Taking flight this September!
1 May 2025
On the eve of the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we have announced we will pay tribute to those that gave their lives in the line-up for this year’s Icons of the Sky spectacular at the estate.
VE Day – 8 May 1945 - saw the surrender of German forces at the end of World War II, and to commemorate the anniversary, a Supermarine Spitfire will feature throughout the three days of the September event.
The Iconic Spitfire played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain and air battles all over the world during WWII. As an addition to Longleat’s air display, the Royal Air Force will be bringing the world famous RAF Falcons mass parachute team and a Tutor T MK1 aerobatic trainer to Longleat in September. It is the second-year hot air balloons and planes will be taking to the sky above the stately home with tickets on sale from today – 1 May.
Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, said: “2025 is the 80th anniversary of VE Day and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and RAF teams will be on the ground to talk about the work of the flight from how they keep our historic aircraft in the skies, to their work with veterans and their mission to honour those that gave their lives for this country.
“Longleat played its part during the war with the Royal School for Daughters of Officers of the Army in Bath evacuating to Longleat House and an American Military Hospital was based in the park – near to where the rhinos live today. It was designed to accommodate 750 patients and personnel.”
As well as planes, the three-day aviation extravaganza will feature a unique aerial ballet by the Sydney Charles Display Team and Oggy the Friendly Dragon will be making his debut UK appearance in 2025; this 150 feet tall hot air balloon will be at Longleat for one of only three appearances in Britain.
Scott added: “As well as Oggy, also making its debut will be a huge football, Funny Bunny coming from Belgium, and Tropsy, a baby dino as well as many others.
“We will also be seeing the traditional favourites flying high above Longleat House, some in the skies and some tethered; these include Michelin Man, Rupert Bear and Thomas the Tank Engine.
“The weekend is jam-packed with activities and all of the displays are included in the day ticket. Naturally the mass ascents of the hot air balloons is weather dependent but even if they aren’t able to take to the air, the display of tethered balloons across the Capability Brown landscape is a sight to behold.”
Icons of the Sky takes place from 12-14 September. Longleat members can pre-book their tickets on the Friday and Sunday for just £1, with all proceeds going to charitable causes.
