Historically Significant
Brighton City Airport (also known as Shoreham) is the oldest airfield still operating in the country – with the first recorded flight taking place in 1910. The airport boasts a historically significant Grade II Listed hangar along with the beautiful Main Terminal Building, which was opened on 13th June 1936 under the name ‘Brighton Hove and Worthing Joint Municipal Airport’. With its original Art Deco features, the Main Terminal Building still stands proud today. Read Our History to learn all about the fascinating history of Brighton City Airport and its early beginnings of how it came to be!
The Museum
Visit the museum and relive the airport’s fascinating 100-year history – from the earliest pioneers of flying, through the action of the two world wars, up to its role today as a leading general aviation centre.
Tours of the Airport
Aviation enthusiasts can delve into the fascinating past of the UK’s oldest licensed airport with a guided tour of these wonderful historic buildings from one of our expert volunteers.
Book a tour to learn about how the Airport was utilised during the Second World War and post-war period. The tour lasts around an hour and offers an insight into the construction of the airport and its history and includes a visit to our on-site museum. You can also find out about the current airport and its operation by visiting the airport fire station and get up close to some of our resident aircraft in our historical hangar. The tour offers fantastic insight and wonderful photo opportunities.
Tours cost £5.00 per adult and £3.00 per child (including schools).
To book a tour, please contact the visitor centre directly:
T: 01273 467351
The Shoreham Airport Collection
(Visitor Centre)
The airport visitor centre is located inside the main terminal building, on the ground floor. It is manned by volunteers and funded by donations. Visit for:
- The airport museum
- Booking guided tours of the airport
- Sales of aviation books
- Information about the airport and its occupiers
Usual opening hours are shown below, however, it is advisable to get in touch in advance of making a special journey.
Visitor Centre Opening Hours
If you have any questions, please contact The Shoreham Airport Collection directly:
T: 01273 467351
We Need You!
We are always eager to hear from people keen to join our friendly team of volunteers, who help run the Shoreham Airport Collection. If this is something you would like to get involved with, please get in touch.
Shoreham Airport Community Memorial
In front of the Main Terminal building there is a memorial dedicated to remembering those that gave their lives in past conflicts and pays tribute to those who are connected or made a significant contribution to the Airport. Everyone is invited to use the area for a moment of reflection and quietly remember those who will never be forgotten. The site is open to the public during the Airport opening hours.
