About Dunkeswell
Supermarine Spitfire
The Spitfire is the iconic British WW2 fighter aircraft. Known for its distinctive elliptical wing, agile handling and historical role in defending Britain’s skies, it remains one of the most celebrated warplanes of all time. The model on display at Dunsmore is restored to near-original configuration, giving visitors a direct link to aviation legend.
Model: Supermarine Spitfire — British single-seat fighter/interceptor aircraft.
First flight: 5 March 1936.
Built for: Royal Air Force (and other Allied air forces) during WW2.
Key specs: Wingspan ~11.2 m, length ~9.1 m, top speed ~580 km/h (for some variants).
Historical significance: A pivotal role in the Battle of Britain; more Spitfires built than any other British combat aircraft of the war.
Helicopter (Generic Vintage Light Helicopter)
This vintage light helicopter represents the early era of rotary-wing aviation. With its open or semi-enclosed cockpit and exposed rotor mechanisms, it offers a thrilling contrast to fixed-wing aircraft like the Spitfire. At Dunsmore, it stands as a tribute to the versatility and innovation of helicopter design.
Example model: Bell 47 (as representative) – length ≈ 9.63 m, height ≈ 2.82 m.
Max take-off weight: ~1,338 kg (for Bell 47G variant).
Role: Light utility, reconnaissance, training – post-war early rotorcraft era.
Dunkeswell Aerodrome — A Living Piece of Aviation History
Nestled in the rolling hills of East Devon, Dunkeswell Aerodrome is steeped in rich aviation heritage. Opened in 1943 during the Second World War, the airfield was built for the United States Navy, becoming the only US Naval Air Base in Europe. From this very site, American aircrews flew long-range patrols over the Atlantic in search of enemy submarines, operating aircraft such as the Consolidated Liberator.
The airfield played a vital role in protecting essential supply convoys crossing the Atlantic, and the legacy of those wartime missions still echoes across its runways today. Many of the original hangars and dispersal areas remain, standing as quiet reminders of Dunkeswell’s importance to the Allied effort.
After the war, the aerodrome passed into civilian hands and evolved into one of the South West’s most active and welcoming general aviation centres. Today it’s home to Devon & Somerset Flight Training and many historic aircraft — including the de Havilland Tiger Moth, which continues to offer the unique open-cockpit flying experience that defined the golden age of aviation.
Helicopter and Spitfire Flights often operate from Dunkeswell during the Summer. There is also Parachuting and Wing Walking (for the brave) which all adds to the flavour of a great day out for all the family.
You can relax in the welcoming atmosphere of the Liberator Coffee Bar & Grill – a perfect place to view homebased flights as well as the hundreds of visiting aircraft throughout the year.
From wartime operations to peacetime adventure, Dunkeswell Aerodrome remains a place where history truly takes flight.