The museum is open to the public every day except December 24th, 25th, 26th and January 1st. Half the aircraft and cockpit sections are displayed under cover, along with the artefact and engine displays, so indifferent weather need not spoil your visit.
The museum’s collection currently stands at 70 aircraft and cockpit sections from across the history of aviation. These include transport, training and reconnaissance aircraft and helicopters and a diverse selection of jet fighters and bombers.
These aircraft feature heavily in the acclaimed National Aviation Heritage Register in which the museum achieved: 10 National Benchmark airframes (the top listing possible) 29 Significant airframes and 18 Noteworthy airframes.
Our small artefact and photographic displays reflect many hitherto un-represented aspects of aviation history:
- Personal effects of a local airman who served in the Royal Flying Corps World War 1 and as a World War 2 aircrew training instructor;
- The history of RAF Winthorpe a World War 2 bomber training base;
- Royal Observer Corps dioramas;
- Survival gear worn by aircrews in the combat environment;
- Post war air to air missile display.
Our collection of aero engines now totals 35, with types on display ranging from the Rolls Royce Merlin to the Napier NRE 11 rocket engine.
Find time to pause for a break in our Café. You can choose from a selection of snacks, sandwiches and a range of hot or cold drinks, reasonably priced these are prepared fresh to order.