See our National Trust and Natural England sections to learn about flying over their properties.

As per the CAA Drone Code - you can fly small drones and model aircraft that are lighter than 250g (and now UK marked drones) at residential, recreational, commercial and industrial sites. However, many people at these locations won't realise that you are also legally allowed to fly over and/or film such sites as demonstrated in these videos.

According to English Heritage, you cannot fly a drone over English Heritage land without specific permissions being granted, the pilot agreeing to a set of stringent rules, regulations, policies and digging deep in your pockets!

That said, they do now state on their updated drone policy that "Whilst we do not give permission for recreational users to take off and land at our sites we are aware that drone pilots adhering to the UK Drone Code may choose to fly over English Heritage sites (except in the cases of no-fly zones)." which is a huge step forward for drone pilots and photographers.

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Take It Outside

The above regulations and requirements are their policies and therefore are only applicable if you are operating on their property. Flying from just outside the boundary of English Heritage land is totally acceptable, so long as you’re abiding by the CAA drone regulations. It’s important to be aware of the boundary regulations and ensure that your takeoff point is fully outside their land. This could be on public land or even roadsides next to the property.

Make sure you know the boundaries and make sure your launch spot is away from their property, whether that's public land or just some roadside space nearby but in a space that allows you to see the drone throughout the flight.

CAA (and international) law prohibits land owners from owning the airspace above their land so you are free to fly providing there is no Airspace Restriction covering the site. Apps like Drone Assist will confirm this for you and help you make the right decision as to whether or not it's safe to fly.

Have a backup plan for those emergency landings, even if it means landing your drone inside English Heritage's land.

Above all, just be a responsible and considerate pilot. Some people visiting those English Heritage sites might not be too keen on drones being overhead. Your drone fun depends on showing respect for others and Mother Nature.

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Airspace Misconception

Contrary to popular belief, English Heritage doesn't have the authority to assert ownership over the airspace above their historic properties. The regulations governing airspace ownership in the UK are under the purview of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and adhere to international laws. Consequently, English Heritage does not have the ability to regulate or restrict the use of airspace over its properties.

Other Interactions

There are three likely interactions you'll deal with as a drone pilot. Those with the general public, the police and employees (including security) of companies.