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Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome and its collection

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
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Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is the largest surviving World War One aerodrome in the world and an accredited Museum. Located between Chelmsford and Maldon, in the Essex countryside near Purleigh, the aerodrome has more than 20 Grade II listed buildings on site that house permanent and temporary exhibitions. The aerodrome dates from 1916, when it was home to the Royal Flying Corps 37 Squadron, whose pilots defended the country from Zeppelins and Gotha bombers, later becoming the RAF. Tour guides take visitors around two large hangars with aircraft from the era, then visitors are free to wander around the exhibition rooms. In 2025, the Museum also has an exhibition about the site’s World War Two history as a farm. Feeding the Nation: Fighting Without Flying features objects and documents from World War Two, highlighting farming, the work of the Women’s Land Army, and how evacuated children and Prisoners of War were sometimes drafted in to help with food production. The Museum has family-friendly features such as vintage aircraft pedal planes and flight simulators, and a nature trail. There's a gift shop, book shop and The Airmen’s Mess café, serving breakfast, lunch and snacks.

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ENStow Maries WW1 Aerodrome

Science & Technology Science & Technology History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Aviation War Industrial heritage Local

#181 Science & Technology in England #31 Aviation museums in England #159 Industrial & heritage museums in England #31 Local museums in England #103 War museums in England #80 Aviation museums in Europe #70 Local museums in Europe #32 Aviation museums in United Kingdom #189 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #37 Local museums in United Kingdom #133 War museums in United Kingdom

#181 Science & Technology in England #31 Aviation museums in England #159 Industrial & heritage museums in England #31 Local museums in England #103 War museums in England #80 Aviation museums in Europe #70 Local museums in Europe #32 Aviation museums in United Kingdom #189 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #37 Local museums in United Kingdom #133 War museums in United Kingdom

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Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
Hackmans Lane
CM3 6RN Purleigh

Images of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome

Visitor information Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday
10:00 – 16:00
Saturday
10:00 – 16:00
Sunday
10:00 – 16:00

Occasional closures for private events. See website for dates

More opening hours

Admission

0 – 5Free
6 – 15£9.00
65+£9.00
Adults£12.00

Group Ticket (2 x Adult 2 x Young Person) - £40
Carers (one adult accompanying a reliant fee-paying disabled visitor) - FREE
English Heritage Members: 2-for-1 on regular adult tickets on non-event days only (Both adults must be members)
Currently serving members of His Majesty's Armed Forces, and one guest, will receive free entry, on non-event days, upon production of an ID card.

NB These prices are for non-event days only. Event entry prices vary.

More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Parking
Coffee
Restaurant
Child-friendly
Audio tour

Location & Map

Hackmans Lane, Purleigh

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome have been found.

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome Reviews

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome in Purleigh, England, offers visitors a glimpse into World War I aviation history. The site, a former Royal Flying Corps airfield, has been carefully preserved and restored. Visitors appreciate the authentic atmosphere and the well-maintained aircraft and buildings from the period. The museum provides informative displays and exhibits that detail the lives of the servicemen and women who were stationed there during the Great War.

    Many reviewers commend the knowledgeable and passionate volunteers who bring the history to life through their guided tours and talks. The airfield's relatively untouched state since WWI adds to its historical value and appeal. Some visitors note that the museum offers a more personal and intimate experience compared to larger, more commercialized aviation museums.

    On the downside, a few reviewers mention that the site can feel a bit rough around the edges, with some areas still undergoing restoration. Some visitors find the location somewhat remote and suggest checking opening times before visiting, as they can be limited. A small number of reviewers also mention that the museum might not be as engaging for younger children or those without a specific interest in WWI aviation history.

    Overall, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is generally well-regarded for its historical significance, dedicated volunteers, and authentic preservation of WWI aviation heritage. It offers a rewarding experience for history enthusiasts and those interested in early 20th-century military aviation.

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