Clacton Air Show

The Clacton Airshow, staged by Tendring District Council, typically begins or ends with an exciting aerobatic display by the renowned Royal Air Force Red Arrows.

The 9 Red Arrows Aerobatic Team making their initial flypast at the start of their display.

The 9 Red Arrows Aerobatic Team making their initial flypast at the start of their display.

Flypass of five of the nine Red Arrows during display

Every year on the Thursday and Friday before the August bank holiday weekend, Clacton-on-Sea welcomes thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the free airshow. This event has become a major highlight on the Essex calendar, attracting families, aviation enthusiasts, and day-trippers. Spectators sit and stroll along the promenade and sandy beaches, stretching from the east side of the pier to beyond Martello Beach, having an excellent close-up view of the aerial displays just off the shoreline.

The show usually features a flyover by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, showcasing iconic aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire, Hawker Hurricane fighters, and the Avro Lancaster Bomber.

Supermarine Spitfire

Avro Lancaster Bomber

Over the years, numerous military jet propelled and piston-engined aircraft have demonstrated their flying capabilities, including the Harrier Jump Jet, Tornado GR4, Eurofighter, Typhoon, Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress and P-51 Mustang. The event has also included various helicopter displays, aerobatic performances by the Pitts Special, wing walking on a biplane and a team of expert parachutist dropping on the beach.

Boeing B-17 Flying Fotress

Boeing B-17 Flying Fotress

Pitts Special

Tornado GR4

Tornado GR4

You can find this year’s schedule at clactonairshow.com. The flying displays typically occur from around 13:00 to 17:00 on both days, depending on the aircraft's commitments elsewhere. A highlight of the event is the "Twilight" flight display on Thursday evening around 19:30, which concludes with a spectacular free fireworks show at Clacton Pier.

Twilight Impressive Display

An Impressive Twilight Spectacular

Helichopter Firework Display

including "Otto" the Helichopter

Firebirds Stunt Display

and the Firebirds Stunt Display

The entire greensward, which is at the heart of the flying display, is filled with static aircraft displays. This often including a replica of a Chinook helicopter and interactive exhibits from the RAF, Army, and Royal Navy. Numerous stalls offer memorabilia, hot and cold food, drinks, ice cream, gifts, and much more. Additionally, local and national charities have display stands and exhibits.

Watching the Red Arrows ariival on the west side of the cafe

Watching the Red Arrows arrival on the westside of the cafe

Looking out to sea in front of the cafe awaiting the next display

Looking out to sea in front of the cafe awaiting the next display

Greensward Café, being right at the centre of the event adjacent to the greensward, offers a complete takeaway menu. Part of the outdoor seating area is converted into a BBQ space where we serve burgers and hot dogs. Outdoor tables and chairs are available for hire for the entire day, from 11:00 to 18:00, at a rate of £40 per table, which includes four chairs. If you would like to book a table, please contact the café and ask for more details.

Whether you are visiting us to see the airshow, soak in the seaside atmosphere, or just to enjoy a day out with family and friends, Greensward Café looks forward to welcoming you for this spectacular event.