Stow Maries: Royal Flying Corps Living History

Don't you know there's a War on?

In its heyday, RFC Stow Maries - later, RAF Stow Maries - was a centre for early aviation and air defense, battling first Zeppelins and then fixed wing Heavy Bombers sent by Imperial Germany to attack England.

For all its operational life, until May 1919, its pilots and crew were airborne as much as they could be, protecting and patrolling the skies above Essex and the region.

Come along to learn all about what life was like for these intrepid sorts, their ground crew and the many other roles that worked so hard to keep the aircraft flying.

By meeting and chatting with our guests, the Lufberys RFC Living History Group, you can really immerse yourself in the dramatic history of Stow Maries!

Please note: this is NOT an air event.

We are also very happy to welcome our chums from the Wilkin & Sons (Tiptree) Museum!

Their Curator, Nick Wickenden, will be giving a talk to all tickets holders as part of their admission, while the team from Wilkin & Sons will be on site with their brilliant roadshow to offer a touch of something sweet.

Visitors that want to attend in WW1 period attire - please contact info@stowmaries.org.uk to qualify for reduced admission fees!

For just your standard admission fee, you get to enjoy all our historians have to show and tell, as well as our range of exciting exhibitions and tours.

This particular event will take only take on Sunday 15th June, as the site is closed to the public on Saturday 14th June 2025.

There are no Mess-Only admissions on Sunday 15th June.

Propeller Club Members can enjoy this event without any admission charge.

Image Credits: David Davies and Kevin Gribble

Nick Wickenden, above, will be presenting a talk entitled:

“The origins of Wilkin & Sons at Tiptree and two events in World War 1”

Nick was originally Curator at Chelmsford Museum and is now the Curator and Archivist for Wilkin & Sons. He will be talking about the history of the jam company in its 140th year and especially a close link to Stow Maries.

He will be ably supported by the team from Wilkin and Sons, who will have Dan and the Tiptree Tasting Gazebo on site to tempt you!

Note: Images of the Tiptree stand are indicative and not guarenteed to be a true representation.