Discover Alconbury Weald’s military past in special history talk
- 27.01.2026
Residents and visitors are invited to join the Airfield Research Group (ARG) for a heritage presentation exploring the remarkable military history of Alconbury Weald.
The event takes place at 10.30am on Saturday, 14 February in The Pavilion at Alconbury Weald and will explore the site’s evolution from wartime airfield to Cold War strategic base.
ARG Chair and USAF veteran Jeff Hawley will take the audience on a virtual journey around the former RAF Alconbury, bringing to life the airfield’s pivotal role during the Second World War and throughout the Cold War era. Using historic locations as a backdrop, the presentation will examine how the base operated and why it became internationally significant.
Highlights will include the site’s historic control towers used to coordinate complex operations, iconic hangars that supported vital aircraft maintenance and repairs, and the Hush House – a noise-suppressing facility used for engine testing.
The presentation will also provide insights into the different roles played by the British and American Air Forces based at the airfield, and discuss some of the aircraft operated from the site, including the TR1 high-altitude spy plane.
“Alconbury airfield has a story that reaches far beyond the local area. Events like this allow us to share the experiences of those who served here, explain how the buildings functioned, and ensure that this remarkable history remains part of the community’s future.”
Today, Alconbury Weald’s military past continues to shape the development of the site. Listed buildings are being carefully conserved and re-used, historic records and artefacts preserved, and former airfield features reflected in the landscape. Examples of this in the first phase of the development include Garland Park that follows the route of a former taxiway and the refurbished World War II Watch Office, which is now home to The Watch Office Bar & Kitchen.
Looking ahead, the Heritage Area coming forward as part of Phase 3 of Alconbury Weald will include four listed reinforced hangars built for the TR1 spy plane, along with the highly specialised Avionics Building. Designed to withstand chemical and biological attack, the Avionics Building is the only one of its kind in Europe and will sit alongside the future Runway Park dedicated to the commemoration and interpretation of the development’s heritage.
“Alconbury Weald has a strong sense of community, and its history is a big part of what makes the place special. We really enjoy meeting residents and visitors, sharing stories about the airfield and helping people understand how the past has shaped the place they live in and visit today.”
Attendees will also have an opportunity to be among the first to sign up for the popular Avionics Building tour at this year’s Heritage Open Day in September.
All are welcome. No booking is required, but spaces are limited, so early arrival is advised to avoid disappointment.
