Concorde was a ground-breaking piece of technology, famous across the world for its high speeds and reputation for luxury. But it has now been 11 years since the supersonic airliner made its final flight.

Filton Airfield on the outskirts of Bristol played an important role in the development of Concorde. The site hosted the design, testing and production of the plane. This was one of the many technological developments in British aviation which Filton played a leading role in for over a century. 

HLF is supporting a project which will transform two listed First World War hangers on the Filton site into an aerospace centre, complete with a new museum, learning centre and a permanent home for the last Concorde to be assembled at Filton.

The project, which is also supported by BAE Systems, Airbus and Rolls Royce, will tell the story of the industry and its impact on the area including the social history of the people who worked there.

Nerys Watts, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund South West, said: “From First World War fighter planes to the ground-breaking Concorde, British aviation was born and bred at Filton Airfield.  HLF’s investment of £4.7m will breathe new life into this site, making it a centre of excellence where the industry’s heritage can be truly celebrated.

Did you know? Some of the other remaining Concordes in the UK are also on display at other HLF-funded museums. You can get up close to the famous airliner at Airspace, IWM Duxford, the National Museum of Flight, Scotland, the Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton and the Brooklands Museum, Surrey.