White Waltham

About

Although an area of great antiquity, where Roman remains have been found, White Waltham has seen more change during the past 60 years than all its previous history. This is due to the establishment of White Waltham Airfield during World War II and its subsequent use as the headquarters of Home Command of the RAF.

The Air Transport Auxiliary was also headquartered at White Waltham throughout the Second World War.  This was a civilian, volunteer unit, supporting the RAF by helping to ferry aircraft between factories and front-line squadrons.  Its male and female pilots came from 25 different countries, including the USA.   Their adventures of courage, skill and sacrifice are told in the permanent Grandma Flew Spitfires exhibition at Maidenhead Heritage Centre.

White Waltham Airfield is now the base of West London Aero Club and many of the previous married quarters are now in private ownership. It now has the reputation of being the largest grass airfield in Europe.

The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin was partially rebuilt in 1869 but contains some original features, including a Norman arch at the entry to the tower and the chancel, which dates from the Early English period. Outside the churchyard wall the old village stocks are preserved.