Museum Of Berkshire Aviation
The Museum of Berkshire Aviation is a fascinating place worth exploring if you're in or around Reading.
It depicts aviation history through aircraft, engines, priceless archives and a fantastic pictorial record.
Once the centre of a thriving aircraft industry, this quiet corner of the county was alive with engineers, designers and pilots.
Here at Easthampstead Park Hotel, we love suggesting the museum to our guests who want to discover something intriguing and local in Berkshire.
Read on to discover what makes this facility so special!
When Is The Museum of Berkshire Aviation Open?
Opening Times: Selected Saturdays and Wednesdays throughout the year from 10AM-3PM.
As the museum is run by volunteers, it's important to check current opening times before travelling.
What To Expect At The Museum of Berkshire Aviation
As a visitor, you can expect to see a full scale aircraft including the Magister trainer, Handley Page aircraft built and tested locally, engines and components exhibited along detailed display panels, archives documenting aviation in Berkshire and a fascinating pictorial timeline demonstrating the development of aviation.
Aircraft highlights include the Miles Student, the Westland Scout, the Fairey Jet Gyrodyne, the Gannet and even the Mohawk.
The museum also references the Herald and other historic designs connected to the site.
Some aircraft, such as G-APWA, link directly to the airfield’s proud past in Winnersh and Woodley.
Tips for When you Explore the Museum of Berkshire Aviation
A few practical tips for when you visit:
- Check opening times carefully before travelling.
- Allow 1-2 hours to explore comfortably.
- Groups can be catered for outside normal opening hours by arrangement.
- Schools and other groups benefit from the museum’s active educational programme.
- Bring your camera as the fascinating pictorial displays are worth revisiting.
We hope you enjoyed learning about the museum. For more ideas of things to do nearby, check out our article on the, "Wokingham Party In The Park."
FAQs Related To The Museum of Berkshire Aviation
How much is a ticket for the Museum of Berkshire Aviation?
Ticket price varies depending on age and group size.
It is best to check the official website of the Museum of Berkshire Aviation to stay up to date.
What is the historic significance of Woodley Airfield and Berkshire’s contribution to aviation history?
Woodley Airfield was once the centre of a thriving aircraft manufacturing community.
During the 20th century, Miles and Handley Page aircraft were built at Woodley, placing Berkshire firmly on the aviation map.
The site also became known for trainer aircraft that supported RAF pilots during wartime.
Prince Philip himself had connections to aviation training in the UK reflecting how important sites like this were to national development.
Can schools and groups visit the museum?
Yes. The museum welcomes group visits and runs an active educational programme for schools and other groups.
Special arrangements can sometimes be made outside normal opening hours.
Where exactly is the Museum of Berkshire Aviation located?
The museum is located near Reading in Berkshire on the historic site of Woodley Airfield.