Middle Wallop,
Stockbridge,
Hampshire,
SO20 8DY,
United Kingdom
The Army Flying Museum is a specialized aviation museum located at Middle Wallop, Hampshire, England, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of British Army aviation. Housed in the historic hangars of the former RAF Middle Wallop, the museum features a collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of Army aviation from its early days to the present. The museum offers visitors a unique and immersive experience, celebrating the bravery, innovation, and achievements of British Army aviators.
The image shows a staged interior of a 1940s-themed house. Two life-like figures wearing blue-grey uniforms with brass buttons and decorative chest patches stand in the room. In the foreground, a green cabinet opened to reveal a turntable record player sits on a small platform, with the lid propped up and a turntable visible. A green-framed window with dusty glass panels is set into the brick wall behind them, and the brickwork runs across the scene. On the left, another figure is partially visible, looking down as if handling or carrying something off-frame. In the right foreground, a figure stands facing slightly left with hands positioned near the waist. The overall setting uses period-appropriate colours and textures—brick, worn metal, and utilitarian furnishings—to recreate a lived-in wartime or post-war
The image shows a staged interior of a 1940s-themed house. Two life-like figures wearing blue-grey uniforms with brass buttons and decorative chest patches stand in the room. In the foreground, a green cabinet opened to reveal a turntable record player sits on a small platform, with the lid propped up and a turntable visible. A green-framed window with dusty glass panels is set into the brick wall behind them, and the brickwork runs across the scene. On the left, another figure is partially visible, looking down as if handling or carrying something off-frame. In the right foreground, a figure stands facing slightly left with hands positioned near the waist. The overall setting uses period-appropriate colours and textures—brick, worn metal, and utilitarian furnishings—to recreate a lived-in wartime or post-war
The Army Flying Museum was established in 1984 to preserve and celebrate the history of British Army aviation. The museum is located at Middle Wallop, a site with a rich aviation heritage that dates back to World War I, when it was used as a training base for the Royal Flying Corps (RFC). During World War II, Middle Wallop served as a key RAF station, playing a vital role in the defense of the UK and the success of Allied operations.
The museum is housed in the historic hangars of the former RAF Middle Wallop, which were built in the 1930s and 1940s to support the growing needs of the RAF. After the closure of RAF Middle Wallop in 1958, the site was repurposed for Army aviation, becoming home to the Army Air Corps (AAC). The Army Flying Museum was created to honor the legacy of Army aviation and to educate the public about its history and achievements.
Today, the museum stands as a testament to the bravery and innovation of British Army aviators. It preserves the stories of those who served in Army aviation, from the early days of flight to the modern era, and it celebrates the role of the Army Air Corps in defending the UK and supporting its allies.
Aircraft Collection
Historic Aircraft – The museum features a collection of over 30 aircraft, including helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These aircraft span the history of Army aviation, from the early 20th century to the present day.
Notable Aircraft – Some of the notable aircraft on display include:
Westland Lynx – A versatile military helicopter used by the Army Air Corps for reconnaissance, transport, and attack missions.
Westland Gazelle – A light helicopter used for observation, liaison, and training.
Agusta A109 – A twin-engine helicopter used for utility and transport roles.
de Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk – A training aircraft used by the Army Air Corps to prepare new pilots.
Taylorcraft Auster – A light aircraft used for observation and liaison during World War II.
Experimental and Prototype Aircraft – The museum also features experimental and prototype aircraft, showcasing the innovation and technological advancements in Army aviation.
Exhibits and Displays
Army Aviation History – The museum’s exhibits tell the story of Army aviation, from its early days in World War I to its modern role in global operations. Visitors can learn about the evolution of Army aviation, the challenges faced by aviators, and the impact of aviation on warfare.
The Army Air Corps (AAC) – A dedicated exhibit on the Army Air Corps, the primary aviation arm of the British Army. The exhibit explores the history, missions, and achievements of the AAC, as well as its role in modern conflicts.
Personal Stories – The museum features personal stories and artifacts from Army aviators, including uniforms, medals, photographs, and letters. These exhibits bring to life the human side of Army aviation and honor the bravery of those who served.
Interactive Displays – The museum includes interactive displays that allow visitors to engage with the history of Army aviation in a hands-on way. These displays often feature simulators, videos, and touchscreen exhibits.
The Army Flying Museum is located at Middle Wallop, close to Andover, in Hampshire. The Museum tells the story of British Army Flying from the early days of military ballooning to the modern Army Air Corps. The collection was started in 1946 at RAF Andover but later moved to Middle Wallop and first opened to the public in 1974.
In 1984, the Museum moved from a location “behind the wire” to a new, purpose-build hangar which is located on the edge of an active airfield. The Museum has since been extended twice more and now comprises two large aircraft halls (the Prince Michael of Kent Hall and the Hayward Hall) a learning centre, a 1940s house display, a play park and conference facilities.
The collection covers the five main branches of Army Aviation: Royal Engineers (1878 – 1912), The Royal Flying Corps (1912-1918), Air Observation Post Squadrons (1941 – 1957), the Glider Pilot Regiment (1942 – 1957) and the current Army Air Corps (1957- to date). Over 40 aircraft can be seen in the Museum. These range from a First World War biplane to a HueyCobra attack helicopter plus an example of every Allied glider used operationally during the Second World War.
Highlights of the collection include a Sopwith Pup – an example of a single-seat fighter introduced in 1916 -and a Lynx helicopter which broke the world speed record in 1972 by achieving an average speed of 199.92 miles per hour (321.74 km per hour) in a 100km closed circuit. It was also the first British helicopter ever to complete a barrel roll.
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