Venue Description

A year-round visitor attraction in the heart of Bedfordshire, Old Warden aerodrome is one of the only remaining grass airfields in the country. Home to The Shuttleworth Collection, Swiss Garden, Shuttleworth House, and expansive parkland. Whether you’re an aircraft aficionado, horticulturalist, family, or simply looking for a unique experience right on your doorstep, Shuttleworth has something for everyone to enjoy. The Collection Honouring the legacy of our patron, Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth – a keen aviator, racing driver and horse racer – The Shuttleworth Collection is a treasure trove of airworthy vintage aircraft from 1909-1950, agricultural and steam exhibits, veteran vehicles, classic motorcycles, bicycles, carriages, and buses. Come and visit our engineering workshop to see the live work taking place on some of these stunning aircraft, before exploring six hangars full of aeronautic and vehicular history. Swiss Garden Step through ornate iron gates and discover the quiet idyll of Swiss Garden. Beautifully restored, this RHS partner garden is a unique example of a Regency Garden in the ‘Alpine’ style. Along the way you’ll find delightful quirky structures including our Indian Kiosk, Swiss Cottage, and even a Grotto filled with stained glass and climbing Wisteria. The Runway Café Refuel at The Runway Café – offering visitors an excellent seasonal menu of freshly made, locally sourced food and drink. Events & More Throughout the year, Shuttleworth hosts a range of events, including a spectacular summer season of air shows. The House is also home to various corporate events and is a hugely popular wedding venue. As an educational charity, we are proud to offer a range of learning opportunities to schools and colleges, and for visiting groups of 15+, we can tailor packages to suit your bespoke requirements. Shuttleworth is open to the public seven days a week including Bank Holidays (excluding selected dates of the festive period). Our daily admission ticket can be used multiple times for up to 30 days (excluding air show and event days).

Accessibility

We have plenty of open space, flat areas and ramps in the hangars. Drop a line to us if you'd like to book a wheelchair. Our large site has a central parking location, so there is always a bit of a walk to get to all our key attractions. Please make our team aware of your specific needs on arrival. Given that you can start your journey with us anywhere on the 60 acre site, our helpful team will endeavour to park you as close as possible. See our different area's accessibility below: The Collection: The Collection hangars have ramps throughout as well a generous sprinkling of seating. The hangar doors are kept open except in very inclement weather so it’s easy to get in and out. There are toilets, including an accessible toilet, in a central block midway through the hangars. Swiss Garden: The nine acre Swiss Garden has accessible paths throughout thanks to investment from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. There are seats throughout the Garden. There is a dedicated toilet block. Assistance dogs are permitted in the Garden. Visitor Centre and Café: Our warm and spacious visitor centre and café offers seating and toilets. Assistance dogs are permitted and there is a hearing loop within the Discovery Hub event space. Shuttleworth House: Access to Shuttleworth House is via 6 steps (without handrails). Due to the listed status of the building we are unable to install handrails. Please note Shuttleworth House is open on select days only.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://www.shuttleworth.org/visit/#disability

Toilets

There are purpose built disabled access toilets in the café and hangar toilets, with doors which are wide enough for wheelchair access.

Staff

Venue staff are welcoming and willing to assist wherever possible.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

Assistance dogs are welcome at Shuttleworth.

Other assistance dog facilities

Water bowls are provided outside the café.