Local Activities

The Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) Museum celebrates the town’s rich aviation heritage with historic aircraft, jet engines, wind tunnel models, and interactive exhibits. Highlights include a replica of Samuel Cody’s 1908 Flyer and hands-on simulators. Open on weekends, it’s a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.

The historic Wind Tunnels at Farnborough are some of the few remaining buildings from the world famous Royal Aircraft Establishment. Saved from demolition and given listed status, these buildings were at the forefront of aerodynamic research and development from the early 1930s until 1994. They are not open to the general public and tours are operated exclusively by volunteers from the Trust with the kind permission of the Farnborough Business Park Owners and Management Team.

Farnborough Abbey, also known as St. Michael's Abbey, is the final resting place of Napoleon III and his wife, the Empress Eugénie. The abbey is home to a community of Benedictine monks who live a simple, contemplative life focused on prayer and work. Their income is generated through various means, including printing, publishing, bookbinding, and the Abbey Shop, which is open to the public.