To inform and educate residents and visitors to the New Forest about the local aviation heritage and the twelve airfields, through our Heritage Centre and outreach programme. To preserve the information and memories that we hold in trust.

The FONFA Heritage Centre is the only display and reference library dedicated to protecting the history and heritage of the airfields that were operational in the New Forest. Aeroplane enthusiasts, particularly those with an interest in British and American WW II warbirds, will find information on the aircraft which operated from the New Forest Airfields. We have three interactive screens with videos on the aircraft and Squadrons which operated on those airfields and details on the airfields then and now. There are many models, photographs of aircraft ,as well as stories by the pilots who flew them; there are also short CGI films all available to view. Finally we have a first floor mezzanine with prints of aircraft many signed by pilots who flew them.

By visiting the FONFA Heritage Centre you will be able to learn more about the vital role that the New Forest Airfields played during WWII, enhance your knowledge of the aviation heritage of the Forest and enjoy refreshments in our Heritage Centre Tearoom.

Timings & Tours 

Saturday 20 September 10:00-11:30, 12:00-1:30 & 2:00-3:30

Location & directions 

Directions: What3words: beyond.likely.surprised. Look out for the FONFA Private Event signs on entrance to Marryat road/Arnwood Drive off Derritt lane. On leaving the lane to enter the Heatherstone Grange Estate immediately turn left and then turn left again, after travelling a short distance, as per the FONFA signs. Then in less than 50 yds you will see the sign for Mosquito Way on your right. Within a few yards you will see our centre on your right.

Contact on day: Samuel Ruddy

Telephone number: +447774047845

Accessibility Details

As we do not have a lift there is no wheelchair access to our first floor gallery, apologies. We have a tablet where you can view the prints which are the only exhibits on the first floor gallery.

Additional Information

There is a tearoom serving hot and cold drinks as well as cakes and biscuits. We have a small shop selling books, model kits and DVDS. We also have a section selling preloved books, magazines and DVDs.

Booking information 

Pre-booking requirement: Pre-booking required.

Booking opens: 08 Aug 2025 12:00 AM

Booking closes: 10 Sep 2025 12:00 AM 

Max no of people per tour: 15

Est. tour duration: 1 hour 30 minutes