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SNN destination photo
BRS destination photo

SNNBRS

Which side of the plane to sit from Shannon Airport (Shannon) to Bristol Airport (Bristol)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most diverse landmarks, including the Irish Golden Vale, the Gower Peninsula, the Welsh capital city of Cardiff, and the iconic Severn Bridges during the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Shannon Estuary & Bunratty

Clear views of the historic Bunratty Castle and the winding waterways of the Shannon during the initial climb.

⛰️

The Golden Vale

A view across Ireland's most fertile agricultural heartland, bordered by the distant Galtee Mountains.

🏖️

Gower Peninsula

The first area in the UK designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, featuring dramatic limestone cliffs and sandy bays.

🏙️

Cardiff Bay & City

A fantastic aerial perspective of the Principality Stadium, Cardiff Bay, and the Welsh Senedd building.

🌉

Severn Bridges

The impressive M4 and M48 bridges connecting England and Wales are visible just before the final turn into Bristol.

🚢

Portishead Point

Views of the coastal town and the busy shipping lanes entering the Royal Portbury Dock.

Choose a window seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Cardiff and the Severn Bridges. For morning flights, the sun will be on the right side of the aircraft, making the left side much better for photography without glare. Look out for the 'Mumbles' lighthouse at the tip of the Gower Peninsula.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Lower Shannon Estuary

Broad vistas of the river widening as it meets the Atlantic Ocean to the southwest.

🏔️

Galtee Mountains

Views of Ireland's highest inland mountain range, often capped with snow or mist in winter.

🏝️

Saltee Islands

Located off the coast of Wexford, these islands are famous as one of Ireland's most important bird sanctuaries.

⚓

Bristol Channel

The wide expanse of the estuary where the high tidal range often reveals vast mudflats and unique water patterns.

🌳

North Somerset Coast

Views of the Quantock Hills and the coastal towns of Weston-super-Mare and Clevedon during the approach.

The right side is best for those who enjoy open sea vistas and the rugged southern coastline of Ireland. On late afternoon flights from Shannon to Bristol, you may catch a beautiful sunset reflecting off the Irish Sea and the Bristol Channel. Keep an eye out for Steep Holm island in the middle of the channel.

Top Activities in Bristol
Route Information

Distance: 449 km (279 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 45 min

Departure: SNN (52.702, -8.92482)

Arrival: BRS (51.382702, -2.71909)

Route Type: International

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