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Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome

4.7
·697 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore a remarkably preserved WWI aerodrome, brought to life by passionate volunteers. Discover original buildings, replica aircraft, and experience ...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends & Event Days

Experience flight events & living history

CrowdMedium
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BE2E on the flightline.

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome

Best Time

Weekends & Event Days

Experience flight events & living history

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a remarkably preserved WWI aerodrome, brought to life by passionate volunteers. Discover original buildings, replica aircraft, and experience living history.

4.7
(697 reviews)

"Volunteers are so welcoming and the museum is excellent. A brilliant day out!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Their free tours offer invaluable insights into the aerodrome's history.

✈️ Check Event Schedule

Special flight events and living history weekends offer the most dynamic experience. Plan your visit around these!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Restored WWI Buildings

Restored WWI Buildings

RAF Operations Buildings

Step back in time exploring original buildings that housed WWI pilots and ground crew. A truly authentic glimpse into the past.

Replica Aircraft Hangars

Replica Aircraft Hangars

Aircraft Hangars

Marvel at meticulously crafted replica WWI aircraft, offering a tangible connection to the dawn of aerial combat.

The Mess Hall Dining

The Mess Hall Dining

The Mess

Enjoy a meal in a unique RAF mess hall atmosphere, offering delicious food and a taste of wartime camaraderie.

Flight Events & Air Displays

Flight Events & Air Displays

Aerodrome Airfield

Witness the magic of vintage aircraft taking to the skies during special flight events and air displays.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Living History

Stow Maries is a living museum brought to life by passionate volunteers. Arrive ready to engage; their guided tours are highly recommended for a deep dive into WWI aviation history. Check their events calendar for special flight days and living history weekends for the most immersive experience.

Plan for the Weather

As an outdoor aerodrome, weather plays a big role. Overcast days can actually be great for viewing aircraft without glare, and the site is dog and child-friendly, making it a good option in various conditions. Dress in layers and be prepared for the elements.

Best Times

When
Weekends & Event Days
Why
Experience flight events & living history
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter exploration, dedicated tours
Crowd
Low
When
Overcast Days
Why
Better for viewing aircraft
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Such incredibly insightful advice from the In Flint, CEO of Stow Maries, Great War Aerodrome. In this episode we cover so many areas regarding taking on and managing any restoration type project. Whether it’s a private, commercial or charity project, the experience and wisdom that Ian imparts is incredibly helpful. #talkingconservation #heritageconservation #buildingconservation #historicbuild...
talking.conservation
9 likes • 268 views

🎯 Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Their free tours offer invaluable insights into the aerodrome's history. Reddit

✈️ Check Event Schedule

Special flight events and living history weekends offer the most dynamic experience. Plan your visit around these! Reddit

Wings and Wheels event at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, thank you for invite, what a remarkable place, well worth a visit #stowaero37
essexhighsheriff
1 likes • 45 views
Always acting the fool! #shot #musket #stowmariesgreatwaraerodrome #renactment #reenactment #essexregiment #musketgun #pewpew
4ubykirsty
21 likes • 1.3K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the aerodrome and hangars. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends along! Stow Maries is a dog-friendly site, making it a great outing for the whole family. Reddit

I went with my CanSat team this morning to launch our model satellite in a rocket! We launched from Stow Maries Great War aerodrome in Essex, and we successfully deployed the parachute and read the data (atmospheric pressure, temperature, and background gamma radiation) from the can as it landed. All mission objetives were accomplished, and the team will receive an Industrial Cadets Silver Award f...
_watch.the.skies_
19 likes • 360 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Their free tours offer invaluable insights into the aerodrome's history. Reddit

✈️ Check Event Schedule

Special flight events and living history weekends offer the most dynamic experience. Plan your visit around these! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the aerodrome and hangars. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends along! Stow Maries is a dog-friendly site, making it a great outing for the whole family. Reddit

♿️ Accessible Exploration

The site offers good access for wheelchair users, ensuring everyone can enjoy the historical experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(697 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Stow Maries for its authentic WWI atmosphere, brought to life by incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable volunteers. The restored buildings, replica aircraft, and the unique dining experience at The Mess are major highlights. While busy during events, the site is well-managed and offers a deeply engaging historical journey.

"Hidden gem!
While not on the scale of the likes of Duxford and Hendon, this is a unique site and must for aviation / history enthusiasts. My friends and I visited on a Friday afternoon. Ample parking was available close to the entrance, where we were welcomed by some of the friendly volunteer staff, who provided a brief overview of the aerodrome. After paying the full entrance fee (£12) we spent some time in the museum section, which provided valuable insight to the history of the site and it's role in the defence of London during WWI. We then enjoyed a wholesome lunch in the Airmen's Mess, before joining one of the regular free guided tours, which provided even greater insight to the aircraft, buildings and personnel associated with this historic site. First me, a very worthwhile visit, and a special mention to all the volunteer staff who keep this place alive."

Geoff Patch

"A brilliant day. Volunteers are so welcoming and the museum is excellent. It was a Flight Event, so pretty busy, but catering facilities coped well. The air displays were excellent...on an overcast day, you see more of the planes as you're not squinting in bright sunshine. The in/out for the car park was well managed too.
Great to see the last airworthy Fairey Swordfish, both on the ground and later airborne."

John Witchell

"Attended the Living History Weekend at Stow Maries Aerodrome today and it was brilliant. This was our first visit to Stow Maries, even though we live nearby, but it won't be our last. Our guide, Tim, was very knowledgeable and it was obvious that this place has a special place in his heart. There is so much WW1 history here. It is dog and child friendly and has good access for wheelchair users. Thoroughly good day out."

Donna Flack

What People Like

Passionate and knowledgeable volunteers
Authentic WWI atmosphere
Replica aircraft and hangars

What People Dislike

Can be busy during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Stow Maries is located in Essex, UK. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common method. The aerodrome has well-managed car parking for visitors. Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available at the aerodrome, and it's managed well, even during busy event days. Reddit

Information on direct public transport links can be sparse. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider a taxi service from the nearest train station if you're not driving.

The aerodrome is spread out, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. Guided tours are highly recommended for an overview. Reddit

Follow local signage for Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome. It's a distinct historical site, so navigation should be straightforward once you're in the vicinity.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the museum exhibits and hangars typically requires a ticket. However, you can visit the Mess for food and drink without paying an entry fee. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially on event days. It's best to check the official Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Yes, free guided tours are offered by enthusiastic volunteers and are highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the site's history. Reddit

Yes, weekdays offer a quieter experience, though special events and flight displays are more common on weekends. Check the schedule for specific weekday openings. Reddit

Information on child admission fees can vary. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the aerodrome directly for current pricing details.

🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience

You can explore restored WWI operations buildings, hangars with replica aircraft, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a preserved aerodrome. Special flight events are a major draw. Reddit

During special flight events and air displays, you can see vintage aircraft, including the airworthy Fairey Swordfish, take to the skies. Reddit

Absolutely! Stow Maries is child-friendly, offering an engaging and educational experience for younger visitors. Reddit

Yes, Stow Maries is a dog-friendly aerodrome, so you can bring your canine companions along for the visit. Reddit

The aerodrome is designed with good access for wheelchair users, making it a welcoming destination for all visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Mess offers a fantastic dining experience in an authentic RAF mess hall setting, serving a good menu with options like roast dinners and jacket potatoes. Reddit

Visitors often praise the food at The Mess for being delicious and good value for money, making it a recommended spot for lunch. Reddit

No, you can visit The Mess for food and drinks without paying the general admission fee for the museum exhibits. Reddit

The Mess offers a varied menu, with popular choices including roast dinners and jacket potatoes, catering to different tastes. Reddit

While specific menu details can change, The Mess typically offers a range of dishes, and it's always a good idea to inquire about vegetarian options upon arrival.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the historic buildings, replica aircraft in the hangars, and the unique atmosphere of the Mess. Flight events offer dynamic aerial photography. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the aerodrome for personal use. Be mindful of any specific restrictions in certain areas.

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light. Overcast days can provide even lighting for aircraft photography without harsh shadows. Reddit

Absolutely! Flight displays are a highlight for photographers. Be prepared for fast-moving subjects and consider a telephoto lens. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at active aerodromes and historical sites. It's essential to check Stow Maries' specific drone policy before flying.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Stow Maries is a fantastic destination for families. It's dog-friendly Reddit and offers a unique educational experience that can capture children's imaginations. The replica aircraft in the hangars are a big hit, and the open spaces of the aerodrome are great for kids to explore. The Mess provides a relaxed environment for meals, and the volunteers are often happy to engage with younger visitors, sharing stories about the aerodrome's past. Consider visiting during a special event for added excitement. Reddit

✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts

For anyone passionate about aviation, Stow Maries is a must-visit. The opportunity to see restored WWI buildings and replica aircraft up close is unparalleled. The chance to witness vintage aircraft in flight during special events is a major draw. The knowledgeable volunteers provide in-depth historical context, making it an incredibly rewarding experience for those who appreciate the history of flight. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs

History lovers will be captivated by the authenticity of Stow Maries. The preserved buildings and the detailed narratives from the volunteers offer a deep dive into life on a WWI aerodrome. It's a chance to connect with a significant period of history in a setting that feels remarkably untouched by time. The guided tours are essential for understanding the full historical significance of the site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of WWI Aviation

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is a remarkably preserved site, offering a tangible connection to the early days of military aviation. Unlike many other historical sites that are rebuilt or heavily modernized, Stow Maries retains much of its original fabric. This includes the RAF operations buildings, which have been carefully restored by dedicated volunteers. Walking through these structures, you can almost feel the presence of the pilots and ground crew who served here during World War I. The authenticity of the site is a major draw for history enthusiasts and aviation buffs alike. Reddit

The aerodrome's significance lies in its role as one of the few remaining WWI RFC/RAF stations in the UK. It was established in 1915 and played a crucial role in defending Britain from aerial attack. Today, the site is managed by the Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome Trust, a charity dedicated to preserving and interpreting its history. Their work ensures that future generations can learn from and appreciate this important piece of aviation heritage. The commitment of the volunteers is evident in every corner of the aerodrome, making it a truly special place to visit. Reddit

Experiencing the Aerodrome Today

A visit to Stow Maries is an immersive experience, largely thanks to the passionate volunteers who bring the site to life. They offer free guided tours that are consistently praised for their depth of knowledge and enthusiasm. These tours are the best way to understand the daily routines, the challenges faced by pilots, and the historical context of the aerodrome. Beyond the buildings, the hangars house meticulously crafted replica aircraft, giving visitors a close-up look at the machines that defined early aerial warfare. Seeing these planes, some of which are even airworthy, is a highlight for many. Reddit

For a truly memorable visit, try to time your trip with one of their special events, such as flight days or living history weekends. These events often feature air displays where you can witness vintage aircraft, including the impressive Fairey Swordfish, take to the skies. The atmosphere during these events is electric, combining historical reenactments with the thrill of flight. Even if you don't catch a special event, the on-site Mess provides a unique dining experience. Eating in what was once the officers' mess offers a taste of the past, with good food and a distinctive ambiance. Reddit

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