uncomfortable around animals, so keep your dog at a respectful distance.

Is there food or drink available?

Yes, the Shoreham Airport Cafe serves coffee, tea, sandwiches, pastries, and cold drinks. Its open daily during operational hours. There are no vending machines, so plan accordingly if visiting outside of cafe hours.

Conclusion

Touring Shoreham Airport is more than a sightseeing excursionits an immersion into the living history of British aviation. From its early days as a pioneering airfield to its current role as a hub for flight training and heritage preservation, Shoreham offers a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the world of general aviation. By following the steps outlined in this guide, adhering to best practices, utilizing available tools, and learning from real visitor experiences, you transform a simple visit into a profound educational journey.

Whether youre drawn by the roar of a vintage engine, the elegance of a propeller aircraft gliding against the coast, or the quiet dedication of volunteers who keep this legacy alive, Shoreham Airport rewards curiosity with authenticity. It does not seek to impress with grandeur, but to connect through history, human effort, and the enduring dream of flight.

As you plan your next visit, remember: you are not just a tourist. You are a steward of aviation heritage. Your presence, your questions, your photographs, and your respect ensure that Shoreham Airport continues to flynot just in the sky, but in the hearts of those who visit.