Sydney Camm Memorial
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
A full-size replica of the iconic Hawker Hurricane fighter aircraft stands as a lasting tribute to Sir Sydney Camm, the brilliant aeronautical engineer born in Windsor who designed this legendary World War II plane. Located near Alexandra Gardens along the riverside, this striking memorial celebrates Camm's extraordinary contributions to aviation history and his pivotal role in the Battle of Britain. The replica bears authentic markings from aircraft flown during the conflict, making it a poignant landmark for history enthusiasts and aviation lovers.
A brief summary to Sydney Camm Memorial
- Barry Ave, Windsor, SL4 5HZ, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the aircraft's authentic Battle of Britain markings and the surrounding riverside setting. The memorial is accessible year-round and free to view.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Thames riverside path to explore Windsor's historic character and visit nearby attractions such as Windsor Castle and the town centre.
- Stop at the nearby Windsor & Royal Borough Museum on the High Street to see additional displays about Sir Sydney Camm and his remarkable design legacy.
- Photography enthusiasts should note that the replica's position near Alexandra Gardens offers excellent angles, especially during golden hour when light reflects off the aircraft's fuselage.
- If interested in flying experiences, the nearby Maidenhead Heritage Centre offers the opportunity to pilot a World War II Spitfire simulator and view their 'Grandma Flew Spitfires' exhibition.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Walking from Windsor Town Centre
From Windsor town centre, head toward the riverside and Alexandra Gardens. The memorial is located near Barry Avenue, approximately 800 metres from the High Street. Follow the Thames Path or riverside walkway, which takes 10–15 minutes on foot. The route is flat and accessible, passing through pleasant riverside scenery. No parking required for this option.
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By Bus
Local buses serve the Windsor area with regular routes connecting the town centre to Alexandra Gardens and the riverside. Journey time from Windsor town centre is typically 5–10 minutes depending on the route. Bus fares are approximately £1.50–£2.50 per journey. Check local transport schedules for current routes and frequencies, as services vary seasonally.
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By Car with Parking
Drive to Alexandra Gardens car park or nearby street parking on Barry Avenue. The memorial is directly accessible from the car park area. Parking charges apply at most Windsor car parks, typically £1.50–£3.00 per hour or £5.00–£8.00 for all-day parking. The site is easily reached via the A308 or local roads leading to the riverside.
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By Train and Walking
Windsor & Eton Central railway station is approximately 1.2 kilometres from the memorial. From the station, walk toward the riverside and follow signs to Alexandra Gardens, taking 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, Windsor & Eton Riverside station is closer at approximately 600 metres. Train fares vary depending on your origin; typical day returns from London range from £8.00–£15.00.
Sydney Camm Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Sydney Camm Memorial
The Visionary Behind the Hurricane
Sir Sydney Camm (1893–1966) was one of the most prolific aircraft designers of the twentieth century, yet he began his career with no formal technical training beyond a woodworking apprenticeship. Born at 10 Alma Road in Windsor on 5 August 1893, Camm showed an early passion for aeronautics, designing and building model aircraft as a schoolboy with his brother Fred. Their venture into selling high-quality flying models to Eton College boys—delivered secretly at night via strings lowered from dormitories to avoid detection—demonstrated both his ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit. This youthful enthusiasm culminated in 1912 when Camm helped establish the Windsor Model Aeroplane Club and participated in building a man-carrying glider that was successfully flown with an engine.From Workshop to Hawker Engineering
Camm's formal aviation career began shortly before World War I when he joined the Martinsyde aircraft company at Brooklands in Surrey as a shop-floor carpenter. His talent quickly earned him promotion to the drawing office, where he spent the war years developing his design skills. After Martinsyde's liquidation in 1921, he worked briefly for another aircraft manufacturer before joining Hawker Engineering Company in November 1923 as a senior draughtsman at their Kingston upon Thames facility. Within two years, his exceptional abilities led to his appointment as chief designer—a position he would hold for 43 years. During his tenure at Hawker, Camm was responsible for designing 52 different aircraft types, of which approximately 26,000 were manufactured. At one point during the 1930s, 84 percent of all aircraft in the Royal Air Force were designed by Camm, a testament to his dominance in the field.The Hurricane and the Battle of Britain
The Hawker Hurricane, Camm's most celebrated design, first flew in 1935 and entered RAF service in 1937. This revolutionary monoplane fighter featured a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, an enclosed cockpit, and retractable undercarriage—innovations that made it the first RAF fighter of its kind. The Hurricane proved to be resilient, easily repairable, remarkably manoeuvrable, and possessed a stable firing platform, qualities that proved invaluable during the Battle of Britain in 1940. The aircraft played a crucial role in defending Britain against Nazi Germany's aerial assault, and Camm's design became synonymous with British courage and technological achievement. The News Chronicle famously hailed Camm as the man who saved Britain, and his contributions were recognized when he was appointed CBE in 1941 and knighted in 1953.A Legacy Beyond the Hurricane
Camm's design career extended far beyond the Hurricane. He went on to create the Typhoon fighter-bomber, which saw extensive action during the 1944 Normandy invasion, followed by the Tempest and the Sea Fury—the ultimate expression of high-performance, piston-engined, propeller-driven monoplane design. With the advent of the jet engine in 1942, Camm successfully transitioned to jet-powered aircraft, designing the highly successful Sea Hawk and its successor, the swept-wing Hunter jet-fighter, which set the world air speed record in 1953. Later in his career, Camm worked on the radical concept of VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) technology, which ultimately became the Harrier jump jet—a revolutionary aircraft that transformed military aviation and warfare. His designs can be seen at the RAF Museum in Hendon and in displays at the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum.The Memorial in Alexandra Gardens
In 2012, a full-size replica of the Hawker Hurricane was erected near Alexandra Gardens in Windsor, close to Camm's childhood home, creating a striking and accessible memorial to his genius. The replica bears the authentic markings of an aircraft flown during the Battle of Britain by Squadron Leader John Grandy, who later became Marshal of the Royal Air Force and served as Constable and Governor of Windsor Castle from 1978 to 1988. This tangible tribute allows visitors to appreciate the scale and presence of the aircraft that Camm designed, standing as a permanent reminder of his extraordinary contributions to aviation history. The memorial serves as both a local landmark and a point of pilgrimage for aviation enthusiasts, historians, and those interested in World War II heritage. A commemorative blue plaque also marks his former residence at 10 Alma Road, while another plaque on Athlone Square commemorates the site where the Windsor Model Aeroplane Club built their pioneering man-carrying glider.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sydney Camm Memorial
0.0 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
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A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
The Curfew Tower
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Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
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A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Queen Victoria Statue
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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
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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
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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)
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Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
Burning Bush
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A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
King Edward III Tower
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Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
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The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
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Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
Miniland
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Explore Miniland at LEGOLAND® Windsor, where famous landmarks are reimagined in stunning LEGO detail, offering a family-friendly adventure for all ages.
Dorney Court
4.1 km
Explore the enchanting Dorney Court, a historical landmark with stunning gardens and rich heritage, perfect for an unforgettable day out.
King George III & His Horse Statue
4.5 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rotary Duck Race
0.1 km
Join the Rotary Duck Race at Barry Avenue, Windsor for a lively summer day of fun, music, market stalls, and charity on the scenic riverbanks.
River Thames Windsor
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Experience the timeless charm of Windsor along the scenic and historic River Thames, where royal heritage meets tranquil waters.
The Brocas
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Historic riverside meadow in Eton, steeped in medieval legacy and famed for its vibrant rowing traditions on the Thames.
Alexandra Gardens
0.2 km
A scenic riverside oasis in Windsor offering stunning castle views, vibrant community events, and peaceful green spaces for all seasons.
Windsor Wheel
0.4 km
A gentle 110-foot observation wheel offering serene panoramic views of Windsor, the Thames Valley, and historic landmarks.
The Music & Words Club
0.4 km
A vibrant Windsor venue where music and spoken word unite in an intimate, creative atmosphere.
Diamond Jubilee Water Fountains
0.5 km
A regal water spectacle near Windsor Castle celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee with 60 jets forming a crown in tranquil riverside gardens.
Royal Windsor Maze
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Explore the enchanting Royal Windsor Maze, a unique brick labyrinth featuring a mosaic of Windsor Castle's Round Tower at its centre.
Windsor Riverside Walk
0.5 km
A scenic riverside promenade with views of Windsor Castle, connecting Alexandra Gardens, Eton, and the town centre for a peaceful, picturesque stroll.
Escape Experience
0.5 km
Dive into thrilling, family-friendly escape rooms in Windsor with immersive themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
0.6 km
A historic obelisk in Windsor honoring royal jubilees, blending heritage with serene green space at Bachelors Acre.
Sculpture
0.6 km
Explore Eton's iconic sculpture, a stunning emblem of art and history nestled by the River Thames, enriching your journey through Windsor.
FUZZY BEAR Cocktails & Comedy
0.6 km
Experience vibrant comedy nights and creative cocktails in a unique railway arch venue in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife.
Eton & Eton wick information centre
0.6 km
Your friendly gateway to Eton’s heritage, local art, and visitor services on High Street near Windsor Bridge.
Windsor Eton Bridge UK
0.6 km
Historic 19th-century pedestrian bridge linking Windsor and Eton with scenic Thames views and rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
Test Kitchen Food
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Innovative, fresh, and vibrant dining at Windsor’s Test Kitchen Food in a unique brewery tap setting.
Patch On The Plaza
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A lively alfresco restaurant in Windsor famed for seasonal small plates, warm service, and a memorable outdoor dining atmosphere.
Cattle Grid
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Windsor’s lively steakhouse serving prime cuts, ribs, and burgers in a rustic American-style setting with generous portions and unique sauces.
Browns Windsor
0.5 km
Classic British brasserie charm with contemporary dining on Windsor’s scenic Promenade.
Bill's Windsor Restaurant
0.6 km
Cozy British dining with legendary pancakes and fresh, hearty meals in the heart of Windsor Royal Station.
Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining and boutique lodging in the heart of historic Eton, just steps from Windsor Castle.
Antalya Restaurant Windsor
0.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor’s historic Peascod Street.
Honest Burgers Windsor
0.6 km
Savor freshly made British burgers and rosemary chips just steps from Windsor Castle in a lively, locally inspired setting.
Côte Windsor
0.6 km
Classic French brasserie dining with stunning riverside views of Windsor Castle in a lively, modern setting.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant Windsor
0.6 km
Authentic Italian dining in Windsor’s historic heart, offering wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Brasserie at Sir Christopher Wren
0.6 km
Modern European dining with riverside views and friendly service in the heart of historic Windsor.
The Real Greek - Windsor
0.6 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors and vibrant Mediterranean hospitality at The Real Greek - Windsor, nestled by the scenic Thames.
Zizzi - Windsor
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Enjoy fresh Italian classics and warm hospitality opposite Windsor Castle in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Thai Square Windsor
0.6 km
Upscale Thai dining with authentic flavors and elegant ambiance opposite Windsor Castle on Thames Street.
Nando's Windsor
0.6 km
Flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in the heart of Windsor – bold flavours, casual dining, and a relaxed vibe on Thames Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts Box
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gifts Box, the charming gift shop in Windsor, perfect for your memorable keepsakes.
Jigsaw
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and quality craftsmanship at Jigsaw, Windsor's boutique for elegant ladies' fashion and unique statement pieces.
Windsor Yards
0.5 km
A vibrant shopping destination blending modern retail with Windsor’s historic charm and community spirit.
Oliver Bonas
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Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Oliver Bonas, nestled in the heart of Windsor Yards Shopping Centre.
H&M
0.5 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for men, women, and children in the heart of historic Windsor’s King Edward Court.
Piara
0.6 km
Explore Windsor's charm at Piara Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
Craft Coop Windsor
0.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry at Craft Coop Windsor, a welcoming hub for community creativity and bespoke treasures.
Whistles
0.6 km
Upscale ladies’ fashion boutique set within the historic charm of Windsor Royal Station, blending contemporary style with Victorian elegance.
Next
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Next Windsor offers stylish, quality fashion and accessories for all ages in a convenient and welcoming shopping environment.
Daniel Department Store
0.6 km
Historic family-run department store in Windsor offering luxury fashion, homeware, dining, and personalized services in a modern setting.
Purple Gifts
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Warwicks
0.6 km
A premier men's clothing store nestled in Windsor’s historic Peascod Street, blending classic style with modern shopping charm.
Mint Velvet Windsor
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Discover relaxed glamour and timeless women's fashion at Mint Velvet Windsor, your stylish boutique in Windsor Royal Shopping Centre.
A P Souvenirs & Gifts
0.6 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at A P Souvenirs & Gifts, your convenient stop near Windsor Castle for memorable keepsakes.
Oxfam
0.6 km
Discover unique second-hand treasures and support global causes in Windsor’s historic Oxfam charity shop near Windsor Castle.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Upstairs Windsor
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All Bar One Windsor
0.5 km
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The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
0.6 km
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The Piper Art Bar
0.6 km
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La planchette
0.6 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Queen Victoria
0.7 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.
The Sinner Bar
0.7 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
No5 St Leonards Road
0.7 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Royal Windsor
0.7 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
The Horse & Groom
0.8 km
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The Shambles
0.8 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Carpenters Arms
0.8 km
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The Prince Harry
0.8 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Cobbles
0.8 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The Acre
0.8 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boom
0.6 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
0.6 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Scotch
0.6 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
0.6 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Binfield Club
13.4 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
14.6 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Diligence
16.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
18.5 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Venue, Bucks
18.5 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
23.1 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Popworld Watford
24.4 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
Canvas Bar & Nightclub
24.4 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Q Club
24.8 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
24.9 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Reading Lola Lo
24.9 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Historic
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access