Unique vacation destination lets visitors sleep inside old rescue helicopters with original controls

Published on Jul 09, 2025 at 10:46 PM (UTC+4)
by Jason Fan

Last updated on Jul 09, 2025 at 12:47 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Emma Matthews

For those looking to take their next getaway to new heights, Pinewood Park, UK, may be the most unique vacation destination ever – because you can sleep inside old rescue helicopters.

The park is home to three old rescue helicopters, which have now been transformed into surprisingly spacious and family-friendly glamping pods.

With their original flight controls still in place, these aircraft once saved lives in combat zones and search-and-rescue missions.

One was even famously piloted by Prince William during his time with the Royal Air Force.

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The old rescue helicopters come well-equipped with amenities

Pinewood Park, UK, is currently the only glamping site in the country offering overnight stays where you can sleep inside old rescue helicopters.

Inside the Sea King helicopters, guests will find a cozy setup complete with a double bed and bunk beds perfect for kids aged 13 and under.

The accommodation is well stocked with amenities like a fridge, microwave, electric sockets, and even a raised outdoor deck with seating.

While the old rescue helicopters no longer take to the skies, they still offer a thrilling sense of adventure for families, couples, and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Guests need to bring their own bedding, towels, and toiletries, as well as a few home comforts, like cutlery and board games.

While there’s no Wi-Fi at Pinewood Park, UK, the idea is to unplug and enjoy the novelty of bedding down to sleep inside old rescue helicopters surrounded by the peaceful Yorkshire countryside.

Toilet and shower facilities are located nearby, and minimum stays typically range from two to three nights.

Rates may vary, but a last-minute stay in July 2025 will only cost you £199 ($270) per night. Which isn’t a bad price for such a unique vacation destination.

The Sea King helicopters themselves boast a rich legacy.

Originally developed by Sikorsky and licensed for production in the UK by Westland, Sea Kings have been used by the UK’s Royal Navy and RAF since the 1960s.

Known for their versatility and reliability, they’ve served in roles ranging from anti-submarine warfare to civilian rescue operations.

The RAF officially retired the Sea King from service in 2015, but a few have been given a second life, like the ones at Pinewood Park.

Unique vacation destination experiences are a growing trend

This unusual glamping option taps into the growing trend of ‘experience stays’, where travelers choose accommodations that offer more than just a bed for the night.

Whether you prefer your unique vacation destination to be an Airbnb converted from an Airbus A320 or a private villa made from a Boeing 737, there are experiences available for everyone.

If you want an even more unique vacation, you can even sleep in the Ferrari Museum in Italy, or the iconic Spice Girls bus that was used by the British girl pop group in the ’90s.

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Jason Fan is an experienced content creator who graduated from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore with a degree in communications. He then relocated to Australia during a millennial mid-life crisis. A fan of luxury travel and high-performance machines, he politely thanks chatbots just in case the AI apocalypse ever arrives. Jason covers a wide variety of topics, with a special focus on technology, planes and luxury.