The Shuttleworth Collection depicts the history of flight from the early 1900s to the 1950s and shows how the aeroplane operated in the pioneering years, was rapidly developed through necessity during World War I, was used for sport, pleasure and business in the 1920s and 30s and once again became a fighting machine in World War II.
The Collection is situated at Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, one of the few traditional all grass aerodromes still in regular use, (which is part of Old Warden Park Estate) and is displayed in eight hangars, which include a workshop hangar giving the visitor a chance to view restoration and maintenance in progress. There is also a vehicle section, displaying vintage and veteran cars, motorcycles and bicycles and, from a bygone era, the coach room with horse drawn carriages. The rural surroundings help to recreate a charismatic atmosphere and the feeling of stepping back into the 1920s/30s.
The Shuttleworth Collection is open to view every day (except for the Christmas to New Year week) and is also famous for its regular flying displays when, during the summer season, all of the airworthy aircraft are flown, re-creating flying during the Edwardian period, the First World War, peacetime years of the twenties and early thirties and then World War Two. Also to be seen on flying days and evenings are the Collection’s vintage motor cars and motorcycles, complete with suitably attired drivers and passengers!
We have one of the largest Bird of Prey Centres in the UK with over 300 hundred birds. There are daily flying demonstrations and the centre is housed in a beautiful natural woodland setting within Old Warden Park. The Swiss Garden is a restored Regency garden of some 9 acres with later Victorian additions. This picturesque garden is a haven of peace, tranquillity, just the place to relax and escape. For parents with young children we have a play park in which children can have great fun in a safe environment. We also have a delightful restaurant serving a wide range of beverages, snacks and main meals. Our Visitor Centre offers a wide range of inspirational and exciting merchandise to suit all tastes and budgets, there is something for everyone. We offer a great value family day out, we look forward to welcoming you soon.
The Shuttleworth Collection is located 50 miles north of London and is easily accessible from the A1.
www.shuttleworth.org
