Brooklands Museum

[Dorsetman]

Nestled amidst the tranquil Surrey countryside in Weybridge, Brooklands is a name synonymous with speed, innovation, and the pioneering spirit of human endeavor. For over a century, this historic site has played a pivotal role in shaping the world of transportation, from the adrenaline-fueled world of motorsport to the awe-inspiring realm of aviation.

 

Alongside its motor racing heritage, Brooklands also played a significant role in the development of aviation. In 1910, the track was extended to include an airfield, and soon it became a hub for aircraft manufacturing and testing. During World War I, Brooklands was requisitioned by the British government and played a crucial role in the production of military aircraft.

After the war, Brooklands continued to be a center for aviation innovation. In 1930, the first commercial air service in the UK was launched from Brooklands, with flights to Paris and Brussels. The airfield also hosted the first public demonstration of a jet engine in 1930.

The decline of motor racing at Brooklands began in the 1930s, as increased road traffic and the development of safer tracks made the circuit less suitable for high-speed racing. The track was finally closed in 1939, just before the outbreak of World War II.

Despite its closure, Brooklands' legacy lives on. In 1991, the Brooklands Museum was opened to showcase the rich history of motor racing and aviation at the site. The museum houses an impressive collection of vehicles, aircraft, and memorabilia, charting the evolution of transportation from the early days of motoring and aviation to the present day.

Brooklands remains a place of inspiration, where visitors can connect with the passion and ingenuity that drove the pioneers of speed and flight. The site stands as a testament to the human spirit's ability to push boundaries and achieve the seemingly impossible.

Nowadays, the Museum is open to the public with a fantastic variety of transport, planes, motorbikes, racing cars, buses, aeroplanes to keep you occupied. You really should visit for the day and experience the exhibits up close and personal.

My personal favourite of the day was the Vickers VC10 and one a few there which you can actually sit in the cockpit and just wander through the aircraft, including one that belonged to the Sultan of Oman.

[Surreybloke]

This one is a local one to me and have been there so many times and still manage to find something I havent seen before

[Dorsetman]

Definitely one of my favourite 'go to places' for a great day out.
Superb museum, old race track, Mercedes-Benz World - all in one place!

Best to allow a whole day to see everything that is there without rushing around trying to fit it all in