24 February 2024 , 12:48
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Brits can now stay in an ex-Falklands military helicopter for £325 per night - and it comes fully decked out with room to sleep four.
The camouflaged helicopter comes complete with bedroom interior and a rural shower shack for guests available on the property. The Westland Wessex XT469 helicopter dates back to 1965 and has seen active duty during The Falklands War in 1982, according to the owners. It is a twin-engine craft produced by the British manufacturer Westland Aircraft (later, Westland Helicopters). The Wessex was also used as anti-submarine and SAR-helicopter.
The Westland Wessex is a twin-turboshaft powered development of the Sikorsky S-58. With a maximum speed of 131 mph, a service ceiling of 10,000ft, a range of 483 miles and a maximum takeoff weight of 13,499lbs this helicopter is a once in a lifetime experience.
The bathroom and shower hut (mediadrumimages/HostUnusual)
The bathroom and shower huts (mediadrumimages/HostUnusual)The history of the copter is that is was on E-Bay for £12,500 on November 13, It was then at Carisbrooke, Isle of Wight in a yard to south-west of Froglands Farm and more recently moved to a nearby field. It was put up for for sale on Ream Salvage for £110,000 and it arrived at Froglands where it was poised to be made into farm accommodation.
Local newspapers reported it had been named Sir Galahad, after the ship lost in the Falklands conflict when she is said to have been used as a rescue helicopter. After an extension unit containing kitchen and toilet facilities with matching camouflage paintwork it was converted into a holiday let to sleep four.
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Inside the historic chopper (mediadrumimages/HostUnusual)A listing for the accommodation sates: “Head to this intimate and exclusive glamping site in the centre of the island, named after the historic windmill which was said to supply nearby Carisbrooke Castle with water as far back as the 11th Century. Now characterised by scenic views, rolling fields and roaming livestock, this unique site is home to some incredible glamping experiences to enjoy. Dating back to 1965, Galahad is an original masterpiece of aviation technology and was in active duty during the Falklands War.
The camouflaged helicopter complete with bedroom interior and a rural shower shack for guests (mediadrumimages/HostUnusual)The description continues: “The conversion of this Westland Wessex XT469 has retained as much of the original character and feel as possible. From the cockpit, relax and watch the sunset over the surrounding countryside. Usually sleeping two and a great romantic retreat or honeymoon, the main double bed is situated off the main ‘copter’ and there is a mini bedroom with foam mattress for an additional two small children. The fun and rustic ‘showershack’ uses solar power to provide hot showers, yet Galahad even has its own kitchen, cloakroom and toilet/bidet.”