Shuttleworth Collection

For a great day out with the kids in Bedfordshire, take time to visit The Shuttleworth Collection in Biggleswade. This aeronautical and automotive museum has a wealth of old and well-preserved aircraft, which will fascinate everyone in the family.

The collection was started in 1928 by the aviator Richard Shuttleworth, who was interested in historic aircraft and on finding old abandoned aircraft, would restore them. Visitors will learn about the history of flight from the early 1900s to the 1950s and see a collection of historic aeroplanes and vehicles such as cars, motorcycles and horse-drawn carriages.

Guided educational tours covering aspects of the school syllabus can be arranged. Another attraction at Shuttleworth is the Swiss Garden, an early 19th century garden and example of the Regency trend of creating landscapes in an alpine setting.

The garden has a grotto and fernery, an Indian pavilion and two ponds and residents include peacocks and ducks. Children’s workshops and activity trails take place in the school holidays. On the same site is the Jubilee Play Area, suitable for children age 12 and under. There is a wealth of innovative and exciting playground equipment to try out here, which has been designed for inclusive play whatever a child’s physical ability.

Close by there is open space for picnics and games. While the Play Area is free to use most of the year, on event days there is a charge, so check out the website for details of these. Many special events are hosted and regular air displays are held throughout the year. There are also restaurant facilities, a visitor centre and shop.