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LGW destination photo
NCL destination photo

LGWNCL

Which side of the plane to sit from London Gatwick Airport (London) to Newcastle Airport (Newcastle)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior vantage point for the English coastline, the Humber Estuary, and iconic landmarks like Durham Cathedral and the Angel of the North during the descent into Newcastle.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🎡

Thames Estuary

The widening mouth of the River Thames where the industrial docks meet the North Sea.

🌊

The Wash

The distinct rectangular bay between East Anglia and Lincolnshire, known for its vast salt marshes.

🌉

Humber Bridge

Spot the elegant suspension bridge crossing the Humber Estuary near the city of Hull.

🏰

Durham Cathedral

The UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a dramatic peninsula above the River Wear during the final descent.

🕊️

Angel of the North

Anthony Gormley's iconic rust-colored sculpture standing guard over the A1 motorway near Gateshead.

🚢

Tynemouth & Coast

The historic priory and the piers marking the entrance to the River Tyne as the plane turns for arrival.

The right side is the definitive choice for landmark spotting. For the clearest views of the North Sea coast and the Humber Bridge, morning flights offer the best illumination. Keep your camera ready as you pass south of Durham for the best view of the Cathedral.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Greater London Skyline

Excellent views of the capital's expanding urban footprint and distant skyscrapers shortly after departure from Gatwick.

🌲

The Chilterns

Designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty featuring rolling chalk hills and dense woodland blocks.

⛰️

The Peak District

Rugged landscapes of the Dark Peak and the southern Pennines visible during the cruise phase.

🏟️

St James' Park

The massive white cantilevered roof of the Newcastle United stadium is often visible if the aircraft loops for a northern approach.

Opt for the left side on evening flights to witness the sunset over the Pennines and the Lake District mountains in the distance. This side is also better for viewing the sprawl of the Midlands and the industrial heritage of South Yorkshire.

Top Activities in Newcastle
Route Information

Distance: 444 km (276 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 44 min

Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Arrival: NCL (55.037498474121094, -1.6916699409484863)

Route Type: Domestic

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