Background image

Collection

How is it, in this quiet corner of Bedfordshire, that you’ll find the oldest flying aircraft in the world? That’s thanks to Richard Shuttleworth who, during the 1930s, rescued old aircraft and vehicles and brought them to Old Warden Park to restore.

Full of history and fun. The renovation of the aircraft and the setting is just fabulous and I'd forgotten how knowledgeable the staff are!!

Display image Display image Display image Display image

Walking through the six huge hangars at Shuttleworth, you'll see how aviation design developed from Edwardian times up until the 1950s. Don't miss the 1909 Blériot XI, which, along with all of our aircraft, is still airworthy. It's the world's oldest flying aeroplane and it regularly takes the sky at our air shows.

From early 20th century aircraft, cars, buses and motorbikes to steam engines and farm machinery, it's all here for you to discover. Our workshop is always open too, so pop in to say hi and watch us restoring these treasures.

You're Invited image
You're Invited

Book your visit in advance and get free entry for a whole month!

Get your Tickets today
Display image Display image Display image Display image

This private collection was begun by Richard Shuttleworth. Pilot, racing driver, self-taught mechanic and heir to the estate, he rescued old aircraft and vehicles, bringing them back to Old Warden Park to restore. After his death in 1940, flying for the RAF, his mother Dorothy continued adding to the collection.

It's their passion that inspires the engineers at Shuttleworth and what makes it such an exciting place to visit.

1918 AVRO 504K

Sturdy and practical, our aircraft served in both World Wars. In WWI it was used as a training aircraft and during WWII towed gliders in radar installation trials.

1941 Supermarine Spitfire MK VC

The most famous of all the WWII fighter planes, our Spitfire was used to escort USA air force bombers between 1942 and 1943. It has the livery of its original squadron it served, No 310 (Czech) Squadron based at nearby Duxford.

Upcoming Events at Shuttleworth

If you’ve never witnessed a 1909 Blériot XI take off or experienced yoga outdoors, don’t miss our summer events programme. Guaranteed ooohs and ommms.

Display image Display image Display image Display image
The Vehicle Collection
The Vehicle Collection

Richard Shuttleworth wanted every exhibit he collected to be restored to a condition where it was working as intended, and that’s an ethos that is carried through to the present day. Some of the exhibits were his own collection, and others have found their place here.

The veteran vehicles of all shapes and sizes are capable of being driven and ridden, and take part in parades at many of our main events, some can even be seen participating at other venues like Brooklands or in the historic London to Brighton Run!

All of these vehicles have living histories and stories that Shuttleworth is safeguarding for the future. So when you look around at these vehicles today, it’s because of skilled and passionate engineers, volunteers, drivers, and riders they will all continue to drive and be ridden for future generations.

The vehicle collection includes three vintage buses (on which visitors can ride free at many events throughout the year, and one which is available for wedding hire).

Plan your visit image
Plan your visit

We’re open every day (apart from air shows and select events). There are no time limits to your visit (and free parking) so feel free to explore for as long as you like. Buy tickets at the gate or book in advance to get our exclusive offer – our online tickets give you free entry for 30 days!

Address:

Shuttleworth
Old Warden Aerodrome
Nr Biggleswade
Bedfordshire SG18 9DX

Summer opening hours (15 Feb - 31 Oct):

10.00 - 17.00 (last entry is at 16.30).

Winter opening hours (1 Nov - 12 Feb):

10.00 - 16.00 (last entry is at 15.30).

Closed 25th Dec 2023 - 1st Jan 2024

Book your visit