Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is the largest surviving World War One aerodrome in the world, and a great place for a family day out! Located between Chelmsford and Maldon in the beautiful Essex countryside, the aerodrome has a unique history spanning over a century.
Now an accredited Museum, with over 20 Grade II* listed listed buildings, a trip to Stow is a journey back in time to when brave World War One pilots defended the skies of Britain against Zeppelins and Gotha bombers. You can visit the Pilot's Ready Room and learn about the courageous crew of the Royal Flying Corps 37 Squadron, who were the first to be based onsite in 1916 and became part of the new Royal Air Force in 1918.
Expert tour guides will take you around two large hangars with aircraft from the era, telling you stories that bring the war to life, then you can wander around the fascinating exhibition rooms. Children will love the vintage aircraft pedal planes and flight simulators!
New for 2025, Feeding the Nation: Fighting Without Flying tells the site’s story as a World War Two farm, detailing the work of the Women’s Land Army, and even how evacuated children were drafted in to help with food production. There’s also a nature trail where families might spot the rare animals, birds and insects that frequent the site.
The Airmen’s Mess café, in the atmospheric original mess building, serves food, from hearty cooked breakfasts to cream teas, and don’t forget to visit the gift shop. On non-event days, visitors are welcome to visit the café and gift shop without charge.
Normal opening hours are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am to 4pm, with a programme of special events including Family Nature Days, Living History and The Stow Maries Air Show (23rd August).
www.stowmaries.org.uk