About The Shuttleworth Collection
The Shuttleworth Collection is a collection of vintage aircraft and vehicles located in the United Kingdom. The collection is based at the Old Warden Aerodrome in Bedfordshire and is open to the public for viewing and for airshows. The collection includes a wide variety of aircraft, vehicles, and automobiles from the early days of flight and motoring. Some of the highlights of the collection include a replica of the Wright Brothers’ Flyer, a Sopwith Camel, and a World War II-era Hawker Hurricane. The collection also includes a number of vintage cars and motorcycles. The Shuttleworth Collection is a registered charity and the proceeds from admissions and events go towards the preservation and restoration of the collection.
Notable exhibits
The Shuttleworth Collection has a diverse collection of vintage aircraft and vehicles, including some notable exhibits such as:
- The Wright Brothers' replica Flyer, is a replica of the first powered aircraft that was flown by the Wright Brothers in 1903.
- A Sopwith Camel is a British First World War single-seat biplane fighter aircraft that was flown by the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service.
- A Hawker Hurricane is a British Second World War single-seat fighter aircraft that was flown by the Royal Air Force and other air forces.
- A Supermarine Spitfire is a British single-seat fighter aircraft that was flown by the Royal Air Force and other air forces during World War II.
- A Miles Magister is a British two-seat monoplane basic trainer of the Royal Air Force during World War II.
- A Bristol Boxkite, which is a British biplane of 1910, was one of the first aircraft built by the Bristol Aeroplane Company.
- A collection of Vintage Cars, Motorcycles, and bicycles
- A collection of early engines and aero engines
These are just a few examples of the many notable exhibits in the collection, please note that the collection is constantly changing and evolving with new acquisitions and restorations.
Food & drink
The Shuttleworth Collection offers a variety of food and drinks options for visitors to enjoy. The on-site café, known as The Aeronauts, serves a range of hot and cold food, including sandwiches, salads, and hot dishes, as well as cakes and pastries. The café also serves a selection of hot and cold drinks, including tea, coffee, and soft drinks. Visitors can also bring their own picnics and enjoy them in the designated picnic areas around the aerodrome.
During the summer months, the collection also offers a BBQ service, with a variety of grilled food and drink options available. The collection also offers a variety of ice cream options as well.
Please note that the availability of food and drink options can vary depending on the season and event schedule, and it's always recommended to check with the collection website before visiting to confirm.
Length of visit
The length of your visit to the Shuttleworth Collection will depend on your interests and how much time you have available. A typical visit to the collection may take around 2 to 3 hours, but you could spend longer if you wish.
You can explore the collection at your own pace, viewing the aircraft and vehicles on display and learning about the history of each one. You can also attend a guided tour, which will give you a more in-depth understanding of the collection and its history.
There are also regular airshows and events held at the collection, which will add extra time to your visit if you plan to attend one. These events often include displays of the aircraft and vehicles in the collection, as well as other flying displays and activities, so it's always good to check the collection's calendar of events before your visit.
In general, the length of your visit to the Shuttleworth Collection will depend on your interests, and how much you want to see and learn.
Hints & tips
Here are some tips and advice for visitors to the Shuttleworth Collection:
- Check the collection's calendar of events before your visit, as the collection often has airshows and other events that you may want to attend.
- Plan your visit in advance, so you can make the most of your time at the collection.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you will be walking around the collection's grounds.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat if visiting on a sunny day.
- Take note that the collection is based on an active aerodrome, so be aware of your surroundings and follow the safety instructions provided by the collection staff.
- Bring a camera or a smartphone to take photos of the collection's exhibits.
- If you're interested in a specific exhibit, check the collection's website for information about it before your visit, so you know what to expect.
- If you're interested in the history of aviation, consider taking a guided tour, which will give you a more in-depth understanding of the collection and its exhibits.
- The collection also offers a flight experience in some of the aircraft, it's something to consider if you're interested.
- If you're planning to bring children, there are a few hands-on activities that they can participate in, check the collection's website for more information.
Overall, the Shuttleworth Collection is a fascinating place to visit, with a diverse collection of vintage aircraft and vehicles. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can make the most of your visit and enjoy the unique experience that the collection has to offer.
Travel Directions
The Shuttleworth Collection is located at Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, England, SG18 9EP.
By Car:
- The collection is easily accessible by car via the A1, A421 or A507.
- There is ample parking on-site and it's free of charge
By Public Transport:
- The nearest train station is Biggleswade, which is about 2 miles from the collection.
- You can take a bus from Biggleswade station to the collection, check the bus timetable for more information
- Taxis are also available from Biggleswade station to the collection
By Air:
- London Luton Airport is the nearest airport, it's about 20 miles from the collection, and you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the collection.
It's always recommended to check the website or call the collection for more detailed information and to confirm the schedule of events, as the collection is based on an active aerodrome, and the schedule may change.
