Wings and Wheels 2018 Highlights

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2026

Recently I was invited to Wings and Wheels; an event that brings all things aerial with all things automotive. It takes place over the last bank holiday weekend of August each year, at Dunsfold Aerodrome based in Cranleigh, United Kingdom. For those of you that don’t know it’s where the Top Gear test track is based.

How long has it been going for?

Quite some time. More specifically, it has been running since 2005 and originally started out as a one day event attracting 5,000 visitors. Over time, the event has become increasingly popular, generating a footfall of around 40,000; plus it’s now spread over 2 days.

What is there to see?

One of the great things about Wings and Wheels is variety. Not only have you got a great selection on cars on show, but you are treated to a air show of the highest standard. Some of the cars in attendance also explore the famous Top Gear test track as part of the motoring demonstration. Cars ranging from a 1933 Napier Railton through to the brand new Fiesta ST can be seen on track, so every petrolhead in attendance should be well catered for.

In case you’re more interested in objects that spend more time off the ground rather than on it, then you’ll be more concerned about the air display. Like the motoring demonstration, there is lots of variety to be had, both old and new, plus you have the all time favourite – The Red Arrows. As much as I love cars, the air display alone is worth going for as it’s fantastic such impressive machinery take to the air under the control of some very talented pilots.

What else is there?

If by chance the airshow and the motoring demonstration isn’t enough, then fear not, as there is still other activities you can enjoy. There’s funfair rides for the little ones (and the big little ones), there’s also plenty of stalls to buy some goodies, plus you’ve got a military zone if that’s what takes your fancy. There’s also opportunities to meet and greet the pilots from the day, so if you an aspiring pilot, a fan, or just keen to know more about the show and what they do.

How much is it?

Prices may change for next year, but to give you some idea of what to expect, this year’s event charged around £28 for an adult, £8 for a child and £65 for a family ticket (2 adult, 2 children)

Wings and Wheels 2018
Photo Credit: Patsy Alleyne-Wake/Capturing Cars UK

Can I buy a ticket in advance?

Yes, tickets can be bought in advance and you can even make a little saving by doing so.

Do I need to pay for parking?

No, parking is absolutely free, plus there’s plenty of it.

That’s a lot of money parked there… Photo credit: Patsy Alleyne-Wake/Capturing Cars UK

What do I need to bring?

British weather can be a very unpredictable thing, so be sure to bring not only suncream for when if it is hot, but also an umbrella if it’s wet. Although there are food stalls inside, you may want to bring your own picnic as well bringing some cheap fold up chairs, so you’re not standing around all day. Binoculars are also a good shout, you can really get yp close to the action, and be sure to take a camera with you as there are lots of photo opportunities. It never hurts to bring plenty of drink, especially if it’s hot.

When will it be on next year?

Theoretically, the dates for next year should be the 24th and 25th of August 2019. However, a large part of Dunsfold Park (if not all of it) was sold as plan to build a housing development (18,000 houses) so the future does look to be uncertain. Let’s hope there’ll a 15th event (plus many more) as it’s a great day for all the family!

For more details on this event, and to keep up to date, head to www.wingsandwheels.net.

Wings and Wheels 2018
Here’s to next year – hopefully.

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