Odiham (RAF)

1West side approach

Immediately after passing the threshold, which will be on your left hand side while driving on the B3349, there is a crash gate from were you can watch the approaching helicopters. You can also take the next right and you will be a little bit further away parallel to the runway 10 approach.

2South side ramp view

On the south side you can get to a crash gate and have a peek on the southern ramp. To reach this spot continue south on the B3349 and take the first road on your left. This is Hayley Lane towards Long Sutton. Upon reaching the outskirts of the village go left again, down Woodhill Lane. Continue on this road for about 1 km after a turn left the road forks right, go straight for the crash gate. You are now close to the 618 VGS area.

3Sling area

At the point were the south east perimeter fence meets the road, there is an entrance to a field. Walk westward into that field for about 400 metres and you will be south of the sling area were Chinooks practice from time to time.

4East side approach

To get to the western approach, go counter clockwise from spot 2. The road meets a slightly larger one, go left on Long Lane. It is difficult to park your car, directly opposite the road you came out of, there is an entrance to a field were you can get the car out of the way. You will now be near the approach to runway 28.

5Northwest side - distant view

For an alternative option to spot some helicopter serials, take the road opposite the entrance road to the housing area and gate of the base, Firs Road. It runs uphill away from the airfield. After about 400 metres you will be at the highest point and you can look back onto the field. The far side ramp and hangar are slightly under 1.5km away, so you need a decent scope and excellent afternoon light to make some numbers.

6Distant view east side approach

By taking the road opposite spot 4, you will be able to gain height. You will be under the eastern approach and as high as the runway providing overview and photographic opportunities. On base will be very distant but with a large lens and plenty of crop this is still do-able. The approach itself should be better.