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With strong aviation links, Farnborough sits in the north of Hampshire, not far from the Surrey border. Often overlooked at a tourist destination, there’s actually a lot more than meets the eye in Farnborough.
Here, we take a look at our top 10 picks for days out and things to do in Farnborough:
Farnborough International Air Show
By far the biggest event in Farnborough’s diary, the biennial Farnborough International Air Show. Although a predominantly trade show for people in the aviation industry, the last day of the show opens to the public. For 2024, this will be on Friday 26 July.
FAST Museum
The FAST Museum offers a fascinating insight into aviation history. The museum building dates from 1908 and was originally built as the headquarters of the Royal Balloon School.
The full-scale replica of the Cody Flyer - British Army Aeroplane No.1A is housed in the Cody Pavilion situated in the Museum grounds and historic aircraft can be seen in the grounds surrounding the museum.
Look out for special tours of the Wind Tunnels. Saved from demolition by FAST and given listed status, these magnificent buildings were at the forefront of aerodynamic research and development from the early 1930s until 1994. Added to this, you can book an exclusive tour of The Farnborough Centrifuge, which was at the forefront of research and training by the RAF Institute of Aviation Medicine. The Centrifuge is not open to the public unless via one of these tours.
St Michael’s Abbey
Farnborough’s Abbey is a small community which has housed Benedictine monks since 1895. It is possible to view the Abbey on a guided tour. During the summer months, the Abbey opens to some traditional organ recitals, played on the famous Cavaillé-Coll organ.
High Score Arcade
If you aren’t sure to do with teenagers when you are in Farnborough, then a popular choice is a visit to High Score Arcade. Book a session and enjoy free play on the various arcade games.
Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre
Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre runs a comprehensive programme of events throughout the year, many of which are open to the public. The British Motor Show is just one of the events that’s held here, plus look out for craft shows, ideal home shows and much more.
TeamSport Go Karting
Whether you are looking for something different for a children’s party or are just after a fun activity, TeamSport’s Go Karting Centre at Farnborough offers an exhilarating day out.
Whizz your way around the 500m track in e-karts, getting up to 40mph in the process.
Challenge your friends and family to see who’s got what it takes to make the podium!
Aldershot Military Museum
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Located just south of Farnborough, Aldershot Military Museum tells the story of daily life for both soldier and civilian in the local area since 1854.
Explore the site, admire the variety of tanks and vehicles, join in with the hands-on activities and let your kids take on the assault course challenge. Look out for a wide range of events held here throughout the year.
Aviator
If you are looking for somewhere to stay when in the Farnborough area, then aviation themed and appropriately named, Aviator has to be up there.
Innately stylish, Aviator binds the timeless glamour of aviation with seductive interiors and ultimate comfort.
The Crab & Anchor
One of Farnborough’s most popular dining spots, The Crab & Anchor offers a wide choice of food, whether dining indoors or in the outside patio area.
Southwood Woodland
Explore the 80 acres of Southwood Woodland in Farnborough. The woodland is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation and is popular with the locals.
The woods offer a great spot for walking and cycling. In spring be sure to look out for beautiful bluebells adorning the woodland floor.
Find out more about Farnborough
Find places to stay in and around Farnborough
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Taking place 22-26 July 2024, the ground-breaking event will see global aerospace and aviation leaders return to Hampshire, United Kingdom, for five days of unrivalled opportunities to discover the latest pioneering technology and engineering, announce historic partnerships, build connections and work towards the cumulative sustainable aerospace vision as an industry.
The FAST Museum presents a selection from the FAST collection in the setting of a historic listed building.
How do fighter pilots cope with the effects of High G? What did 1950’s technology look like? Come and visit the Farnborough Centrifuge and all will be revealed! The RAF Institute of Aviation Medicine human centrifuge, almost unchanged from when it was first commissioned in 1955, played a central role in aviation medicine research during its 64-year life (1955-2019).
Farnborough International runs a diverse range of consumer exhibitions, some of the world’s most prestigious aerospace and business events, including the famous British Motor Show and Farnborough International Airshow.
Housed in the only surviving brick-built barrack blocks left in Aldershot, Aldershot Military Museum tells the story of daily life for both soldier and civilian in the town since 1854.
High Score is a free-play amusement centre, simply pay your admission fee and the games are free for the whole session. High Score Farnborough is packed with games to either reminisce or play for the first time. From old school classics including Space Invaders and PAC-man to pinball, sports games, and the newest arcade fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Aviator was created by TAG Group as a hotel for elite travellers moving between London and the world's leading destinations. Located in Farnborough, Hampshire, Aviator opened in 2008 as one of the most striking design hotels in recent times.
