What's Here:

Built in 1928, Barton Aerodrome was Britain's first municipal airport. It remains a largely unspoilt example of the airfields of the 1930s. A small museum section at the front of the Visitor Centre features many interesting documents and displays which tell the history of the original Manchester Airport. The Bomber Command Association also has a display here. The Centre gives good views of movements on the active airfield. Visitors can also go onto the first landing of the Control Tower to view the aerodrome and watch various aircraft land and take off. (Please take note of the warning signs). Fun flights are on offer for a person to either fly in a helicopter or a Tiger Moth (K6847). Next to the Centre is the Police helicopter section.

Tours of the airfield and hangars can be arranged by contacting bvc@lancsaeroclub.co.uk or writing to The Visitor Centre Manager, Lancashire Aero Club, Barton Aerodrome, Eccles, Manchester. M30 7SA. (See website below for more details).

Location:

Barton Aerodrome is located close to the A57, south of the M62/M63 junction at Eccles, in western Greater Manchester. See this location on Microsoft Live Search Maps

Opening Hours:

Open Saturdays and Sundays 11.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Admission:

Admission is free.

Amenities:

A small souvenir and coffee shop are at the front of the Centre, overlooking the airfield.

Contacts:

Barton Aviation Heritage Society, Barton Aerodrome, Eccles, Manchester, M30 7SA. Airfield website: www.bartonaerodrome.co.uk.

Barton Control Tower (photo, Phillip Evans)	Inside the Visitor Centre (photo, Phillip Evans)
Items on display (photo, Phillip Evans)	Wartime memorabilia (photo, Phillip Evans)

List of Aircraft Exhibits:

The Cyril Barton display (photo, Phillip Evans)	RAF memorabilia (photo, Phillip Evans)