13th August 2023 - Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome - Dave Cusdin

Eight riders turned up on an overcast but dry Sunday morning for a full days ride to the Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome near Maldon in Essex. We picked up another three riders on route making eleven in total. Mel had kindly put together a gpx route for the trip which simplified the directions for the 2 groups led by myself and Steve C. We headed out on the back roads towards Bury then had a comfort break at Tarkas cafe at Baythorne Hall in Halstead. Three members decided to head back leaving the remaining eight to carry on through Braintree and Maldon to our destination.

Stow Maries is the largest known surviving group of RFC buildings on a WWI aerodrome which was not adapted for further military use later in its history. Originally opened in 1916 as home to B Flight of No 37(HD) Squadron, Royal Flying Corps, the aerodrome saw the birth of the Air Defence of Great Britain in response to the first raids by Zeppelins and Gotha bombers on London and the South East. It played a key role in the first London Blitz the following year. It was at Stow Maries that No 37 Squadron transitioned from the Royal Flying Corps to the Royal Air Force on 1 April 1918. It continued in its dedicated role until May 1919, when the RAF closed its doors forever.

The volunteers running the site made us very welcome and there was an atmospheric cafe with a varied menu. After a good nosh we spent about an hour exploring the site and small museum before making our way homewards. It is worth noting that the site do hold a ‘wings and wheels’ flying event at least once a year but it is prebook only.

We called in at the TTT motorcycle village at Sudbury to break up the journey back and on arrival home most members would have exceeded 200 miles. As usual the company was convivial and it was great to welcome new members to the group.

Lets hope the weather remains fine for the next trip!

Take care and stay safe

Cheers Dave C