Britain’s Largest Aviation Museum
A must-visit for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, and military fans, Imperial War Museum Duxford is Britain’s largest air museum, home to legendary aircraft, historic hangars, and thrilling airshows. Once a key RAF fighter station in World War II, Duxford is now an interactive museum where visitors can get up close to Spitfires, Concorde, Cold War jets, and even modern military aircraft. Whether you’re exploring historic aircraft, watching live flying displays, or learning about the stories behind wartime aviation, IWM Duxford is a must-visit stop on any self-drive tour of England.
What to See & Do at Imperial War Museum Duxford
• See the Legendary Spitfires & Lancaster Bombers – Get up close to the aircraft that helped win the Battle of Britain, displayed in the original 1940s hangars.
• Step Inside Concorde – Experience one of the most iconic supersonic aircraft ever built, and walk through the cabin of this groundbreaking jet.
• Explore the American Air Museum – Discover the largest collection of U.S. military aircraft outside the USA, including a B-52 Stratofortress and a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird.
• Visit the Battle of Britain Exhibition – Learn about the brave RAF pilots who defended Britain in 1940, through interactive exhibits and personal stories.
• See Live Aircraft in Action – Watch aircraft take off and land at Duxford’s active airfield, where Spitfires and historic warbirds still fly.
• Walk Through the Land Warfare Hall – Explore an impressive collection of tanks, military vehicles, and artillery, from World War I to modern conflicts.
• Visit the Historic Control Tower – Step inside Duxford’s original World War II control tower, where RAF pilots once took orders during key air battles.
• Enjoy the Duxford Air Shows (seasonal) – Experience some of the most thrilling air displays in Europe, featuring Spitfires, Hurricanes, Red Arrows, and more.
• Try a Flight Simulator (seasonal availability) – Feel the adrenaline rush of piloting a Spitfire, jet, or bomber in an immersive flight experience.
• Explore the Museum’s Hangars & Workshops – Walk through historic WWII hangars, where engineers still restore vintage aircraft to flying condition.
With its remarkable aviation history, interactive exhibits, and unforgettable air displays, Imperial War Museum Duxford is an incredible experience. Whether you’re walking through a Concorde, watching live Spitfire flights, or learning about wartime heroes, this museum is a must-see for visitors of all ages.
A Must-See on Your Self-Drive Tour of England
Located in Cambridgeshire, just south of Cambridge, IWM Duxford is an essential stop for aviation lovers, military history enthusiasts, and families looking for an exciting day out. Whether you’re seeing legendary aircraft, exploring wartime hangars, or watching a live air display, this historic airfield is a highlight of any English road trip.
