Below are details of our aviation heritage sites in the East Anglia area of the MAHN Central region. The air defence of this area, along with North Wales, was assigned to the RAF Fighter Command 12 Group from 1937 and Lincolnshire, with over 50 airfields used for bombing raids, became known as ‘bomber county’.
Please note full details including their address and website for each heritage site are listed in the site directory below the map, in alphabetical order. Some sites open seasonally or irregular hours. Do check their websites for the latest visiting information.
Highlights include:
• World War One bases that defended coastal shipping from submarines, and flew air defence night and day against German airships and bombers
• Bomber, fighter and coastal airfields that played major roles in the bomber offensive against Germany and the maritime war
• The largest concentration of USAAF airfields for the 8th and 9th Air Forces
• Cold War bases for aircraft and missiles that were key parts of the NATO defence network
• Specialist bases involved in the development of technologies such as radar, and the Control & Reporting network for air defence.
You can also find some useful trail booklets covering parts of this area, including our own for East Anglia and others covering Lincolnshire and Norfolk.
Symbol: | Location: |
|---|---|
 | Aviation Museum. |
 | Heritage / Visitor Center. |
 | Aviation Memorial. |
 | Historical Site. |
 | Other / Restoration Site. |
Based in the tower at Thorpe Abbotts airfield, an extensive collection that tells the story of the 100th Bomb Group in words, pictures and objects.
Address: Common Road, Dickleburgh, Diss, Norfolk, IP21 4PH
Phone: 01379 740708
Email: info@100bgmus.org.uk
This exhibition is a commemoration of the contribution made during WWII by the 389th Heavy Bombardment Group 2nd Air Division of the American Airforce. It is housed in the original Chapel/Gymnasium building which is the only major building from the camp area of Hethel Airfield (Station 114) to remain. We now also have 2 recently reconstructed Nissen Huts which have extended our display space and added facilities for visitors. The building features an original wall painting of Christ on the cross in the chapel and of a map of Europe in the Chaplin’s quarters next door. The exhibits include memorabilia, uniforms, decorations, combat records, photographs, etc.; many items donated by Veterans or their families. We also have a some exhibits relating to the RAF in WW2 and some more modern exhibits relating to military history in general.…Read more
Address: The Old Chapel, Potash Farm. Potash Lane, Hethel, Norwich, Norfolk, NR14 8EY
Phone: 01508 571 302
Email: hethel389@hotmail.co.uk
Located at Old Buckenham airfield, wartime home to the 454rd BG. Display halls and restoration project on 12 acres of the WWII site, including the creation of a Memorial Park. The museum is home to the largest collection of 453rd memorabilia in the world and includes the 8th Air Force Heritage Gallery, of which the 453rd were a part. …Read more
Address: The Pat Ramm Building, Old Buckenham Airfield, Abbey Road, Old Buckenham, Norfolk, NR17 1PU
Phone: 01953 860 806 select option 7
Email: airfield@oldbuck.com
Dedicated to the memory of those who served in the 93rd Bombardment Group (H) of the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF), known as 'The Travelling Circus', or 'Ted's Travelling Circus'. Flying the B-24 Liberator from Hardwick airfield.The museum is on the site of the former Hardwick airfield and items are located in four original Nissen (Quonset) huts, three of which have been renovated, and one brick building. Exhibits are housed in the buildings and on OPEN DAYS are displayed outside if the weather is fine. You can touch and operate some of the exhibits, such as a hand-cranked siren, or ride the WWII bicycle.Hut 1 - The Mighty Eighth... displays items of USAAF memorabilia and artefacts. Many parts on show were recovered from P51 Mustang, P47 Thunderbolt, P38 Lightning, B17 Flying Fortress and B24 Liberator crash sites. The Large items such as engines and small parts like instruments are on show.Hut 2 - 93rd and RAF Memorial... displays relating to the 93rd Bomb Group, including original photographs and documentation. The RAF Memorial Room has uniforms and parts large and small, including a Lancaster wing tip and Stirling tailplane.Hut 3 - 489th Bomb Group... contains a Red Cross cabinet, an American uniform cabinet and one containing a B24 liberator original radio operator section - awesome !Brick Building - Mess (Chow) HallThere were two brick buildings on the 93rd Bomb Group Museum's site, both in poor condition. One has been used to restore the other so there is now just one brick building in good condition.This is the mess hall for visitors on OPEN DAYS and a reception centre.Next to the museum is a private commercial airstrip (Hardwick Warbirds). One of the original runways (13-31) of the main site is used as another private airstrip. On museum open days there are sometimes co-ordinated events on either airstrip as well as other displays e.g. classic cars, military vehicles.…Read more
Address: Hardwick airfield, Denton Road, Topcroft, Bungay, Norfolk, NR35 2BG
Phone: 01508 482 263
Email: hardwickusaaf@gmail.com
The Hospital buildings were purchased from a local farmer by Tony and Val Albrow. The buildings were employed for various uses; firstly as chicken sheds, then as a pig unit, a grain store and finally as a mushroom farm for 18 years. Tony and Val brought the old hospital with the view to restore it as a museum dedicated to The 95th Bomb Group. The 95th flew 321 combat missions from 13th May 1943, to 20th April 1945, completed 8,625 sorties and dropped 19,769 tons of bombs using 359 B-17 Flying Fortresses. They flew two "Chowhound" missions to feed the starving Dutch people dropping 465 tons of food and supplies in May 1945 and four "Revival" missions to return POW's and Displaced persons. With an ongoing restoration there is always plenty to do, however fourteen of the fifteen rooms are now open with many displays. Some rooms are restored to their original state as if the 95th were still an operating group. Others have exhibits and displays to view. Please check website for the latest opening information.…Read more
Address: Shingle Hill, Denham, Eye, Suffolk IP21 5EU
Phone: 01379 870 514
Email: tony@albrow.org
www.95thbghospitalmuseum.co.uk
Large collection of 20th century military drawings, photos and plans. The Facility also hosts several military collections including the RAF Alconbury Heritage Collection.
Address: Building 1008, Alconbury Weald, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE28 4WX
Email: enquiries@airfieldresearchgroup.org.uk
www.airfieldresearchgroup.org.uk
The American Library is a war memorial and a public library. You can see the 2nd Air Division Roll of Honor and learn more about the Division through our exhibition and specialist book collection. We have over 3,000 books, e-books and audio books in our general collection including non-fiction on all aspects of American life, history and culture as well as the best in classic and contemporary fiction. We run a varied events and education programme and offer a remote research service for 2nd Air Division enquiries. Our book stock and programming reflect the amazing diversity of American life. We have 30,000 original photographs, letters, memoirs and other documents in our archive where you can discover more about the 2nd Air Division and World War Two in the East of England: https://digitalarchive.2ndair.org.uk/. We are free to visit and books can be borrowed with a Norfolk Library and Information Service card. The American Library also maintains smaller collections where the 2nd Air Division Combat Wings were located at Attleborough, Dereham, Long Stratton and Sprowston Libraries.…Read more
Address: Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, The Forum, Norwich, Norfolk, UK, NR21AW
Phone: 0044 (0)1603 774747
Visitors to Bawdsey Radar Transmitter Block can discover the story of the men and women and the work they did, in top secret conditions, to develop radar. Operational radar was born at Bawdsey and contributed very significantly to the successful outcome of the Battle of Britain.…Read more
Address: Bawdsey Radar, Transmitter Block, Bawdsey, Suffolk IP12 3BA
Phone: 07821 162 879
Email: info@bawdseyradar.org.uk
Operated and administered by volunteers from Bentwaters Aviation Society (a registered charity), the BCWM portrays the history of RAF Bentwaters and RAF Woodbridge from the Second World War through to when the USAF withdrew from both bases in 1993.The most important period of operation of the ‘Twin-Bases’ was during the Cold War and, as the Museum’s name suggests, this is the main focus of the exhibits. Two key rooms in the Command Post have been restored to an operational appearance. These rooms are the Battle Cabin and the War Operations Room. Although unmanned during normal day-to-day operations, they would have been the two most important rooms during exercise and wartime. Additional rooms have been turned into ‘themed’ exhibitions. These cover the history of Bentwaters and Woodbridge in general, Special Operations units at Woodbridge, the ‘Aggressor’ unit at Bentwaters and a miscellaneous exhibition room which includes a Cold War timeline.The Museum also includes a multimedia room where visitors can expect to see video presentations and film shows.…Read more
Address: Building 134, Bentwaters Parks, Rendlesham, Woodbridge, IP12 2TW
Phone: 07588 877020
Email: info@bcwm.org.uk
The Museum was opened in 2009 to commemorate the sometimes forgotten role of the airfield at Bottisham in World War Two. It is the only UK museum dedicated to the Royal Air Force, United States 8th Army Air Force and Belgian Air Forces. We are now operating out of the last remaining airfield buildings to exist within the airfield’s original perimeter. A Nissen Hut was erected in the original location of one that was there in 2016. The restoration of the original buildings was completed in 2020. The museum is now fully functioning with modern facilities including a coffee shop and shop.…Read more
Address: Wilbraham Road, Cambridge CB25 9BU
Phone: 01223 813952
Email: info@bottishamairfieldmuseum.org.uk
www.bottishamairfieldmuseum.org.uk/
The Museum tells the story of the Airfield from 1942 until 1965 and how it affected a small village.
Address: Langham lane, Langham, Near Colchester, Essex, CO4 5NW
Email: bahg2000@gmail.com
Try out the cockpits of the Canberra PR.9 and discover the roles of one of the RAF;’s greatest Cold War aircraft at the Canberra Heritage Trust (CHT) building at West Raynham. The CHT is an educational and research facility to record, preserve and educate on the role of the Canberra in Royal Air Force (RAF) and overseas service from 1951 to 2006.The Canberra Heritage Trust displays enable visitors to get a feel for this most iconic of British aircraft, from sittign in a cockpit, to getting close up with the Avon engines and other key parts of the aircraft. Visitors to the Open Days have the chance to meet ex Canberrra aircrew and groundcrew and learn about the operational life of the aircraft through stories and experience.The CHT buidling is open a number of days each month, check out the Facebook page for the latest information. The CHT also has a display, and ist archive of Canberra reference publications, which are open for sturdy, in the West Raynham SHQ building. …Read more
Address: Blenheim Way, West Raynham Industrial Park, Norfolk, NR21 7PL
Email: info@canberraheritage.co.uk
The Museum is a charity dedicated to the preservation, and presentation to the public of the rich aviation history of the County of Norfolk. It is situated adjacent to Norwich International Airport on the Broadland Northway distributor road. The site was originally part of RAF Horsham St Faith wartime airfield. It incorporates numerous Aircraft, cockpit sections, historic artefacts and vast archive. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in escorted tours inside some of our iconic aircraft and also relax and enjoy refreshments in the new cafe facility. Please note the availability of tours may vary from day to day. …Read more
Address: Old Norwich Road, Horsham St. Faith, Norwich, Norfolk NR10 3JF
Phone: 01603 893080
Email: admin@cnam.org.uk
Imperial War Museum Duxford is a branch of the Imperial War Museum near Duxford in Cambridgeshire, England. Europe's largest aviation museum, Duxford houses the museum's large exhibits, including nearly 200 aircraft, military vehicles, artillery and minor naval vessels in seven main exhibition buildings. Walk through the same hangars and buildings as those who served at RAF Duxford. See aircraft take to the skies from the airfield where Spitfires first flew. Get up close to over a century of aviation. Entry also includes access to the American Air Museum where you can discover more about the United States' aviation history from the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress used during the Second World War to the remotely piloted Predator used in present day conflict.…Read more
Address: Duxford Airfield, Duxford, Cambridgeshire CB22 4QR
Phone: 0207 416 5000
www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford
RAF Langham was an active airfield for 18 years, playing a key role in both World War 2 and the Cold War. Our lively displays and hands-on activities make Langham Dome a fantastic place to visit with the whole family. Be inspired by our story, and marvel at the ingenious way in which the Dome solved a perplexing problem in desperate times…- Walk in the footsteps of the service men and women who were stationed at Langham during and after World War 2 and hear stories of their bravery and sacrifice. - Enjoy our thought-provoking displays and learn more about the Dome from our friendly and knowledgeable volunteers. Why not try your hand at Morse code using our Wellington bomber radio. - Find out about Langham pilot Jeff Rounce, a local man who won the RAF’s Distinguished Flying Cross for bravery in World War 2. - Explore an interactive model of the airfield; Play our table-top board games to find out more about military missions and daily life at RAF Langham. - See what you look like in uniform in our dressing up locker.…Read more
Address: Langham Dome, Langham Rd, Cockthorpe, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7BP
Phone: 01328 830 169
Email: admin@langhamdome.org
Located in the control tower at RAF Martlesham Heath. The site has a long history of flight research and development from the Great War to the jet era. Martlesham was opened in 1917 as a testing and evaluation station and became the Aeroplane and Armaments Experimental Establishment before being moved to Boscombe Down at the outbreak of WW2 and in 1943 became the base for USAF 356th Fighter Group.…Read more
Address: Behind Parkers Place, off Eagle Way, Martlesham Heath, Suffolk IP5 3UZ
Phone: 0770 7711104
Email: secretary@mhas.org.uk
A substantial collection of artefacts, documents, films, documents and pictures of RAF and USAAF Watton 1939-1992.
Address: Wayland Hall, Middle Street, Watton, Norfolk IP25 6AG
Phone: 01953 797060
Email: info@museum4watton.org.uk
New Farm Aviation Heritage Museum presents an extensive range of artefacts and information to the public as part of its commitment to the preservation of the history of aviation and militaria in the East Anglia region.We have wreckage attributed to 160 aircraft of 56 types, and exclusive artefacts detected on RAF Rackheath – the 467th Bomb Group.…Read more
Address: New Farm Aviation, Buxton Road, Frettenham, NR12 7NG
Phone: 01603 897732; mobile 17516 223741
Email: trevorhewitt@hotmail.co.uk
www.facebook.com/newfarmaviation
Late in 1972, a few local enthusiasts met and decided that steps should be taken to record something of the history of aviation in the Eastern counties, and preserve aircraft and artefacts. A society was formed early the following year and activities commenced; a Nissen hut behind the Flixton post office soon became the base. In May 1976, the (now) museum was officially opened by the late Wing Commander Ken Wallis who went on to become President.A larger building was soon required for the growing collection and efforts to find a suitable site on or around the Bungay/Flixton airfield were rewarded when a barn next to the Flixton Buck Inn was offered, along with the use of a meadow for aircraft. When further expansion needs arose they were met with the purchase in 1984 of almost 8 acres of land from the owners of the Buck Inn, and work commenced on sourcing and erecting buildings and a hangar. The barn was eventually vacated in 1990.The theme of the collection has grown from 1) the occupation of the airfield by the 446th Bomb Group USAAF, followed briefly by the Fleet Air Arm and then the Royal Air Force, and 2) aviation in the East of England. These broad headings have permitted a very varied collection of aircraft and artefacts to be gathered and displayed, and virtually everything has been donated by visitors. The collection continues to grow and when appropriate a new building is erected, although unused space is becoming scarce owing to the need to provide for car parking. …Read more
Address: The St, Flixton, Bungay NR35 1NZ
Phone: 01986 896 644
Email: nsam.flixton@gmail.com
The museum is situated in the village of North Weald at what was the main entrance to the former Royal Air Force North Weald fighter base. The station started military flight operations for the Royal Flying Corps in 1916 and Royal Air Force Operations finally stood down in 1958. The airfield remains in use as a civilian flying field.Your first experience of the site will be the arc of Portland Stone encircling the Norwegian obelisk erected outside the museum as the RAF North Weald Memorial in 2000. The unique Obelisk was a gift to the people of the village in 1952 from the people of Norway. It was to show gratitude to the people of North Weald for their wartime association with the Royal Norwegian Air Force based there. The Memorial commemorates all those who gave their lives, the museum tells their stories. A bronze cabinet set into the stone wall contains a list of their names and is accessible even when the museum is closed. On entering the museum you will find yourself in a reception area lit by a magnificent stained glass window commemorating all those who served at North Weald. This was installed in 2008.On the ground floor and readily accessible to people with disabilities the collections are set out in five themed rooms and an interconnecting corridor. The story of much bravery, suffering and all that is best in the human spirit is told through a collection of images and artefacts in the four main exhibit rooms.…Read more
Address: Ad Astra House, Hurricane Way, North Weald Bassett, Epping, Essex CM16 6AA
Phone: 01992 523010
Email: secretary@nwamuseum.co.uk
Parham Airfield Museum is situated on an old World War II USAAF Station. The museum consists of two parts, The 390th Bomb Group Memorial Air Museum which pays tribute to the 743 American servicemen killed or ‘missing in action’ from this airfield and the further 754 who were taken as Prisoners of War. The Museum of the British Resistance Organisation provides an insight into ‘Britain’s Secret Army’ with a unique replica secret underground bunker.…Read more
Address: Parham Airfield, Parham, Framlingham, Suffolk IP13 9AF
Phone: 01728 621373 (answerphone)
Email: parhamairfield@yahoo.co.uk
www.parhamairfieldmuseum.co.uk
RAF Barnham was built in the early 1950’s to maintain Britain’s first nuclear bombs. Blue Danube and Red Beard. The site has been restored over the last 10 years.Tours by arrangement with Keith Eldred email: kw.eldred@btinternet.com…Read more
Address: RAF Barnham No.94 MU, Thetford, Norfolk.
Email: kw.eldred@btinternet.com
Located on one of the best-preserved former RAF stations in East Anglia the Heritage Centre explores the history of RAF Bircham Newton from the First World War to the Cold War. It conserves and displays the memorabilia of the former RAF station and its satellite airfields and is operated and maintained by a small team of volunteers, many of whom are ex-service personnel or have strong service connections. The Centre has become a focus for the history of these former RAF stations as well as an important addition to the local heritage, available to the general public and to the staff and students of the National Construction College (where the Centre is based) and its visitors. It is also available to school parties and students of aviation and local history, and as a venue for illustrated talks.Entrance and parking are free. Please see the website, find us on Facebook (RAF Bircham Newton Heritage Centre) or use the contact details below to check on availability and opening times. Jamie Heffer as an alternative point of contact and can be reached on 07807 098 348. …Read more
Address: The National Construction College, Bircham Newton, Norfolk PE31 6RH
Phone: 07807 098 348
Email: jamie_heffer@hotmail.co.uk
www.facebook.com/groups/455568478629653/
Bradwell started off as a small grass aerodrome serving the firing range on the Dengie Peninsula, in the late 1930’s. In 1942 the aerodrome was expanded and became a large bases for 2,500 personnel who were to fly intruder missions to the continent and provide refuge for bombers returning with damage, casualties and short of fuel.To enable this level of activity there were many career opportunities for both men and women. This included aircraft maintenance, radio control, catering, motor transport and may more. Women were to fill all roles, apart from combat. Today the RAF is fully inclusive. RAF Bradwell Bay was host to many different squadrons up to the end of the war, with a variety of aircraft types including Boston Havocs’, Mosquito’s, Spitfire’s, Tempest’s, Blenheim’s and Beaufighter’s. Other aircraft were based there for training and administrative purposes such as Miles Magisters, De-Havilland Dominies, Tiger Moths. At sometimes Bradwell Bay would have been an aeroplane spotter’s paradise. Stationed at RAF Bradwell Bay, at different times, during WW2 were 418, 23, 29, 157, 247, 310, 312, 313, 56, 198, 488, 605, 219, 278, 126, 124, 501, 151, 287, 3, 64, 309, 611, 456, 125, 85, 25 and 19 squadrons.. Some parts of the airfield survive including the runways and control tower. However, the site is under threat of being demolished to make way for a second nuclear power station.As a group we are working to preserve as much as is possible, including building an archive to preserve memories and stories. We are currently fundraising to build a museum close to the unusual memorial and have an exhibition in the, nearby, Othona Centre. We are open summer weekends.Some parts of the airfield survive including the runways and control tower. However, the site is under threat of being demolished to make way for a second nuclear power station. As a group we are working to preserve as much as is possible, including building an archive to preserve memories and stories.Currently, we have an exhibition about the RAF at Bradwell Bay at The Othona Community, East End Road, Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex, CM0 7PNOpen most weekends but best to phone 07842 713051.Park at St Peter's Chapel (worth visiting) and walk along the sea wall.Disabled visitors call us and we can arrange parking nearby.…Read more
Address: 9 Trusses Rd, Bradwell-on-Sea, Southminster, Essex, CM0 7QF.
Phone: 07842 713051
Email: info@rafbradwellbay.co.uk
Housed in the iconic former Main Guardroom tells the story of the only Battle of Britain Station to operate fighter aircraft throughout its 66 years of history.
Address: The Former Guardroom, Building 40 Scottow Enterprise Park, Lamas-Scottow Road, Badersfield, Scottow, Norwich, Norfolk NR10 5FB
Phone: 07933 396021
Email: rafscht@btinternet.com
Experience the country's only original Cold War Operations Room, which formed a critical link in the RAF's Command and Control System in the years following WW2. A visit to the museum will give you a comprehensive insight into how Cold War air defence operations were carried out during those tense and dangerous times as the RAF faced the might of the Soviet Air Force and the ever-present threat of nuclear war. Housed entirely in RAF buildings including the original hardened Grade II listed 1942 radar operations building, the Museum has 24 exhibition rooms and over 10,000 display items. It provides a unique window into the history of radar covering the period from WWII to the Cold War. …Read more
Address: Birds Lane, Neatishead, Norfolk, NR12 8YB
Phone: 01692 631485
Email: manager@radarmuseum.co.uk
The RAF Marham Aviation Heritage Centre was born out of the old on base Station History Room which was set up in the 1980's. Since 2013 the historic collection and archive moved to the decommissioned church outside the base perimeter which is close to the main guardroom. The displayed collection and historic archive currently holds in the region of 15,000 items, from photographs to aircraft parts which pertain to either the history of RAF Marham, the Royal Air Force and Aviation in East Anglia or items from the general history of the RAF from the First World War to present day. The Centre can also provide a research facility for authors, history groups or family members wishing to trace wartime family members. We provide guided tours of the Centre for History Groups, Schools, Colleges, Academies, Veteran Groups and Squadron Associations. Please see the website or use the contact details to check on availability and opening times. Entrance is Free, yet we are a registered Charity and rely on donations to enable us to improve our visitor experience. Please note - there is no access to the active side of the operational airbase from the centre. …Read more
Address: RAF Marham, Kings Lynn, Norfolk PE33 9NP
Phone: 01760 338091
Email: marham.aviation.heritage@gmail.com
Tucked away in a quiet corner of North Norfolk are the remains of a secret WWII bomber base. When you pass through the area today you would be forgiven for thinking the large hangars and nissen huts are old agricultural buildings, but these old structures hold a fascinating history which is mostly forgotten.There are plans afoot to change all that. Nigel Morter and Claire Nugent became hooked on the history of the airfield when they bought the old Control Tower in 2011. While converting The Control Tower into a period style Art Deco Bed and Breakfast they also started to uncover the much overlooked history of the airfield.…Read more
Address: Bunkers Hill, Egmere, Walsingham, Norfolk, NR22 6AZ
Phone: 01328 821 574
Email: mail@controltowerstays.com
Royal Air Force Oulton was a bomber base that was created on the Blickling Estate in 1939 and undertook work vital to the war effort before being closed for operations in 1946, and finally decommissioned in 1949. Remains of the airfield can still be seen in Oulton Street, just over a mile from Blickling Hall itself. The Hall and wider estate were requisitioned during this period. First as a successful member of 2 Group, RAF, and latterly as part of 100 Group, RAF, the station was instrumental in winning the war – as documented by the Luftwaffe themselves. The aircraft flown from the station ranged from Blenheim medium bombers to the famous Fortress heavy bomber. Since 1995, the Blickling Estate has housed an ever-growing collection of objects, documents and oral histories relating to the working life of RAF Oulton. The museum now occupies the same space that was used as accommodation for leading Air Crew and Wing Sergeants during the war. We know this because of the records we have and the graffiti they left us. We have also created a mock ‘crew room’. Whilst on operations, crews would spend time before and after each flight in a room designed to lower stress and improve morale. It also became an informal office for men writing letters and doing minor chores. We have added a large case to ours – a case we found on site, in pieces, giving us a nice jigsaw puzzle to solve.…Read more
Address: Blickling Estate, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6NF
Phone: 01263738030
Email: blickling@nationaltrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/blickling-estate/raf-oulton-museum-at-blickling-estate
The RAF Regiment Heritage Centre raise the profile of the Corps with the General Service Community and the public at large by providing a focal point for the collection of artefacts and documents appertaining to, and acquired by, the RAF Regiment and its Associated Forces.Open Tuesday & Wednesday 9am-3pm.…Read more
Address: RAF Regiment Heritage Centre, RAF Honington, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 1EE.
Phone: 01359 237 865
The RAF Sculthorpe Heritage Centre tells the history and stories of North Norfolks only USAF atomic base. Once the largest and most strategically important American airbase, home to over 10,000 and the atomic deterrent for over a decade against the Soviet Union. The RAF Sculthorpe Heritage Centre relives the 50 year history of this once great base.We have a unique collection of Sculthorpe and USAF memorabilia including a George Medal awarded to an American Serviceman for his actions in the 1953 floods, one of only two to be awarded peacetime to an American. We also are the only Aviation Heritage Centre to have parts of a RB-66 aircraft on display including the J-71 Alison jet engine. …Read more
Address: Green Park Rural Centre, Chapel Street, Wicken Green, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 7RR
Phone: 07766 715 548
Email: rshc1955@gmail.com
www.rafsculthorpeheritagecentre.org/
The museum is run by a group of dedicated volunteers who curate, maintain, fund raise and a whole lot of other work in the background to keep this museum and the memorials worthy to the memory of those that served here. Recently we have been able to expand the displays. But again, there is still much to do.…Read more
Address: 25 Ridgewell Rd Halstead Great Yeldham - Essex CO9 4RG.
Email: paulgbingley@aol.com
Rougham Control Tower is a small, friendly, volunteer run Museum, dedicated to keeping the memories and history alive of the American Airmen/women who served in the 94th BG of the USAAF 8th Air Force during WWII. The Airfield was historically called RAF Bury St Edmunds, and is situated to the North of Rougham village between what is now the A14 trunk road (formerly the A45). …Read more
Address: Rougham Tower Association, Rougham Tower Avenue, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP32 7QB
Phone: 07931 971771
Station 146: Seething Control Tower Museum, is housed in the renovated Control Tower pays tribute to the 448th Bomb Group USAAF who flew B24 Liberator heavy bombers from this airfield from 1943 - 1945.…Read more
Address: Seething Control Tower, Toad Lane, Seething, Norfolk NR35 2EQ
Email: info@448bombgroup.co.uk
The Short Stirling was the RAF’s first operational four-engine bomber and in its day was an advanced and formidable aeroplane. History has been unkind to the Stirling and as far as we are aware, not a single example survives, out of the 2383 constructed. The Stirling Aircraft Project aims to remedy this by constructing a forward fuselage section incorporating the main crew stations as a lasting tribute to the people who designed, built, flew and maintained this historic aircraft.…Read more
Address: Newstead, Spur Road, Barnham Broom, Norfolk, NR9 4BY
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome. A key part of the story of Essex, aviation heritage and early 20th century British and European history. Its roots are in the darkest days of the Great War and now it is celebrated as a vital centre of culture, conservation and community wellbeing. It lies to the east of Chelmsford and west of Maldon, in the Essex heartland. It includes the largest known surviving group of RFC buildings on an WW1 aerodrome in Europe. But it is so much more. A time-capsule of early-Modern architecture, this bustling renovation project is a popular aerodrome and museum, packed with galleries and exhibitions. It’s an award-winning centre for community volunteering, housing a growing wealth of skills, research and knowledge. Opened in 1916 as home to B Flight of No 37(HD) Squadron, Royal Flying Corps, the aerodrome oversaw the birth of the Air Defence of Great Britain in response to the first raids by Zeppelins and Gotha bombers on London and the Southeast. It played a key role in the Battle for Britain (the first London Blitz) the following year. It was still flying operational sorties when the Royal Flying Corps transitioned to the Royal Air Force on 1 April 1918. During its operational life as an interceptor station, RAF Stow Maries welcomed decorated pilots and a huge range of aircraft, from the venerable BE2e and Avro 504k to the cutting-edge Sopwith Snipe. It continued in its dedicated role until Spring 1919 – when the RAF closed its doors forever. The site reverted to Flambird’s Farm and its age-old farming role. The existing buildings were repurposed or converted to residential & agricultural use and the airfield turned over to pasture. Left undisturbed, the original occupant of the site – Nature - returned to reclaim it. The Aerodrome and its 93 Acre Conservation zone has significant natural heritage value. A member of Natural England’s Entry and Higher Level Environmental Stewardship scheme as well as a partners such as the Woodland Trust and Essex Wildlife Trust, our ponds and meadows support declining farmland species such as brown hare, corn bunting, yellowhammer and a variety of Raptor species, including Kestrels, and Barn owls. Endangered and rare species such as Water Voles and Badgers prosper. The Aerodrome was designated a conservation area in 2009. In 2012 all 23 surviving buildings were listed Grade II*. Due to the site’s condition and importance, it is also included on the English Heritage “Buildings at Risk Register”. In late 2012 the aerodrome was put up for sale and a campaign led by Essex County and Maldon District Councils led to the acquisition of the site for the nation in 2013, following a generous grant from the Heritage Memorial Fund. It was placed in the care of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome Ltd, (SMGWA) a purpose-created charity. Since the charity’s inauguration, the site has leapt forward. With an army of volunteers, work has been ceaseless, even in the face of a pandemic. Our hangars are filled with historic and more modern aircraft. The Airmen’s Mess Cafe provides everything from snacks and drinks to full Black-tie events. Our exciting retail space offers a great range of local products as well as books, reproduction items, gifts and souvenirs, sparking interest and nostalgia. Meanwhile, our popular and award-winning exhibitions tell the story of the site and those connected to it. Our exhibitions explain the stories of the original Royal Flying Corps, the men and women that made it work and then how they took it forward in the form of the Royal Air Force. The untold truth of the huge efforts made by women and girls - including the Top-Secret work done by both! - are explored. We explore the technological developments, the first in the world of their kind, as well as our growing collection of Period aircraft. We hold official Arts Council England Accredited Museum status. Our curatorial and award-winning exhibition teams have a significant reputation with national partners such as Imperial War Museums and the Royal Air Force Museum. Moreover, we have strong relationships with our supporters— including Historic England, National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Garfield Weston Foundation, Pilgrims Trust and the Association of Independent Museums. …Read more
Address: Hackman’s Lane, Purleigh, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 6RN
Email: info@stowmaries.org.uk
The Vulcan Restoration Trust owns Avro Vulcan B2 XL426, one of only three examples remaining in ‘live’ condition. The Trust holds Open Days and other special events throughout the year, including engine runs and taxi demonstrations. Please refer to our website for details. XL426 is located airside at a working airport and is, therefore, only accessible during these events or by special arrangement. Built in 1962, XL426 has been at Southend since her retirement from the Royal Air Force in 1986. Today she is maintained in taxiable condition by an entirely volunteer team. …Read more
Address: Hangar 5, London Southend Airport, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 6YF
Email: info@avrovulcan.com
The Waterbeach Military Heritage Museum is a collection of artefacts and photographs of the RAF units since 1941 to 1966 and 39 Royal Engineers from 1966 to 2013 saving the history and heritage of the Airfield and Barracks.Two rooms in the museum are devoted to the RAF. Much of the material has been donated by former members of 514 Squadron - who still have their annual reunion in Waterbeach. During the reunion either the restored Lancaster or another aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight often flies over Waterbeach. Another two rooms in the museum are devoted to the Royal Engineers, who were at Waterbeach from 1966 to 2013.The Museum (registered charity No. (except August) 1164795) is open on the first Wednesday and first Sunday of the months, March to October. Also open on all third Sundays of the year (except August) when there is additionally a Community Market in the Community rooms in and around outside of the same building.The museum will open by appointment for people who request it when visiting the area, form home or abroad. Visitors are accompanied.…Read more
Address: Waterbeach Barracks Denny End Road Waterbeach, Cambridge, CB25 9PA.
Phone: 01223 861 846 (Chairman’s home)
Email: waterbeachmilitarymuseum@waterbeach.org
www.waterbeachmilitarymuseum.org.uk
The Wattisham Airfield Station Museum opened in November 1991. The museum is housed in the original station chapel built by the USAAF in 1943.Inside the museum you can see an extensive photographic record, artefacts, uniforms, equipment and memorabilia. You may also visit our Heritage Workshop located within a former Cold War Hardened Aircraft Shelter (HAS) where we are refurbishing our historic aircraft.This building is sited at a different location within the airfield and visitors will be escorted across.In late 2003 the Wattisham Airfield Museum Committee decided that a Memorial was needed to commemorate all the personnel who had lost their lives while stationed at Wattisham during the Second World War. Geoff Pleasance, an aviation artist, was asked to design the memorial. Land, part of the WWII dispersal site, was kindly donated by the Bulls, a local farming family, and planning permission was granted. Members of the committee set about clearing the concrete rubble, trees and shrubs left from previous runway construction.Once completed the site was re-landscaped and a concrete foundation slab was pored. Many fundraising events took place in 2004 and, along with kind donations; the granite boulder was purchased and went to the stone masons for carving. On Sunday 15th May 2005 the Memorial was unveiled, attended by both British and American ex-service men, their families and friends.…Read more
Address: Wattisham Station Heritage Museum, Force Headquarters, Wattisham Flying Station, IP7 7RA.
www.wattishamstationheritage.com
The tower stands testament to a historic RAF Station. It is our intention to preserve and convey the rich history of RAF West Raynham as part of our responsibilities here at the tower. The RAF West Raynham Heritage Collection tells the story of this Expansion Period station, from the pre war years, through WW2 and the Cold war, closure and the present.We open our doors periodically. Entry is free and visitors can explore The heritage collection, ground floor and tower grounds. The cafe is opened for refreshments. For a small additional fee, guided tours are conducted on the roof, offering fantastic views and a concise lecture of the history of the station.…Read more
Address: West Raynham Control Tower, Blenheim Way, West Raynham, Norfolk, NR21 7PL.
Phone: 07707 292 906