Nestled on the edge of Lincolnshire’s fens, the rich history of Wickenby Airfield traces its origins to the dark days of World War II. In 1942, RAF Wickenby was established to serve as base for the burgeoning RAF Bomber Command. Subsequently, Wickenby became home to both 12 and 626 squadrons, which initially operated Vickers Wellingtons before transitioning to the iconic Avro Lancasters.
With the conclusion of World War II, Wickenby Airfield’s role shifted. It was briefly used for post-war trials of jet aircraft before being decommissioned by the RAF in 1956. At this point, the airfield transitioned into private ownership. In the decades that followed, Wickenby Airfield underwent a renaissance. The airfield found new life as a hub for general aviation, flying clubs, and vintage aircraft enthusiasts. A passionate community of aviation enthusiasts and historians worked tirelessly to preserve its wartime heritage.
Numerous vintage aircraft, including iconic Spitfires and Hurricanes, were restored to their former glory on the airfield’s grounds. The Wickenby Museum, established in 1987, became a custodian of the airfield’s history, housing an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that chronicle its wartime and post-war eras.
Today, Wickenby Airfield is a thriving testament to the enduring legacy of aviation. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in its rich history. Vintage aircraft still grace its runways, and the airfield hosts fly-in events, airshows, and flight experiences that continue to captivate aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Wickenby has been faithfully recreated by Burning Blue Design, undertaking on-site visits to ensure the highest levels of accuracy.
