Make a date in your diaries as Saturday 11 July is set to be a very special day at the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop, as not one, but five Spitfires will make an appearance at the Museum’s annual fundraising event Wallop Wheels and Wings, the most Spitfires to be seen at the historic airfield in over 25 years and marking the important role Spitfires based at Middle Wallop played in the Second World War.
Not only will visitors have the opportunity to see a fly-past from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire but will also see a stunning display from the Rolls-Royce Heritage Flight Spitfire PR Mk.XIX. In addition, not one but two Spitfires will fly into the event, one of which is the Spitfire Mk.912, without doubt one of the most historic Spitfires still flying today. If that wasn’t enough, visitors will have the chance to get up close to Spitfire Mk.IX LZ842 in the main body of the showground, the engineering project of Mark Bennett for over 15 years.
With 2026 marking the 90th anniversary of the first Spitfire flight, this is a fitting tribute at this very popular annual event which is the major fundraiser for the Museum. The event is even more crucial to the future of the Museum this year, following an unexpected three-week closure in February due to a power outage.
The Wheels element of the event is very strong again this year as car enthusiasts will have the opportunity to view over 400 classic and supercars. Motorcycle enthusiasts will also not be disappointed, with over 100 bikes on display, along with a very special display from sponsors Andover Norton International. The Museum is also thrilled to be welcoming vintage vehicles from the AA Heritage Fleet this year, with a very special display.
The event is a great day out for the whole family with so much to see and do. Activities for children are in abundance with laser tag, circus skills, craft activities, little racers and a pit stop challenge all included in the ticket price. The Discovery Den at the event is also a great hub for young minds interested in all things Science, Technology and Engineering.
With Living History groups, a Speaker’s Tent, Shopping Village and of course and number of air displays, it is the perfect event to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day.
Chief Executive of the Museum Lucy Johnson said: “Wallop Wheels and Wings is the Army Flying Museum’s main fundraising event and a chance to showcase some of the best vintage aircraft, cars and motorbikes on the beautiful site of Middle Wallop airfield. We are so excited to be celebrating the 90th anniversary of the first Spitfire flight as part of the event and cannot thank the pilots enough for their contribution. It will be a joy to see these iconic and much loved aircraft landing at Middle Wallop once again.”
All tickets purchased in advance of the event come with a free annual pass for the Museum valid from 12 July and with all school holiday activities included in the annual pass, this gives great value for money for local families to enjoy and support this great local Museum. Ticket prices increase from Thursday 9th July, so be sure to book nice and early to get great discounts on tickets.
