Shuttleworth Collection - Image 1
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Shuttleworth Collection

4.7
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

Witness rare vintage aircraft fly and explore a stunning country estate with classic cars and beautiful gardens.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Flying Days

See vintage planes soar!

CrowdMedium
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Shuttleworth Collection - Image 1

Shuttleworth Collection

Best Time

Flying Days

See vintage planes soar!

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness rare vintage aircraft fly and explore a stunning country estate with classic cars and beautiful gardens.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"The aircraft collection is surely second to none. The best days out in the area."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check the Flying Schedule

Not all aircraft fly every day. Consult the Shuttleworth website for 'Flying Days' to maximize your visit. :calendar:

Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry, especially for airshows. Consider the 30-day return pass for great value. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Aircraft in Flight

Vintage Aircraft in Flight

Working Airfield

Witness rare and historic aircraft take to the skies, a truly breathtaking spectacle for aviation enthusiasts.

Instagram+4
Edwardian & Classic Cars

Edwardian & Classic Cars

Collection Hangars

Explore a stunning array of meticulously maintained vintage cars, from elegant Edwardian models to iconic classics.

Instagram
Beautiful Estate Gardens

Beautiful Estate Gardens

Shuttleworth Estate Gardens

Wander through picturesque landscaped gardens, complete with bridges, water features, and roaming peacocks.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Flights

While the Shuttleworth Collection boasts incredible vintage aircraft and cars year-round, catching them in action requires planning. Check their 'Flying Days' schedule online, as not all aircraft fly on every public opening. Airshows are popular, so book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and potential sell-outs. Reddit

Beyond the Aircraft: Estate Exploration

Shuttleworth is more than just a museum; it's a country estate. Allow ample time to explore the beautiful gardens, manor house (when open), and enjoy a picnic. The combination offers a full day out, making it great value for money. Instagram

Best Times

When
Flying Days
Why
See vintage planes soar!
Crowd
Medium
When
Airshow Weekends
Why
Full schedule of action.
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

UK’s Universal Studios park, vanishing robots, deluded couples and a war hero. It’s Bedford. #bedford in #bedfordshire #PlacesToVisit #ukcomedy #britishhumour #satire #LearnOnTikTok
@philc84
177.8K likes • 2.2M views

Check the Flying Schedule

Not all aircraft fly every day. Consult the Shuttleworth website for 'Flying Days' to maximize your visit. Reddit :calendar:

Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry, especially for airshows. Consider the 30-day return pass for great value. Reddit :ticket:

If you need a reminder to keep trying, meet Bedford #schwartzjampelsyndrome #rarediseaseawareness #buildforbeddy #warrior #fyp
@wonderfullifewithbedford
107.7K likes • 634.2K views
The very pretty De Havilland DH.88 Comet from the Shuttleworth Collection #DH88 #dh88comet #dehavilland #shuttleworth #gacss
turnnburnaviation
426 likes • 7.1K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the estate and hangars. :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy lunch amidst the beautiful grounds. Cafe options are available but can be pricey. Reddit :sandwich:

Livin’ my life in the fast lane…” …but make it vintage. These classic cars from the Shuttleworth Collection aren’t just for show—they’re built to move, and they do it in style. Set to “Glamorous” by Fergie because nothing says fast lane like a convoy of timeless legends. #shuttleworth #citroën #mg #austin #petrolhead #classiccars #motorgirl #carcollector #carcollection
motor_grl
29 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check the Flying Schedule

Not all aircraft fly every day. Consult the Shuttleworth website for 'Flying Days' to maximize your visit. Reddit :calendar:

Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry, especially for airshows. Consider the 30-day return pass for great value. Reddit :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the estate and hangars. :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy lunch amidst the beautiful grounds. Cafe options are available but can be pricey. Reddit :sandwich:

Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the charming gardens, Swiss cottage, and grotto. Peacocks are a delightful surprise! Reddit :peacock:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Shuttleworth Collection for its breathtaking display of vintage aircraft and cars, especially during 'Flying Days'. The beautiful estate gardens also add significant charm. However, some guests have reported less-than-ideal customer service at reception and found cafe prices to be high.

"We spent a lovely day here. What a special place. Full of interesting information. The Swiss Garden is stunning and very relaxing. The cafe provided some nice food but quite pricey. Nice little gift shop. Looking forward to returning for some of the 2026 events."

Caro Daniels

"We are so pleased to have found such a great day out so close to home. We have visited many aircraft museums, but feel we have all learned something new today.
Have to thank the wonderful volunteers who enriched our visit, especially the wonderful Corinne who went above and beyond to welcome and help everyone, especially our son.
The gardens are just breathtaking. We discovered our sons photography talent surrounded by nature and history.
Great value too.
We are already planning our next visit."

Marcia Lee

"Lovely place to visit for plane lovers! Didn't have have long to stay, but will be calling in again.
Has a cafe, the food order came quickly but a long wait for hot drinks despite only one person in front of us. The food had arrived at our table before we got back with 2 teas!!
The cafe was clean as well as the toilets."

Mandy Booth

What People Like

Incredible flying aircraft
Rare vintage planes
Beautiful estate gardens

What People Dislike

Inconsistent customer service
Overpriced cafe food

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Shuttleworth Collection is located in Old Warden, near Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. It's accessible by car via the A1 and local roads. There is ample free parking available on-site. For public transport, the nearest train station is Biggleswade, from which you can take a taxi or pre-booked transport to the Collection. TikTok

Yes, Shuttleworth is a feasible day trip from London. It's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, depending on traffic. Taking the train to Biggleswade and then a taxi is also an option, though it requires more coordination. TikTok

Shuttleworth offers plenty of free parking for visitors. It's conveniently located close to the entrance, making it easy to access the hangars and grounds. Reddit

Assistance dogs are welcome at the Shuttleworth Collection. However, due to the presence of live aircraft and animals, other pets are generally not permitted. It's always best to check their official website for the most current policy. Reddit

The nearest train station is Biggleswade. From there, you would need to arrange a taxi or other local transport to reach the Shuttleworth Collection, as direct bus routes are limited. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but a standard adult ticket is around £17.50. A key benefit is that your ticket often grants unlimited return access for 30 days, excluding special event days, offering excellent value. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for airshow days or popular 'Flying Days'. This ensures entry and can sometimes offer a slight discount. Reddit

Opening hours vary seasonally and by day. It's crucial to check the Shuttleworth Collection's official website for the most up-to-date opening times and to confirm if it's a 'Flying Day' or a special event. Reddit

Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. Family tickets are also often offered. Check the Shuttleworth website for current pricing and any applicable concessions. Reddit

Your ticket typically includes access to the hangars with vintage aircraft and vehicles, the estate gardens, and the manor house (when open). 'Flying Days' allow you to see aircraft in action, which is a major draw. Reddit

🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience

The collection features a remarkable array of vintage aircraft, including Spitfires and WWI types, as well as classic cars and commercial vehicles. The estate also boasts beautiful gardens and a manor house. InstagramReddit+3

Yes, Shuttleworth is famous for its 'Flying Days' where many of its vintage aircraft are flown. It's essential to check their schedule online as not all aircraft fly on every public opening. Reddit

Absolutely! Families will enjoy the combination of aircraft, cars, and the expansive gardens. The 'Flying Days' are particularly exciting for children. Reddit

Shuttleworth hosts various events throughout the year, including airshows, themed days, and 'Flying Proms'. These events often feature unique displays and entertainment. Check their website for the event calendar. Reddit

While the hangars are generally accessible, some areas of the estate and gardens may present challenges for those with mobility issues. One reviewer noted it was not particularly 'blind friendly'. It's advisable to contact Shuttleworth directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a cafe on-site offering refreshments, classic lunch options, and snacks. Visitors have reported that scones can be a bit stale and extra charges apply for jam and cream. Reddit

Yes, bringing a picnic is a popular option at Shuttleworth. The grounds are extensive and offer lovely spots to enjoy your own food, which can be a more budget-friendly choice. Reddit

Some visitors have found the cafe offerings to be overpriced, particularly for items like scones. It's worth considering a picnic to manage costs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The airfield offers fantastic opportunities for capturing aircraft in flight, especially during 'Flying Days' and airshows. The gardens also provide scenic backdrops for both nature and vehicle photography. Instagram+1

Yes, you can get quite close to the aircraft in the hangars, allowing for detailed shots. During 'Flying Days', you can photograph them as they taxi, take off, and land. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted inside the hangars, allowing you to capture the impressive static displays of aircraft and vehicles. Instagram

Shuttleworth is ideal for aviation photography, classic car photography, and landscape photography within its beautiful estate grounds. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shuttleworth is a fantastic destination for families. The 'Flying Days' are a huge hit with children, offering the excitement of seeing real vintage planes in the air. Beyond the aircraft, the expansive gardens provide space for kids to run around, and the peacocks are always a fun surprise. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to keep costs down and allow for flexible meal breaks. While the cafe is available, a picnic in the beautiful grounds can be a more relaxed and budget-friendly option. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover exploring the hangars and gardens. Reddit

✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts

For true aviation buffs, Shuttleworth is a pilgrimage site. The collection boasts an unparalleled array of rare and historic aircraft, many of which are maintained in flying condition. Witnessing a Spitfire, a Sea Hurricane, or WWI types take to the skies is an unparalleled experience. Instagram+5

Pay close attention to the 'Flying Days' schedule and consider attending one of their airshows for the most comprehensive aerial displays. The opportunity to see these warbirds and vintage planes in action is what sets Shuttleworth apart. Don't miss the chance to learn about their history and the engineering marvels they represent. Reddit

🚗 Classic Car Lovers

While famous for its aircraft, Shuttleworth also houses an impressive collection of vintage and Edwardian cars. These vehicles are meticulously maintained and often displayed alongside the aircraft, offering a broader look at early 20th-century transport. Instagram

Explore the hangars to admire the craftsmanship and design of these automotive legends. You might even catch some of them in action during special events or 'Flying Days', adding another layer of historical immersion to your visit. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of 'Flying Days'

The Shuttleworth Collection is renowned for its 'Flying Days', where a significant portion of its incredible collection of vintage aircraft are brought to life. These aren't just static displays; these are working aircraft that take to the skies, offering a rare and thrilling spectacle. From the roar of a Spitfire to the elegance of WWI biplanes, witnessing these machines in their natural element is an unforgettable experience. Instagram+5

It's crucial to check the Shuttleworth website for their 'Flying Days' schedule before planning your visit. Not every aircraft flies on every public opening, and the specific types of aircraft flying can vary. This ensures you don't miss out on the aerial action you're hoping to see. The combination of the historic aircraft, the working airfield, and the beautiful estate setting makes these flying displays truly special. Reddit

Beyond the main flying displays, you might also catch demonstrations of vintage cars or even old buses offering rides around the estate, adding to the immersive historical atmosphere. The dedication of the engineers and volunteers to keep these machines airworthy is evident and adds a layer of appreciation for the history on display. InstagramReddit

A Country Estate Experience

Shuttleworth is far more than just a collection of vehicles; it's a sprawling country estate offering a holistic visitor experience. The beautifully maintained gardens are a highlight, featuring picturesque bridges, water features, and even a charming Swiss cottage and grotto. Keep an eye out for the resident peacocks, which often roam freely, adding a touch of wild charm to the manicured landscape. Reddit

The estate also includes parts of a historic manor house that are sometimes open to the public, offering a glimpse into the past. This combination of aviation history, automotive heritage, and natural beauty makes Shuttleworth a destination that can easily fill a full day. Visitors often remark on how much there is to see and do beyond the main hangars, making it a great outing for all ages. Reddit

For those looking to make a day of it, packing a picnic is a popular and recommended option. There are many scenic spots to enjoy your lunch amidst the grounds. While there is a cafe, some visitors have found the offerings to be a bit pricey and not always the freshest. Reddit

The People Behind the Planes

The Shuttleworth Collection thrives thanks to the dedication of its engineers and volunteers. These individuals are passionate about preserving aviation history and ensuring that these magnificent machines remain airworthy. You might even have the chance to speak with an engineer who can share insights into the intricate workings of a Spitfire or other vintage aircraft. Instagram

While one reviewer noted a lack of volunteers actively explaining exhibits compared to other museums, the presence of these experts is invaluable for those who seek deeper knowledge. Their commitment is what allows Shuttleworth to offer such unique 'Flying Days'. Reddit

It's worth noting that visitor experiences with staff can vary. While most visitors have positive interactions, one review highlighted a less-than-welcoming reception at the front desk, particularly for a visitor with a disability. It's a reminder that while the collection itself is breathtaking, the overall visitor experience is a combination of the exhibits and the human element. Reddit

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