The Red Arrows will fly over Longleat this Friday as the RAF’s famous aerobatic team helps launch a spectacular weekend of aviation at the Wiltshire estate.
The flypast will take place at 2.15pm on Friday, 11 September, with the Red Arrows flying across the front of Longleat House as part of celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of Longleat’s Drive-Through Safari.
The flypast will open the air display at Icons of the Sky, which will feature aircraft and helicopters throughout the weekend alongside a collection of hot air balloons.
Among the balloons appearing will be several making their UK debut, including Yara, a bird-shaped balloon whose character wears a helmet and goggles.
Yara and her pilot Babar Siddiqui, from Oswestry, are currently undertaking a world tour, with Longleat the only UK venue where the balloon will appear in 2026.
A giant suitcase-shaped balloon carrying the Send My Bag branding will also be at the event as part of an attempt to set a world record for visiting the most countries in 12 months.
Other UK debutants include a rare Chateau Balleroy balloon and a giant 120ft scarecrow.
There will also be a 100ft birthday cake balloon, created to mark the diamond anniversary of Longleat’s Drive-Through Safari, which opened in 1966 as the first drive-through safari outside Africa.
Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, said the Red Arrows would provide an impressive opening to the weekend.
“This will be an incredible way to start the air display,” he said.
Weather permitting, visitors will be able to see two hot air balloon ascents each day, with the estate opening its gates from 6.30am.
The Icons of the Sky event is included with the standard Longleat day ticket, meaning visitors can combine the air displays with the estate’s other attractions, including the Drive-Through Safari, Boat Safari, hedge maze and Adventure Castle.
Road closures
Several local routes will be affected during the event.
Lodge Drive, Pleasure Walk and Sustrans cycle routes 25 and 22 will be closed to pedestrians, vehicles and bicycles throughout the weekend.
Heaven’s Gate and the car park will also be closed.
Picket Post Road, between the Longleat entrance and Horningsham, will be closed from 1pm to 9pm each day.
Longleat House will also be closed during the event.
Visitors are advised to check arrangements before travelling, particularly because of the road closures around the estate.
