The East Anglian Food & Craft Fayre returned to Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome on Saturday 26 April 2025, with a wide range of exciting hand-made products, adding to the buzz of a bright, sunny Saturday at the Museum.
Stalls ranged from crocheted soft toys and hand-made soap to fused glass and carefully crafted wooden boxes, all created by talented local artisans. Visitors were able to relax with a can of small-batch craft beer from Datum Attitude Brewery, which 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. Or for a different way to chill out, guests could find out about yoga and meditation with Maldon’s Zen Yoga.
The Airmen’s Mess café was buzzing with visitors enjoying hot lunches and delicious home-made cake, which could be enjoyed on the lawns thanks to the spring sunshine.
Ian Flint, Chief Executive Officer of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, comments:
“We were delighted by the turn-out to the East Anglian Food & Craft Fayre, which has become a regular fixture on our packed events calendar, helping us to raise vital funds for the Museum. The Airmen’s Mess café was doing roaring trade throughout the event, and I’d like to thank the hard-working volunteers who helped everything to run smoothly. Our next event is our ever-popular Wings & Wheels car and air show on Sunday 25 May – tickets are selling out fast, so don’t leave it too late.”
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.