Bletchley Park & Shuttleworth Collection - Sun 5th Oct 2025

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NEW SHORT BREAK FOR 2025

Visiting two destinations, both offering a fascinating glimpse in to our wartime history. These overnight breaks visiting attractions and enjoying comfortable hotel accommodation have proved to be hugely enjoyable.

In the past few years the story of the top secret code breaking facility at Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire has been thrust in to the public consciousness with a string of television dramas and a superb film starring Benedict Cumberbatch. IWM Duxford is home to an impressive collection of over two hundred aircraft as well as tanks, military vehicles and maritime craft.

The Shuttleworth Collection is one of the most prestigious and beautifully preserved collections of vintage aircraft and vehicles in the UK. Located in the picturesque grounds of Old Warden Park in Bedfordshire, this unique attraction offers an unforgettable experience for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. The Shuttleworth Collection boasts an extraordinary array of aircraft, cars, motorcycles, and engines, many of which are still in working condition. Marvel at legendary planes like the 1909 Blériot XI and the Supermarine Spitfire, each with its own fascinating story. Beyond the aircraft, explore a treasure trove of vintage vehicles, including early Edwardian cars and classic motorcycles, all meticulously restored to their original glory. The peaceful Swiss Garden, part of the estate, provides a serene setting for a relaxing stroll amidst nature.

Perfect for a family day out or a solo adventure, the Shuttleworth Collection offers interactive exhibits, guided tours, and hands-on workshops, making history engaging for all ages. The on-site Café Aviatrix serves delicious refreshments, ensuring a delightful visit from start to finish.

Whether you're an aviation aficionado or simply curious about the past, the Shuttleworth Collection promises an inspiring and educational experience. Don’t miss the chance to witness history take flight!

DAY 1

After being collected from your local pick point around 6.30/8.00am, there will be a comfort stop on route before we arrive at Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes for a visit to the famous WWII code breaking centre. Seeing one of the Enigma Machines, including the rare 'Abwehr G312', is undoubtedly a highlight of a busy day out at Bletchley Park, but there is much more than machines in a visit to this historic site. Check out the tales of spies and strategic deception. There are plenty of different activities and exhibitions, from wartime toys to working computers, a wartime mini cinema to an outstanding Churchill collection. Entrance included. Late afternoon we head to our excellent hotel near Rugby in Northamptonshire. 3 course evening dinner included with choice of menu.

DAY 2

Enjoy a delicious and extensive buffet breakfast before we depart the hotel. Arriving at The Shuttleworth Collection mid morning with plenty of time to explore the beautifully preserved collections of vintage aircraft and vehicles. Don't miss the famous Sopwith aircraft which were built by the Clayton and Shuttleworth company; Joseph Shuttleworth lived in the attractive Victorian House in the grounds. But there is much more of interest with vintage cars, motorcycles, and engines, many of which are still in working condition. The peaceful Swiss Garden, part of the estate, provides a serene setting for a relaxing stroll amidst nature. Walk through ornate ironwork gates into a delightful Regency and Victorian layered garden and discover a green and pleasant idyll. There’s even a pair of peacocks waiting to strut their stuff just for you! The on-site Runway Cafe serves delicious refreshments, ensuring a delightful visit from start to finish. We depart for home around 3.00pm. Arriving back in the local area around 6.30pm. Entrance price included. 

Meal plan - Dinner Bed & Breakfast

Holiday Inn Rugby-Northampton

Well located with easy access to the main road routes – great for an overnight stay away. Surrounded by open fields, so a pleasant outlook with a relaxing front terrace where you can enjoy a drink and a chat. 

Decorated throughout in a modern, up to date, stylish décor. It’s a very welcoming and comfortable hotel. After a busy day sightseeing, relax with a drink in the comfortable lounge bar before heading to dinner in Traders Restaurant. Choice for menu for dinner with 3 courses on offer.

Should time allow on your break the hotel also has its own superb leisure centre with large indoor swimming pool and gym. You may need to book a slot before arrival so please contact the hotel if you are interested.

In the morning, an extensive hot and cold buffet breakfast is served in the restaurant. The spacious bedrooms are modern and comfortably furnished with a contemporary style and offer en suite bathrooms, Flat screen TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Shower over bath or shower cubicles available – specify when booking. No lift – but ground rooms available – only 2 floors.