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ORK destination photo
LGW destination photo

ORK → LGW

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

Our Recommendation
7.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most diverse scenery, including the rugged Pembrokeshire coast of Wales, the expansive Severn Estuary, and the potential for a distant London skyline view during the approach into Gatwick.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
⚓

Cork Harbour

One of the largest natural harbours in the world, visible immediately after takeoff from ORK.

🌊

St George's Channel

The deep blue waters separating the south of Ireland from the Welsh coastline.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

Pembrokeshire Coast

Views of the dramatic cliffs and bays of Southwest Wales as the plane enters UK airspace.

🌉

Severn Estuary

The massive tidal mouth of the River Severn and the bridges connecting England and Wales.

🏙️

London Skyline

On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of London are visible to the north during the descent.

Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, ensuring better visibility and photo opportunities. On the approach to Gatwick, keep a close watch during the final 15 minutes of flight; if the aircraft enters a holding pattern to the north of the airport, you will get an excellent view of central London.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🏖️

East Cork Coastline

The sandy beaches and rocky headlands of the Irish coast heading east towards Youghal.

⛰️

Exmoor National Park

The high moorland and steep cliffs of the North Devon coast visible across the Bristol Channel.

🏰

Somerset Levels

The historic, low-lying flatlands of Somerset punctuated by the iconic Glastonbury Tor.

🌳

North Wessex Downs

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty featuring rolling chalk hills and ancient woodlands.

🏞️

South Downs

The lush green ridges of the South Downs National Park visible just before landing at Gatwick.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights if you enjoy golden hour lighting over the English countryside. It provides the best views of the North Devon and Somerset coastlines. During the final descent, look out for the distinctive white chalk carvings or 'hill figures' occasionally visible in the Southern English landscape.

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Route Information

Distance: 579 km (360 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 58 min

Departure: ORK (51.84130096435547, -8.491109848022461)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: International

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