Top 10: Beautiful British Racing Planes

The S.6 obliterated the competition to win the 1929 Schneider Trophy, coming in 60mph faster than the second-placed Macchi MC.67. Further tweaks to the R-type engine led it to deliver an incredible 2350 horsepower in the S.6B, which won the trophy outright for the UK in 1931. Key to its success and when winning the race: the fuel contained no gasoline, instead being 60% methanol, 30% benzol, 10% acetone, plus tetraethyl lead.

As a final flourish, the sensational S.6B proved it was as fast as it was beautiful by setting the world absolute speed record at 407.5mph, becoming the fastest man-made vehicle yet built in the process. Incredibly, it remains one of the two fastest floatplanes ever constructed even today.

8: Napier-Heston Racer

The Sabre aircraft engine, developed by Napier & Son, was a powerful British aero engine used primarily in the Hawker Typhoon and Tempest during World War II. A 24-cylinder, liquid-cooled H-block design, it delivered up to 2400 horsepower, driving high-performance fighters despite early reliability issues. Its complex engineering marked a significant wartime innovation.

The first aircraft designed around the Sabre engine was the Napier-Heston Racer. It was intended to snatch the World Air Speed Record. It was hoped that it would be able to reach 480mph. The project was funded privately by the automotive mogul William Morris; the British Air Ministry had mixed feelings about the project, though at times thought it could aid in the engine development of the Sabre.

8: Napier-Heston Racer

On June 12, 1940, the first aircraft for the record attempt made its maiden flight at Heston Aerodrome in West London, piloted by Squadron Leader GLG Richmond, Heston Aircraft’s Chief Test Pilot. A heavy bump during the high-speed takeoff run, with the canopy off, caused an unexpected early liftoff.

After its abrupt take-off, Richmond conducted a brief test flight with the landing gear extended, but inadequate elevator control and engine overheating forced an emergency landing. Scalded by steam or coolant, he stalled the aircraft at 30 feet, crashing heavily. The DH.88 Comet and Heston Racer were both designed by Arthur Hagg (1888-1985).

7: de Havilland DH.88 Comet

The de Havilland Comet Racer of 1934 is a ravishingly beautiful machine with an incredible, perhaps miraculous, backstory. Sir MacPherson Robertson put up a £10,000 prize (equivalent to £ 607,000 in 2025) for the winner of an air race from England to Australia, to celebrate the centenary of the Australian state of Victoria.

Whereas most entrants (rather reasonably) chose an existing aircraft, the de Havilland aircraft company proposed a brand-new aeroplane. The new machine, an utterly modern machine embracing all the latest ideas in aeronautical design, went from conception to winning the contest in only nine months!

7: de Havilland DH.88 Comet

Innovations included a retractable undercarriage (rare in 1934), a new kind of wooden stressed skin, and two-pitch propellers. Despite its slender fuselage, it contained enough fuel to travel 2900 miles (4667 kilometres) on internal fuel… The DH.88 would lead to the Mosquito, one of the best aircraft of the Second World War.

Today, Comet G-ACSS is also part of the Shuttleworth Collection; Undoubtedly, this collection contains some of the most gorgeous aircraft in history.

6: Gloster VI

The Gloster VI, developed in 1929 by Gloster Aircraft, was a racing seaplane designed for the Schneider Trophy. Its sleek monoplane design featured a low-wing configuration and twin floats. Powered by a 1320 hp Napier Lion VIID engine, it was built to push speed limits with advanced aerodynamics.

Entered in the 1929 Schneider Trophy race, the Gloster VI represented Britain’s pursuit of aviation supremacy. With a streamlined golden fuselage and surface radiators to reduce drag, it aimed to outperform rivals. The aircraft showcased Gloster’s engineering, competing against the designs of Mussolini’s Italy in a high-stakes international contest.

6: Gloster VI

During trials, the golden Gloster VI set a world airspeed record of 336.3 mph, piloted by Richard Waghorn. This was thanks to its lightweight structure and powerful engine. However, in the Schneider race, it finished second to Supermarine’s S6, as minor handling issues and engine tuning challenges limited its edge.

Though it didn’t win, the Gloster VI’s record-breaking speed and design innovations influenced future aircraft. Its aerodynamic refinements informed Gloster’s later projects, including the jet-powered Meteor. The VI’s role in the Schneider Trophy highlighted Britain’s aviation prowess, inspiring advancements in high-speed flight.

5: Supermarine S4

The Supermarine S4, designed by R.J. Mitchell in 1925, was a sleek, racing seaplane built for the Schneider Trophy. Its streamlined monoplane design, with a cantilever wing and unbraced floats, was all about speed. Powered by a 680 hp Napier Lion engine, it pushed aerodynamic boundaries for its era.

Entered in the 1925 Schneider Trophy race, the S4 represented Britain’s bid to reclaim the title. The aircraft’s innovative design focused on minimising drag, with a smooth wooden fuselage and radiators integrated into the wings. It was a very bold step forward.

5: Supermarine S4

During trials, the S4 achieved a remarkable 226.6 mph, setting a British seaplane speed record. However, wing flutter issues emerged, causing instability at high speeds. In the Schneider race, pilot Henri Biard (pictured left) crashed due to these vibrations, ending Britain’s hopes. The S4’s potential was clear, but structural flaws limited success.

Though it failed to win, the S4 influenced future designs, notably the Supermarine S6B, which secured the Schneider Trophy in 1931. Lessons from the S4’s aerodynamics and engine integration shaped the later work of Mitchell (pictured right), including the Spitfire.

4: Fairey III

The Fairey III family, introduced in 1917, were British biplanes renowned for reliability and versatility. Designed as a reconnaissance and general-purpose aircraft, it featured a wooden frame and fabric covering that combined graceful lines with practical durability. As the IIIC, it was the best seaplane designed in World War I, though it arrived too late to serve.

In 1919, Fairey repurchased the first Fairey III prototype, upgraded it with single-bay wings and a Napier Lion engine, and entered it in the Schneider Trophy air race on September 10. Unfortunately, the event was called off due to fog, halting its chance to shine beyond military aviation (this is enough of an excuse for us to include this extremely attractive aeroplane.)

4: Fairey III

Over the years, the Fairey III evolved through several variants and became an important type for the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force throughout the 1920s and into the 1930s. Its rugged performance in naval aviation earned it respect across fleets worldwide.

A symbol of early British aeronautical innovation, the Fairey III had a profound influence on future naval aircraft and remains an icon of its era. The ultimate III was the exceptionally beautiful IIIF (pictured). It enjoyed an all-metal fuselage, and later all-metal wings, and a neatly cowled engine.

3: The Hawker Cygnet

The Hawker Cygnet, a 1920s British ultralight sesquiplane (an aircraft with one set of large wings and one set of smaller wings), was Sydney Camm’s first design for Hawker Aircraft. Built for the 1924 Royal Aero Club Light Aircraft Competition, two were constructed (G-EBMB, G-EBJH) with wood-and-fabric frames, weighing just 270 pounds (123 kg).

In 1925, G-EBMB, flown by George Bulman, won the 100-mile International Handicap Race at 75.6 mph and took second in the 50-mile Light Aeroplane Race. Both Cygnets, re-engined with Bristol Cherub IIIs in 1926, claimed first and second in further competitions, showcasing their sprightly performance despite low power.

3: The Hawker Cygnet

The Cygnet’s lightweight design, with a Warren girder fuselage and box-spar wings, prioritised efficiency for private flying. However, it didn’t secure the main 1924 prize due to engine issues. Sadly, G-EBJH crashed in 1927. G-EBMB was stored until 1946, and was later displayed at the RAF Museum in Cosford.

Whereas other aircraft on this list are hugely powerful machines of impressive, streamlined form, the Cygnet is of a simpler and more innocent appearance. It is also tiny, with a length of 20 ft 5 in (6.22 m), a wingspan of 28 ft 0 in (8.53 m) and a height of only 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)

2: Miles Falcon

The supremely attractive Miles Falcon is a 1930s British monoplane, designed by Miles Aircraft for private and touring use. Introduced in 1934, its low-wing, wooden construction and 130-hp de Havilland Gipsy Major engine delivered 145 mph and a 600-mile range. Its sleek, lightweight design made it a favourite among aviators.

Evolving from the Hawk Major, the Falcon featured a refined fuselage for two or three seats and a distinctive elliptical wing for better lift. Its enclosed cabin offered comfort, ideal for cross-country flights. The aircraft’s handling and economy suited flying clubs and private owners alike.

2: Miles Falcon

The Falcon excelled in competitions, notably the 1935 King’s Cup Race, where a modified version, the Falcon Six, hit 175 mph with a 200-hp engine. Its versatility led to its use in the military, with some impressed as trainers during World War II. Its reliability in long-distance flights impressed the military.

Around 36 Falcons were built, influencing later Miles aircraft like the Messenger. Several survive, cherished by vintage enthusiasts. The Falcon’s blend of performance, affordability, and elegant design cemented its legacy in British aviation, reflecting Miles’ innovative approach to general aviation in the pre-war era.

1: Miles Hawk Speed Six

The beautiful Miles Hawk Speed Six epitomised the golden age of air racing. Developed from the Miles Hawk Major, it featured a powerful 200 hp de Havilland Gipsy Six engine, with the front cockpit removed and rear cockpit repositioned for balance.

Only three were built—G-ACTE, G-ADGP, and G-ADOD—each customised or racing. G-ADGP, now preserved by the Shuttleworth Collection, saw extensive modifications, including a reduced 28-foot wingspan and a sleek canopy, achieving speeds around 160 knots.

1: Miles Hawk Speed Six

Piloted by figures like Luis Fontés, it competed in the King’s Cup air races, though not without challenges, such as G-ADOD’s crash in 1936. Postwar, G-ADGP enjoyed a long racing career into the 1970s, later restored in a striking black and cream livery. Its wooden airframe, combining spruce and plywood, was built with the excellent British craftsmanship of the time.

Today, it performs alongside other vintage racers, such as the Percival Mew Gull, at airshows, showcasing its distinctive crackle and pop. The Hawk Speed Six remains an evocative testament to Miles Aircraft’s innovative spirit and the stylish, daring flair of 1930s air racing.