Experience the thrill of soaring through the skies with a unique gliding experience at the prestigious London Gliding Club, located in the stunning area of Dunstable Downs. This day-long adventure promises not only breathtaking views but also the exhilarating sensation of flying alongside the birds.
Your gliding day begins with a comprehensive introduction and safety briefing, after which you and your guests will embark on two distinct flights. The first ascent is achieved with an air tow by a light aircraft, followed by a thrilling winch launch that propels you to heights of up to 2000 feet. For those feeling adventurous, there’s the option to take control of the glider, guided by the skilled hands of our certified instructors from the London Gliding Club.
While some guests take to the air, others will join the ground crew, participating actively in the day’s operations and gaining an insider’s view of the seamless coordination required at the Dunstable Gliding Club.
The experience doesn’t end there. Each participant will receive a three-month temporary membership to the Dunstable Downs Gliding Club, offering a wonderful opportunity to continue learning and enjoying the sport.
Suggested Itinerary:
- 09.00 AM: Arrival and Welcome Upon arrival at the picturesque Dunstable Downs, guests will be warmly welcomed and invited to start their day with freshly brewed coffee and a selection of pastries. This provides an excellent opportunity for guests to mingle, enjoy the serene environment of the London Gliding Club, and prepare for the day ahead.
- 09.30 AM: Safety Briefing and Introduction The morning will proceed with a detailed safety briefing led by our experienced instructors. This session will cover the fundamentals of gliding, including the mechanics of flight, what to expect in the air, and safety procedures both in the air and on the ground. Guests will receive an overview of the day’s activities and learn about the different types of launches — air tow and winch.
- 10.00 AM: First Gliding Session The first gliding session of the day begins. Guests will be split into groups and paired with their instructors. Each participant will experience being towed to altitude by a light aircraft, allowing them to feel the initial thrill of ascent and the calm that follows once the tow is released and the glider soars freely.
- 12.30 PM: Light Lunch Break After the morning’s adrenaline-filled activities, a light, alcohol-free lunch will be served. This provides a perfect time for guests to relax, reflect on their first flights, and chat about their experiences. The lunch will feature a variety of sandwiches, salads, and refreshments, catering to all dietary needs.
- 14.00 PM: Afternoon Gliding Session Post-lunch, the second gliding session will commence. During this session, guests will experience the winch launch method, where the glider is rapidly pulled along the ground by a cable and then released, quickly gaining altitude. This session offers a more exhilarating takeoff compared to the air tow and is often a favourite among thrill-seekers.
- 16.30 PM: Conclusion of Gliding Activities As the gliding comes to an end, guests will gather to debrief and share their experiences. Instructors will provide feedback and discuss various aspects of each guest’s flights, offering insights and answering any lingering questions about the day’s gliding.
- Evening: Barbecue and Socialising To round off an unforgettable day, the bar will open and a BBQ will be lit. This casual evening setting offers guests the chance to unwind and recount the day’s highs and lows over grilled delights and a selection of beers, wines, and soft drinks. This is a time for relaxation and social interaction, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Dunstable Downs as the sun sets.
What’s Included in Your Gliding Experience Day at Dunstable Downs
1- Two Flights Per Person
Each guest will enjoy two distinct flying experiences. The first, an air tow, involves the glider being pulled aloft by a powered aircraft, providing a gentle ascent and the perfect introduction to the art of gliding. The second flight utilises a winch launch, offering a more exhilarating takeoff as the glider rapidly ascends after being catapulted from the ground. Both methods afford unique perspectives and sensations, making for a diverse and thrilling day in the skies.
2- Expert Instruction by Dunstable Downs Gliding Club’s Seasoned Instructors
Guidance and safety are paramount, and our guests will be in good hands with the skilled instructors from the Dunstable Downs Gliding Club. Each instructor brings a wealth of experience and a passion for gliding, ensuring that even complete novices feel comfortable and confident in taking control of the glider, if they choose.
3- Refreshments Upon Arrival and a Buffet Lunch
Upon arrival at the gliding club, guests will be greeted with a selection of fine refreshments, including tea, coffee, and pastries — a perfect start to the day. Midday, a buffet lunch will be served, featuring an assortment of dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary requirements. This meal is designed to be light enough to keep guests comfortable during their flights while being satisfying and delicious.
4- An Early Evening BBQ and Open Bar
After the day’s adventures, guests can relax and unwind at our early evening barbecue. This informal gathering is an ideal opportunity for guests to exchange stories of their aerial exploits while enjoying a selection of grilled meats, vegetarian options, and accompaniments. The open bar, available for two hours, will offer beers, wines, and soft drinks, allowing guests to toast to their new experiences as the sun sets over Dunstable Downs.
5- Three-Month Temporary Membership of the Dunstable Downs Gliding Club
Every guest will receive a three-month temporary membership to the Dunstable Downs Gliding Club. This membership is an invitation to further explore the sport of gliding, providing access to the club’s facilities and the opportunity to book additional flights and instruction at member rates.
6- Comprehensive Event Management by Oliver Myles
From the initial planning stages to the final goodbyes, our day is seamlessly coordinated by Oliver Myles. This includes pre-event planning, on-the-day management, and post-event follow-up, ensuring a smoothly run event that leaves guests with nothing to worry about except enjoying their gliding experience.
This detailed package is crafted to ensure that every aspect of your day at Dunstable Downs is enjoyable, memorable, and leaves you eager to return to the skies. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or organising a corporate outing, the gliding experience day promises excitement, relaxation, and a touch of luxury.
Dunstable Downs Gliding Prices
The price for the gliding experience at Dunstable Downs Gliding Club starts from £375 + VAT per person. This pricing is based on a minimum group of 20 guests, making it ideal for larger gatherings such as corporate events, team-building exercises, or special occasions with friends and family.
Additional Information:
Guests who prefer to observe rather than participate can be accommodated; please enquire for pricing details. We recommend a light lunch to ensure comfort during flights, and alcohol consumption is reserved for post-flight celebrations. Please be aware that height and weight restrictions will apply for safety reasons; these will be clearly detailed during the briefing.
Please note that gliding is subject to weather conditions and may be rescheduled on short notice; in such events, we will assist you in finding an alternative date.
This gliding experience at Dunstable Downs promises not just a day but a memorable adventure that will be talked about for years to come. Whether you’re seeking to fulfil a dream of flight or organising a unique corporate event, the London Gliding Club at Dunstable provides an exceptional setting and unparalleled service.
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