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EDI destination photo
SEN destination photo

EDISEN

Which side of the plane to sit from Edinburgh Airport (Edinburgh) to Southend Airport (Southend)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side of the aircraft offers an incredible vantage point for the rugged North Sea coastline. Passengers can witness the architectural marvels of the Forth Bridges shortly after takeoff, followed by a sequence of historic castles, islands, and the dramatic estuaries of northern England and East Anglia before approaching the Thames.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌉

The Forth Bridges

Immediately after departure, witness the iconic red cantilever Forth Bridge and the modern Queensferry Crossing over the Firth of Forth.

🏰

Northumberland Castles

Aerial views of the stunning Bamburgh Castle and the historic Holy Island of Lindisfarne perched on the edge of the North Sea.

⚓

Tynemouth & Port of Tyne

The dramatic ruins of Tynemouth Priory and the busy maritime activity at the mouth of the River Tyne near Newcastle.

🌊

The Humber Estuary

A clear view of the massive Humber Bridge and the unique curved sand spit of Spurn Point reaching into the sea.

🦆

The Wash

The vast, square-shaped bay and estuary between Norfolk and Lincolnshire, famous for its salt marshes and wildlife.

🎡

Southend Pier

Upon descent, look for the world's longest pleasure pier stretching 1.3 miles into the Thames Estuary.

Sit on the left for the best coastal photography. Morning flights are particularly scenic as the sun rises over the North Sea, illuminating the cliffs and beaches of Northumberland. During the descent into Southend, keep your camera ready for the Thames Estuary's distinctive sandbanks and shipping lanes.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Pentland Hills

A view of the rolling peaks just south of Edinburgh shortly after the plane reaches cruising altitude.

🌄

The Cheviot Hills

The high ground of the Anglo-Scottish border, offering vast stretches of moorland and wilderness.

🌿

North York Moors

Extensive heather moorland and deep valleys visible as the flight traverses Northern England.

⛪

Lincoln Cathedral

The magnificent triple towers of this historic cathedral often stand out prominently against the flat Lincolnshire landscape.

🚜

East Anglian Fens

A patchwork of highly productive agricultural land and reclaimed wetlands stretching toward the horizon.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to enjoy the 'golden hour' glow over the English countryside. Look out for the distinctive spires of Lincoln or Ely on the horizon. It offers a quieter, more pastoral view compared to the dramatic coast of the left side.

Top Activities in Southend
Route Information

Distance: 555 km (345 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 56 min

Departure: EDI (55.95000076293945, -3.372499942779541)

Arrival: SEN (51.5713996887207, 0.6955559849739075)

Route Type: Domestic

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