We have a very special week available for any aviation adorers or WW2 enthusiasts in August 2026!
Imagine staying in our luxurious 18th-century thatched cottage in Dorset, Great Britain – just a short walk away, you’ll find yourself overlooking the Cranborne Chase – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region, with its rolling hills and ancient woodlands, has long been a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a connection to England’s rich past.
As gorgeous as this is year-round, with the entire landscape changing with the seasons, it especially comes alive for the annual August-time Golden Age of Aviation Air Show.
The skies above are filled with the sights and sounds of the incredible WW2 planes flying over the church and the green fields in the distance, bringing the past to the present in the most thrilling way, as they whizz and zoom above, hailing from the event located at Compton Abbas Airfield. This is just two miles from Well Cottage, and promises a weekend filled with riveting aerial displays and vintage aircraft, celebrating the legacy of aviation history.
Compton Abbas Airfield itself is a gem, perched atop a hill with stunning views over Shaftesbury and beyond. Visitors can enjoy a fantastic excursion day out, guided by personal chauffeur and guide, Nathan – while taking in all of the beautiful historic aircraft on display.
For those with a passion for history, aviation, or simply the allure of the English countryside, this event offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the ambiance of a bygone era, in the most spectacular way.
It’s such a delight that every year we make sure we secure the best seats possible for the stunning skyline performance, marked by the beauty and buzz of the aircraft and their graceful maneuvers over the scenic backdrop of Cranborne Chase. It’s just too incredible to miss!
If you book this week, we also offer a Limited Edition World War II and Aviation Experience that coincides with this event, for an all-encompassing experience of a lifetime. This tailor-made package for one group of up to 6 guests, includes platinum tickets to the air show and offers the flexibility to choose additional excursions and activities, whether focused on World War II history or other interests.
For more details on this exclusive 2026 summer opportunity, including pricing and availability, reach out to us right now!
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And if you find history as fascinating as we do, you need to know about some of the other amazing excursion options we offer!
Tank Museum, Bovington (Dorset)
Home to one of the world’s finest collections of tanks, this museum offers an insight into the history of armoured warfare. You’ll find exhibits on tanks from World War I through to modern-day vehicles, including those used during the D-Day landings.
The D-Day Story, Portsmouth (Hampshire)
A museum dedicated to the story of the D-Day landings, one of the most significant events of World War II. The exhibits cover personal stories, artefacts, and multimedia displays that bring to life the sacrifices made during the landings.
The Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth (Hampshire)
This site is home to historic ships, including the HMS Victory (Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar) and the HMS Warrior. The dockyard also offers exhibits about the Royal Navy’s role in both World Wars.
Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton (Somerset)
A museum dedicated to the history of naval aviation, this site features aircraft from the First and Second World Wars, including the famous British aircraft carriers that played pivotal roles in the conflicts.
Bath Blitz Tour (Bath, Somerset)
Take a guided tour of Bath, which endured bombing raids during the Blitz in World War II. These tours highlight the damage to the city and share stories of its recovery and resilience. Bath Blitz tours are available throughout the year via the Mayor of Bath’s Honorary Guides initiative as well as private tours. We’ll arrange it!
Southwick House, Portsmouth (Hampshire)
Southwick House was the headquarters for the planning of the D-Day landings. It is now a part of the D-Day Story experience, with tours and exhibits that explore the strategic decisions made here.
Wilton House (Wiltshire)
A historic house that played a role during World War I. The estate was used as a military hospital, and there are connections to wartime figures in British history. The house itself offers a glimpse into British aristocratic life during the war.
Castletown D-Day Centre (Dorset) & Jurassic Coast
The Isle of Portland was a key departure site for the D-Day landings at Normandy in the final months of World War II. Castletown D-Day Centre is an authentic recreation of the wartime dock at this location that saw troops embark on their perilous journey to liberate Europe. The nearby Jurassic Coast area is also known for its coastal defenses and wartime installations.
Tyneham Village (Dorset)
Visit the ghost village of Tyneham, abandoned during World War II to make way for military training. The village remains a poignant reminder of the past, and the area surrounding it offers scenic walking paths through the Dorset countryside.
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Add any of the above to your Golden Age of WW2 Aviation experience or choose from our huge range of other incredible excursions – and we’ll make it happen!
We are already so looking forward to hosting the lucky guests that secure this special week!
