Maidenhead Heritage Centre: A Window into Local History and Aviation Legacy
Explore Maidenhead’s rich local history and wartime aviation legacy at the welcoming Heritage Centre on Park Street.
Maidenhead Heritage Centre, located at 18 Park Street, offers a rich exploration of Maidenhead’s local history and heritage. The museum’s highlight is its extensive Air Transport Auxiliary display upstairs, celebrating the town’s aviation contributions during wartime. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, the centre provides engaging exhibits, educational resources, and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors interested in cultural heritage and community stories.
A brief summary to Maidenhead Heritage Centre
- 18 Park St, Maidenhead, SL6 1SL, GB
- +441628780555
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Air Transport Auxiliary exhibition upstairs to experience a unique part of WWII history.
- Plan your visit between Tuesday and Saturday, 10am to 4pm, as the centre is closed Sundays and Mondays.
- Check for special openings on the second Sunday of the month during the Farmers' Market for extra local flavor.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the educational displays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From London Paddington, take a direct train to Maidenhead station, which takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes. From the station, the Heritage Centre is about a 7-minute walk. Trains run frequently throughout the day. Tickets typically cost £10–£15 return.
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Bus
Local buses serve Frascati Way bus stops, about an 8-minute walk from the centre. Bus routes connect Maidenhead with nearby towns. Service frequency varies, with typical fares around £2–£4 per journey.
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Car
Driving to the centre is possible, but parking in central Maidenhead can be limited and may incur charges. Allow 10–20 minutes for parking. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates ranging from £1.50 to £3.00.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the Heritage Centre is easy on mostly flat terrain with paved sidewalks. Walking times vary but expect 10–20 minutes from central Maidenhead accommodations.
Maidenhead Heritage Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Maidenhead Heritage Centre
Discovering Maidenhead's Historical Roots
The Maidenhead Heritage Centre serves as a vital repository of the town’s past, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle the evolution of Maidenhead and its surrounding areas. The museum’s collections span various aspects of local life, from industrial developments to social history, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of the community’s growth and identity over the centuries.The Air Transport Auxiliary Exhibition
A standout feature of the centre is the dedicated Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) display, located on the upper floor. This exhibit honors the brave civilian pilots who ferried military aircraft during World War II, a crucial yet often overlooked chapter in British aviation history. Through detailed models, personal stories, and historical memorabilia, the ATA exhibition provides a poignant insight into the courage and skill of these pilots and their impact on the war effort.Engaging Visitor Experience and Educational Opportunities
The Heritage Centre is designed to be both informative and accessible, with interactive displays and well-curated exhibits that appeal to a broad audience. Educational programs and community events are regularly held, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the local heritage. The centre’s layout encourages exploration and reflection, making it an enriching stop for history enthusiasts and families alike.Architectural and Cultural Setting
Housed in a charming building on Park Street, the centre blends historical architecture with modern exhibition design. Its central location in Maidenhead places it within easy reach of other cultural landmarks, enhancing its role as a hub for heritage tourism. The building itself contributes to the ambience, providing a fitting backdrop for the stories it preserves.Community Involvement and Preservation Efforts
The Maidenhead Heritage Centre operates with strong community support, relying on volunteers and local historians to maintain its collections and organize events. This grassroots involvement ensures that the centre remains a living institution, continuously enriched by local knowledge and passion. Preservation efforts extend beyond the building, encompassing outreach to schools and partnerships with other heritage organizations.Planning Your Visit and Practical Information
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm, the centre charges a modest admission fee, making it an affordable cultural outing. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays, with occasional openings aligned with local events such as the Farmers' Market. Amenities include accessible facilities and nearby dining options, ensuring a comfortable visit. The centre’s proximity to Maidenhead train station and bus stops facilitates convenient access for travelers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maidenhead Railway Bridge
1.2 km
A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.
Virgin Experience Days
6.3 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Sydney Camm Memorial
8.1 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Burning Bush
8.2 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
8.7 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
8.7 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
The Curfew Tower
8.7 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Queen Victoria Statue
8.8 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
8.8 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
8.9 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
9.0 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
King Edward III Tower
9.0 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
9.1 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
9.1 km
Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
The Long Walk
9.3 km
Explore Windsor's Long Walk: A Historic Avenue of Beauty, Nature, and Royal Heritage Perfect for Relaxation and Scenic Views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grenfell Park
0.5 km
A historic community park in Maidenhead with playgrounds, sports courts, outdoor gym, café, and scenic green spaces for all ages.
Braywick Nature Centre
1.6 km
Discover Braywick Nature Centre, a peaceful haven blending heritage, wildlife, and immersive environmental learning in the heart of Maidenhead.
Boulters Lock
1.9 km
Historic Thames lock and serene riverside gardens offering scenic boat watching, wildlife, and a vibrant pub atmosphere in Maidenhead.
Ray Mill Island
2.0 km
Discover peaceful riverside walks, wildlife, and family-friendly charm at Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead’s scenic Thames corridor.
Dorney Court
4.0 km
Discover Dorney Court’s enchanting Tudor manor, stunning gardens, and elegant event spaces—an idyllic estate blending historic charm with modern luxury.
Dorney Wetlands
4.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich wildlife of Dorney Wetlands, a serene nature reserve near Windsor perfect for peaceful walks and birdwatching.
The Stanley Spencer Gallery
4.3 km
Discover the world’s largest collection of Stanley Spencer’s art in the charming village that inspired his visionary works.
Cliveden House
4.6 km
A storied Italianate mansion overlooking the Thames, where centuries of glamour and intrigue unfold across 376 acres of magnificent gardens.
River Thames
4.9 km
Discover the River Thames, London’s historic and scenic river weaving through iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural life.
National Trust - Cliveden
5.1 km
Explore Cliveden’s majestic gardens, historic house, and woodlands on a grand Thames Valley estate rich in heritage and natural beauty.
BCA Zoo
5.8 km
Discover BCA Zoo’s unique blend of education and wildlife encounters nestled in the scenic Berkshire College of Agriculture campus.
Cock Marsh
5.9 km
Discover Cock Marsh, a tranquil riverside nature reserve blending rare wildlife habitats with ancient Bronze Age burial mounds in scenic Berkshire.
Marlow Lock
6.2 km
Historic lock and weir on the River Thames offering scenic riverside walks and a glimpse into centuries of river navigation heritage.
Sutherland Grange
6.4 km
A serene and well-kept park in Windsor, perfect for picnics, dog walks, and peaceful strolls amid vibrant greenery.
Higginson Park
6.4 km
A vibrant riverside park in Marlow offering family fun, leisure sports, scenic river views, and year-round community events.
Essential places to dine
The Hinds Head
1.9 km
A Michelin-starred British pub in Bray blending traditional charm with Heston Blumenthal’s innovative culinary artistry.
The Fat Duck
1.9 km
Experience a groundbreaking, theatrical tasting journey at The Fat Duck, where culinary science meets nostalgic storytelling in a historic Bray inn.
The Waterside Inn
1.9 km
Experience timeless French haute cuisine and riverside elegance at The Waterside Inn, Bray’s iconic three-Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel.
The Cliveden Dining Room
4.6 km
Experience refined British fine dining in the historic grandeur of Cliveden House, set amidst breathtaking gardens near London.
The Greene Oak
6.0 km
A charming Windsor gastropub blending traditional British pub warmth with seasonal, market-fresh cuisine and stylish dining.
The Ivy Marlow Garden
6.7 km
Elegant British dining with Art Deco charm and a diverse menu on Marlow's historic High Street, perfect for special occasions and leisurely meals.
GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
6.8 km
South African-inspired dining with stunning marina views at Windsor Racecourse Marina, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
Vanilla Pod
6.9 km
Cozy Anglo-French dining in historic Marlow, blending refined flavors with literary heritage and exceptional service.
The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse
7.1 km
Experience luxury dining with panoramic racecourse views at The Castle Restaurant, where thrilling horse racing meets elegant cuisine in Windsor.
Gurkha Royale Restaurant & Bar
7.7 km
Authentic Himalayan, Indian, and Oriental flavors served in a vibrant, welcoming Windsor venue with exceptional service and a lively atmosphere.
The Restaurant at Danesfield House
8.0 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house with stunning views of the Thames and Chiltern Hills near Marlow.
Test Kitchen Food
8.2 km
Innovative, fresh, and vibrant dining at Windsor’s Test Kitchen Food in a unique brewery tap setting.
Winning Post Pub & Dining
8.3 km
Quintessential English country pub in Winkfield offering refined British fare, cosy charm, and welcoming hospitality in a historic 18th-century setting.
Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse
8.5 km
Elegant modern British dining and boutique lodging in the heart of historic Eton, just steps from Windsor Castle.
Côte Windsor
8.6 km
Classic French brasserie dining with stunning riverside views of Windsor Castle in a lively, modern setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
Gifts Box
8.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gifts Box, the charming gift shop in Windsor, perfect for your memorable keepsakes.
Oliver Bonas
8.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Oliver Bonas, nestled in the heart of Windsor Yards Shopping Centre.
Jigsaw
8.6 km
Discover timeless style and quality craftsmanship at Jigsaw, Windsor's boutique for elegant ladies' fashion and unique statement pieces.
Windsor Yards
8.6 km
A vibrant shopping destination blending modern retail with Windsor’s historic charm and community spirit.
H&M
8.7 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for men, women, and children in the heart of historic Windsor’s King Edward Court.
Craft Coop Windsor
8.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry at Craft Coop Windsor, a welcoming hub for community creativity and bespoke treasures.
Piara
8.7 km
Explore Windsor's charm at Piara Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
The Old Grain Barn Antiques, Berkshire
8.7 km
Discover vintage treasures and artisan crafts in a charming antique barn nestled in Berkshire’s Moss End Garden Village.
Oxfam
8.7 km
Discover unique second-hand treasures and support global causes in Windsor’s historic Oxfam charity shop near Windsor Castle.
Next
8.7 km
Next Windsor offers stylish, quality fashion and accessories for all ages in a convenient and welcoming shopping environment.
Whistles
8.7 km
Upscale ladies’ fashion boutique set within the historic charm of Windsor Royal Station, blending contemporary style with Victorian elegance.
Warwicks
8.7 km
A premier men's clothing store nestled in Windsor’s historic Peascod Street, blending classic style with modern shopping charm.
Purple Gifts
8.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Ryad Momo
8.7 km
Discover Moroccan elegance and unique handcrafted gifts at Ryad Momo, Windsor’s charming boutique for exquisite homeware and candles.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Off The Tap
0.4 km
Lively Maidenhead pub offering craft beers, tasty pub fare, and vibrant events in a welcoming, fun atmosphere.
The Boathouse at Boulters Lock
1.9 km
Riverside gastropub on Boulters Lock Island offering seasonal British cuisine, stunning river views, and a warm, stylish atmosphere.
Milaanj at The Beehive Pub & Restaurant
5.6 km
Discover Milaanj at The Beehive: a rustic village pub in White Waltham serving exquisite British-Indian fusion cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
The Old Brewery
6.6 km
A vibrant Marlow pub with great beers, lively sports screens, and welcoming service for all occasions.
The Botanist Marlow
6.9 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Marlow, alive with seasonal menus, inventive cocktails, and vibrant live music every weekend.
The Oarsman, Marlow
7.0 km
Sophisticated gastropub in Marlow blending seasonal British cuisine, curated wines, and warm hospitality in a stylish setting.
Upstairs Windsor
8.6 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
All Bar One Windsor
8.7 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
8.7 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
The Piper Art Bar
8.7 km
Discover a vibrant Scottish-themed bar and contemporary art space in the heart of Windsor, offering an extensive whisky selection and eclectic ambiance.
La planchette
8.7 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Queen Victoria
8.7 km
Step into The Queen Victoria for an authentic 18th-century English pub experience with hearty food, real ales, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere in Windsor.
No5 St Leonards Road
8.7 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Royal Windsor
8.8 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
The Sinner Bar
8.8 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pink Gentleman's Club.
8.7 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Boom
8.7 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
8.7 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
8.7 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
Diligence
10.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
The Binfield Club
11.2 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Venue, Bucks
12.1 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
12.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Winkers Nightclub
15.6 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
3sixty
17.9 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Q Club
18.9 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Reading Lola Lo
19.1 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Popworld - Reading
19.1 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Gun Street Garden
19.1 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Popworld Watford
26.7 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
