Popular Craft Fayre Returns to Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome

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SATURDAY 26 APRIL will see a range of exciting creators at the East Anglian Food & Craft Fayre adding to the great day out at this accredited Museum. Stalls ranging from crocheted soft toys and hand-made soap to fused glass and speciality gin will offer a curated collection of unique, locally made crafts and gifts, at the same time as raising funds for the survival of the Museum.

As well as the usual superb lunches and delicious home-made cakes at The Airmen’s Mess café, visitors this Saturday will also be able to sit outside in the sunshine, enjoying small-batch craft beer from Datum Attitude Brewery. This local favourite specialises in aviation-themed ales, including its renowned "Stow Patrol" Extra Pale Ale - inspired by the site’s history as the largest surviving Great War aerodrome in the world.

The Craft Fayre is open from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 26 April, and standard admission includes entry to the whole Museum, including aircraft hangars, interactives, exhibitions and The Airmen’s Mess café. A reduced admission is available for those only visiting the Craft Fayre and/or the café (no free entry to the café during this event).

Ian Flint, Chief Executive Officer of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, comments:

"We are delighted to see the return of the East Anglian Food & Craft Fayre - it has become a regular fixture on our packed events calendar. It has attracted new supporters, which is key to our future. This popular fayre not only supports local designer-makers and small businesses, but it also raises valuable funds for the museum."

All proceeds from opening to the public and all events directly fund the ongoing work to preserve and protect Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome and support its battle for survival.

The museum opens to the public every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Private bookings are available on other days. To plan your visit on a regular opening day, go to www.stowmaries.org.uk. For details of other exciting events at the museum in 2025, see www.stowmaries.org.uk/events.

Situated between Chelmsford and Maldon in the Essex countryside, the site hosts the largest collection of Royal Flying Corps buildings in the world. It was the base of 37 (Home Defence) Squadron Royal Flying Corps, which was tasked to protect London from raids by German Zeppelin airships and Gotha heavy bombers.

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Hackman’s Lane, Purleigh CM3 6RN is open from 10am until 4pm, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.