Air shows and military displays in Shuttleworth 2026 calendar

Shuttleworth’s collection of historic aircraft has announced its calendar of events for next year, with seven themed air shows set to take place, including the return of the two-day Festival of Flight.

Based in Bedfordshire and home to a nine-acre Regency garden, Victorian mansion house, Grade II listed Old Warden Park and the expansive wider estate and the pride of the estate, Shuttleworth features six hangars filled with historic aircraft, bicycles and carriages.

Marc Boult, head of visitor operations at Shuttleworth, said: “After months of planning, we’re delighted to be sharing our new dates and themes for 2026.

“We’ve got all of the Shuttleworth staples our visitors have come to love, along with a new theme plus some exciting developments to existing events. 2026 looks set to be another spectacular season so be sure to make the most of our early bird discount and look forward to your summer with us next year.”

All events in the 2026 season include entry to Shuttleworth’s other attractions, including Shuttleworth House and the Swiss Garden. All aircraft appearances are subject to weather and serviceability.

2026 flying season

The 2026 season will get under way on Sunday 10th May with the Season Premiere Air Show. Visitors will see aircraft from Shuttleworth’s historic collection taking to the skies for flying routines alongside visiting aircraft. The day will also feature ground activities including educational discovery zones, a funfair and live music.

Sunday 30th May will see afternoon and evening vehicle flying displays take place as part of the Wings & Wheels Air Show. Highlights include a range of vehicles on display and heritage machinery.

Shuttleworth’s Festival of Flight returns on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June, featuring visiting aircraft alongside Shuttleworth’s entire serviceable collection of aircraft taking to the skies. On the ground, visitors can enjoy attractions including fun fair rides, stunt shows, parades, interactive discovery zones plus Shuttleworth House and Swiss Garden to explore. Visitors can enhance their outing with flightline tours at an aditional cost per person, allowing small groups to go onto the airfield to see aircraft up close. 

On 25th July the Summer Air Show will take place with visiting aircraft and the collection taking flight, along with opportunities to ride on a vintage bus and take part in free activities, including the fun fair. 

Flying Proms air show takes place on Saturday 15th August featuring flying formations to the sound of iconic film soundtracks, including James Bond and E.T.

Shuttleworth’s collection of retired military vehicles return to service on Saturday 29th August for the Military Show. Visitors can watch military aircraft in flight and walk through the military camp comprised of vehicles, re-enactments and machinery. 

The 2026 season closes on 4th October with the Race Day Air Show, celebrating racing skill and passion through high-speed demonstrations of Edwardian racing vehicles, including the Shuttleworth Sprint race.

Group bookings

All events in the 2026 air show calendar offer group rates. Shuttleworth is open to group visits year-round, providing opportunities to explore the collection, Swiss Garden and Edwardian house. 

Group benefits available include free on-site parking, including coaches and a free hot drink and entry for coach drivers. Guided tours are included with the Shuttleworth Explorer+ package.