The Shuttleworth Collection in Old Warden is a unique collection of veteran vehicles and vintage aircraft dating from 1909 – 1950. A fascinating working collection, it’s all thanks to Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth, a racing driver and aviator who had a passion for finding and restoring old cars and aircraft during the 1930s.

Today, the collection is housed in six huge hangars (yes, six!), and features classic motorcycles, bicycles and carriages of all shapes and sizes plus the oldest flying aircraft in the world. That’s right, almost every aircraft in the collection is capable of taking to the Bedfordshire skies (you can see them flying during the summer season of air shows). There’s also an engineering workshop so you can watch the Shuttleworth engineers maintaining and restoring these old treasures.

The beautifully restored Swiss Garden is tucked behind the hangars and is a delightful example of a Regency garden in the ‘Alpine’ style. As you explore the idyllic nine acres you’ll find wrought-iron bridges, sweeping lawns and 13 surprising structures including an Indian Kiosk, a dreamy Swiss Cottage, and a delightful Grotto filled with stained glass and climbing Wisteria. You might even meet the resident peacocks.

And finally, you can refuel with a drink and tasty bite-to-eat at The Runway Café.

Shuttleworth is open year-round, seven days a week, and hosts a range of events, including spectacular airshows during the summer months, as well as seasonal fairs, trails, workshops and tours. Their daily admission ticket can be used multiple times for up to 30 days (excluding air show and event days).

Photo credits: Darren Harbar, Phil Chaplin