Shuttleworth Collection

The Shuttleworth Collection is a working aviation, automotive and agricultural museum at Old Warden Aerodrome in Bedfordshire. Founded in 1928 by aviator Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth, it occupies a grass airfield surrounded by farmland. The site includes hangars, workshops and a small museum building. Restoration work is done by twelve full-time engineers and many volunteers from the 3,000-strong Shuttleworth Veteran Aeroplane Society. The collection focuses on keeping aircraft in flying condition, with about seven air shows each year. The collection stands out for its five Edwardian aeroplanes, including the oldest British aeroplane still flying. This Bleriot XI, registered G-AANG, dates from 1909 and still uses its original engine. Another highlight is the annual Flying Proms event, which combines flying displays with live music. There are also vintage cars and tractors on display, reflecting the founder’s interest in engineering and agriculture. Events such as model-flying days and flying proms draw visitors throughout the year. Visitors find restored aircraft from different eras, including a Westland Wallace replica and a de Havilland DH89A Rapide in British European Airways livery. The Sopwith Dove G-EAGA is another notable machine in the collection. The airfield setting allows planes to take off and land close to the viewing areas. The workshops are often open, showing volunteers restoring aircraft by hand. The rural surroundings add to the peaceful atmosphere of the visit.