Following record numbers of visitors through their doors in the first half of the summer school holidays, the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop in Hampshire is already gearing up for a packed Autumn Season, with a wide array of events programmed to entice visitors new and old into the stunning surroundings of the Hayward Hall.
The Museum began its event series in earnest in 2022 and the past year has seen events including BBC Gardeners Question Time, An Evening with Lady Carnarvon and many more, achieving sell out audiences.
The new programme of events will commence with one of three lectures planned for the Autumn which particularly appeal to military enthusiasts and will see a return to the Museum by Glider Pilot Regiment expert Tony Bray. The lecture series has been a particular success for the Museum after being created during the pandemic lockdown. Lectures are live streamed from the Museum and have attracted audiences from around the world.
The popular Brick Event is back on the weekend of 23/24 September with the team from The Brick People returning to the Museum, to offer a wide range of LEGO® related activities. Visit the Museum and build super flying machines out of LEGO® bricks, take part in a speed build challenge, complete an anagram trail around the Museum and browse a wide range of models on display. There will also be a LEGO® Duplo® area for younger builders.
For October half term, the Museum will focus on ‘Creatures of the Night’ with some fantastic craft activities for children and the popular model making sessions. As a special treat, The Critter Clan will be at the Museum on Tuesday 24 October. Visitors will see nature brought to life with their amazing creatures from around the world and through their fun, educational and interactive display, be able to get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating species and learn about their vital role within our fragile eco system.
On 10 November, the Middle Wallop and Andover Military Wives Choir will perform in the Hayward Hall with a stunning Concert of Remembrance. The concert sold out in 2022 so customers are advised to book early for this very special event.
Two fabulous fairs are lined up for the weekend of the 25/26 November. On 25th, an array of local gift, craft and food providers will kick start the Christmas shopping period with the Museum’s annual Christmas Fair. Over thirty stall holders will be available to browse alongside the Museum’s popular gift shop. There will also be festive trails and craft activities on offer for children to enjoy. Sunday 26th November sees the staging of the Aircraft Enthusiasts Fair and Model Show when every nook and cranny of the Museum will be packed full of exhibitors and stall holders for enthusiasts to browse.
December sees the return of the very special family event ‘Santa’s Flying Visit’. On 2nd December, children will have the opportunity to meet and have a professional photo taken with Santa in the historic Scout helicopter, along with festive craft activities, trails and refreshments to keep families entertained.
To round off its festive programme, the Armed Forces Medical Band will stage a rip-roaring festive concert at the Museum on 9 December, a great opportunity to get into the festive spirit, enjoy some great music and have a wonderful singalong.
Chief Executive of the Army Flying Museum, Lucy Johnson said “We are thrilled to present another busy Autumn season of events here at the Museum and hope to attract lots more new visitors through our doors, not only to enjoy the events, but also to see more of the work we do as a charity in telling the story of Army Aviation.”
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.armyflying.com
