The Museum of Berkshire Aviation is located in Woodley, a town in Berkshire, England. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich aviation history of Berkshire, particularly the contributions made by Woodley Aerodrome and the people who worked there. The museum focuses on the area’s pivotal role in the development of civil and military aviation, from the early days of flight through to more modern achievements.
Museum of Berkshire Aviation
http://museumofberkshireaviation.co.uk
+44 118 944 8089
April – October
- Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 10:30 – 17:00
November – March
- Wednesday 10:30 – 16:00
- Sunday 12:00 – 16:00
Admission fee
Gift shop
Aircraft collection
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BAPC.233 BGA1288/465 G-ALMN XG883/773 XJ389 G-APWA L6906 G-AMEW MS902 G-MIOO – XP849 |
Broburn Wanderlust EON Olympia 465 EON AP-7 Primary Mk.1 Fairey Gannet T.5 Fairey Jet Gyrodine Handley Page Herald 100 Miles M.14A Hawk Trainer 3 Miles Marathon Mk.60 Miles Martinet TT.1 Miles Student M.100 ML Aviation Sprite Westland Scout AH.1 |
Overview Museum of Berkshire Aviation:
- Location: Woodley, Berkshire, England.
- Historical Significance: Woodley Aerodrome has a long history in aviation, serving as an important site for aircraft manufacturing and testing. The area was home to British aircraft manufacturers like De Havilland and Auster Aircraft, which produced iconic aircraft.
- Focus: The museum covers the history of aviation in Berkshire, with particular attention to the Woodley Aerodrome, as well as the aircraft and engineers that helped shape the region’s aviation legacy.
Key Exhibits and Highlights:
1. Woodley Aerodrome History:
- The museum provides a detailed history of Woodley Aerodrome, which was once a thriving site for aircraft production and testing.
- Visitors can learn about the airfield’s role during both World War II and the post-war years, as well as the aircraft manufactured there.
- The museum highlights important events and milestones in the aerodrome’s history, such as early aircraft testing and the role of Woodley Aerodrome in wartime aviation.
2. Aircraft Collection:
- The museum houses a variety of historic aircraft, many of which were built or tested at Woodley Aerodrome. Some of the key aircraft include:
- Auster AOP 6: A light aircraft used for reconnaissance by the British Army during and after WWII. The museum has examples of these aircraft, which were integral to the Army Air Corps.
- De Havilland Tiger Moth: A famous biplane used for training during WWII and the pre-war years, showcasing the early days of British aviation.
- De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide: A passenger aircraft used in the 1930s and early 1940s, notable for its sleek design and role in civil aviation.
- Auster J/5 Autocar: Another example of a British light aircraft, the Auster J/5 was designed for general aviation and could be used in military roles as well.
3. The Legacy of De Havilland:
- De Havilland Aircraft Company was a key player in British aviation, and the museum focuses on the history of the company, especially its Woodley factory.
- The museum offers insight into the De Havilland DH.88 Comet, one of the first aircraft built for speed and endurance, which was part of British aviation’s pre-WWII successes.
- The De Havilland Vampire, a British jet fighter, is also featured, along with other aircraft designed by the company.
4. Aircraft Engines and Engineering:
- The museum has a collection of aircraft engines and engineering exhibits that showcase the technical innovations of the era.
- This includes displays of the aircraft engine designs that powered many of the planes built at Woodley Aerodrome, as well as information on aircraft manufacturing techniques used at the time.
5. The Role of Woodley in Wartime:
- During WWII, Woodley Aerodrome played a significant role in aircraft production for the military, particularly for the Royal Air Force.
- The museum focuses on the wartime aircraft that were built and tested at the aerodrome, as well as the role of Woodley in contributing to the war effort.
6. Photographs and Memorabilia:
- The museum holds an impressive collection of photographs, blueprints, models, and memorabilia from the aviation history of the region.
- Visitors can see original photographs of aircraft in production and on test flights at Woodley Aerodrome, as well as personal stories from the workers and aviators who contributed to the area’s aviation legacy.
Significance:
The Museum of Berkshire Aviation is a vital institution for preserving the rich history of aviation in Berkshire and particularly the Woodley Aerodrome site. It offers visitors a chance to explore the technological and engineering advancements that took place at one of Britain’s key aviation hubs, as well as the legacy of the aviation pioneers who worked there.
Photos Rob Vogelaar