Farnborough combines local history with the development of aviation: the Heritage Trails explore themes such as Farnborough Street, North Camp and Cove Village, while museums and tours focus on wind tunnels, aviation technology and spaceflight. Southwood Country Park also offers circular routes for walking and cycling. You can focus your stay on history, aviation, or a mix of both.
Local history on the Farnborough Heritage Trails
The Farnborough Heritage Trails explore the history of Farnborough Street, aviation, North Camp, St Peter’s and Cove Village. At the points of interest, the trails app displays audio stories, images and facts. This lets you explore the themes in more depth at individual stops, rather than just getting a general overview of the town.
The Farnborough Street Trail introduces the history of the town’s early pottery industry. St Peter’s Parish Church is another specific historical landmark: according to Rushmoor, it is considered the oldest building in Farnborough. Those interested in local history can therefore explore both a particular industry and a historically significant building.
Aviation history in collections and wind tunnels
The FAST Museum houses aircraft and aircraft models, satellites, flight simulators and other material relating to the Royal Aircraft Establishment. Its notable exhibits include a working model of the Man Rated Centrifuge. It was used to study the effects of G-forces on the human body and to develop anti-G suits. The museum also displays a working model of a Göttingen wind tunnel and models from wind tunnel tests.
The Cody Pavilion houses a full-scale replica of Samuel Cody’s Flyer. The Farnborough Air Sciences Museum building also has its own connection to aviation: it was originally built as an Army Balloon School. The National Aerospace Library focuses on the development of aeronautics, aviation and space technology. Everyone is welcome to consult its extensive collection.
The Wind Tunnels Tour gives visitors a close-up look at two preserved wind tunnels. The 24 Foot Wind Tunnel in Farnborough opened in 1935 and operated until 1994. If you plan to take the tour, check current booking options in advance.
Tours and timings
The crypt of the Abbey Church of St Michael serves as the mausoleum of Napoleon III, the Prince Imperial and Empress Eugénie. Saint Michael’s Abbey offers a tour of the Abbey Church and the Imperial Crypt every Saturday at 3 pm. No advance booking is required; the tour lasts about an hour. As tour arrangements may change, check the schedule before your visit.
The National Aerospace Library’s regular tour lasts 90 minutes. It includes a presentation and time to browse the collection. In terms of planning, the tours therefore have different durations: about an hour for the Saturday tour at the Abbey and an hour and a half for the regular library tour. The library information refers to a group tour.
Circular routes, events and getting around
Southwood Country Park has around 5 km of circular routes designed for walking and cycling. This offers a different way to experience Farnborough from visiting museums or taking a tour: the focus here is on the park’s paths and exploring them on foot or by bike.
The Farnborough International Airshow takes place every two years. Its public day, Pioneers of Tomorrow, features hands-on activities, interactive displays and flying demonstrations. As the programme may change, check the specific event dates and programme details before planning your trip.
For directions to the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre: Farnborough Main station is 1.5 miles away; the taxi journey takes five minutes. Transport arrangements may vary on event days.
Discover more destinations: Buriton, Tadley, Whitehill, Netley Marsh, Hordle, Litchfield, Clanfield, Bransgore
For the wider travel overview: Hampshire.
