A squadron of child-sized planes has landed in Bristol, sparking imagination and take-off-ready fun for under-fives
The Bristol Bulldog pedal plane and Concorde
It’s not just Concorde making headlines at Aerospace Bristol – a pint-sized plane is turning heads too. A hand-built Bristol Bulldog pedal plane has landed at the museum, delivering nostalgia with a side of child-sized aviation charm.
The exhibit, crafted for children aged five and under, was donated by the Joystick Club, a group of current and retired pilots based at White Waltham Airfield near Maidenhead, Berkshire.
The club’s mission is to spark an early interest in aviation among the next generation, and their visit to Aerospace Bristol has brought along a whole squadron of miniature aircraft for children to explore – including a Spitfire, a Piper Cub and a Hawk Trainer, which echoes the museum’s own Red Arrows simulator.
Young visitors tested out the collection, with Thursday, April 10 marking the final day for families to enjoy the pedal-powered planes. For those unable to pedal, “push sticks” can be fitted so adults can lend a hand.
Mike Clews, chairman of the Joystick Club and a retired airline pilot who first learned to fly at Lulsgate, said: “The aim of the club’s members, mostly current and retired pilots, is to promote and encourage the next generation’s interest in aviation. Our work is largely funded through donations.”
The joystick club and aerospace bristol
The Bulldog’s arrival coincides with a busy period for the museum, which recently launched a new café, Flightline Kitchen + Bar, designed as a social hub not just for visitors, but also the growing Brabazon neighbourhood.
The site is also celebrating a key moment in aviation history – Wednesday, April 9 marked the anniversary of the first British Concorde flight in 1969. To mark the occasion, visitors were treated to a special droop nose demonstration on Concorde Alpha Foxtrot.
Running until Sunday, April 27 is Chocs Away: A Tasty Time Travel Adventure, a hands-on family activity trail exploring what pilots, passengers – and even astronauts – have eaten over more than 100 years of aerospace history. Children who complete all six stations will be rewarded with a chocolate treat from the museum shop.
Further details can be found at www.aerospacebristol.org.