Group trip reflections: Geoff Allen on a visit to Aerospace Bristol

Our one-and-a-half hour journey from to Bristol was uneventful and after checking in at an impressive reception at the attraction we were given a short introductory talk before guests began a free flow tour.

The first stop had to be a refuel in the spacious and accommodating cafe where an ample choice of refreshments were available.

It was evident that this was a place for both families and older people with nostalgic memories of the era. Three of our older guests were even armed with their own memorabilia to show to other guests. One had an outward and return Concorde ticket signed by the flight crew!

It was also apparent why the venue was a finalist for the Best Museum Award at the 2019 Group Leisure & Travel Awards.

Starting in the early 1900s, guests were taken through two world wars. They explored the vital role of aircraft in these global conflicts, through the drama and technological advances of the space race and on to the modern day, and discovered the latest technologies of today’s aerospace industry. The exhibition was well laid out and the presentation of the displays, some interactive, was excellent. There were hundreds of exhibits from small model to helicopters, rockets and missiles, with guests exploring the galleries and discovering the local history.

The highlight for most guests was of course the Concorde Hangar, a separate building and short walk from the main exhibition area. Guests were able to step aboard the last Concorde and the stunning centrepiece of the visit which was Concorde Alpha Foxtrot: the last of the iconic supersonic passenger jets to be built and the last to fly. It actually flew for the first time from the airfield which also hosted its return and last flight home!

There was a spectacular projection show of three short films displayed onto the side of the aircraft telling its remarkable history before guests stepped aboard to view the cockpit (overwhelming!). The exhibition gallery showcased a fascinating collection of memorabilia including a pilot’s uniform and a model of the flight deck. Capable of crossing the Atlantic in under three hours, Concorde cruised at over twice the speed of sound and reached an altitude of 60,000 ft. Her passengers would marvel at the curvature of the Earth and look up at a blue-black sky, as they travelled at and sipped Champagne on the edge of space.

Before departure our exciting visit ended when guests took advantage of a very enthusiastic Nose Cone Talk on the gallery overlooking the majestic aircraft. I am sure Aerospace Bristol is committed to providing an exceptional experience for everyone!

What Geoff’s group thought…

“What a brilliant day. One of the most informative and fascinating museums we have visited with Travallen Travel. The highlight of the trip was the chance to see and actually go in Concorde, such an iconic plane and part of this country’s history. Thank you, this was a real gem of a trip and well organised.” - Joyce and Tony Kohler.

”Very informative history of early flight with very impressive exhibits of restored aircraft, helicopters and vehicles. But the star of the show is of course Concorde, which we were able to go on board and view internally then admire externally from the viewing gallery, and up close from ground level. What an amazing piece of engineering and what a great day out, thank you so much.” - Dave and Pat.