The collection was founded in 1928 by aviator Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth. While flying a Fairey Battle at night on 2 August 1940, Shuttleworth fatally crashed. His mother, in 1944, formed the Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth Remembrance Trust “for the teaching of the science and practice of aviation and of afforestation and agriculture.”

Since then, the Shuttleworth exists to promote training and discovery in the knowledge and skills of agriculture and of aviation and automotive technology. The ambition of the Shuttleworth is to be recognized as a world-class centre for skills and experiences. It has world-class heritage; a secure rural estate; a strong College partner; an unbroken century of preserving unique heritage aviation skills; a loyal supporter base; and passionate staff and volunteers.

In addition to the aircraft, the collection houses a number of vintage and veteran cars. Events include model-flying days, and once a year, there is a special flying day for schools in the area.

The Shuttleworth Collection puts an emphasis on restoring as many aircraft as possible to flying condition, in line with the founder’s original intention. There are typically about ten air shows per year, including evening displays and an annual Flying Proms event, which offer the opportunity to see aircraft which in many cases are the last of their type to survive, let alone existing in flyable condition.

Shuttleworth is also the perfect place for a family day out. People can go and enjoy their amazing gardens, follow the woodland sculpture trail and discover a unique collection of vintage aircraft, all set in 875 acres of parkland at Old Warden Park.