Imperial War Museum Duxford

They recommend allowing at least half a day for your visit, with time to refuel in the onsite cafes and restaurants.

Things To Do At IWM Duxford

With free activities, interactive displays, huge aircraft to discover and a host of inspiring stories IWM Duxford is a huge day out for all the family! Get involved in their free family activities, which run every weekend and every day in the school holidays. There's plenty of fun to be had across their mile-long site, both across the hangars and out on the airfield. Size up to some giants of aviation, spread your wings across their mile-long site, and see iconic aircraft take to the skies!

Step into the history of aviation at the Imperial War Museum Duxford! Discover the personal stories of those who lived and worked at RAF Duxford and explore giant hangars full of extraordinary collections of aircraft. You'll see some famous aircraft, like the WWII Spitfire, jet fighters, and civil aircraft. You can also walk under the belly of the Vulcan bomber and hop on board the Concorde! Your visit will leave you in awe, no matter how old you are.

Did you know the aerodrome at Duxford was built during WW1 and was one of the earliest Royal Air Force stations?

One of the highlights of the Imperial War Museum Duxford is seeing an array of iconic aircraft up close. From the legendary Lancaster to the awe-inspiring Vulcan, the museum's vast hangars house over 200 aircraft. Did you know it's the largest aviation museum in Britain? Kids and parents alike will be fascinated by these machines' sheer size and history. Imagine the look of awe on your child's face as they stand next to a B-17 Flying Fortress or gaze up at the sleek lines of a Blackbird spy plane! You can also check out the Battle of Britain Exhibition in Hangar 4 - it's well worth checking out!

The museum goes beyond static displays because you'll find all sorts of interactive displays and exhibits designed for everyone to enjoy! The "AirSpace" hangar is packed with hands-on activities that allow kids to learn about the principles of flight, the history of aviation, and the role of aircraft in various conflicts. From climbing into a cockpit to operating flight simulators, these interactive experiences ensure that learning is both fun and immersive. Plus, you'll learn about British aviation history and technological advances from the Cold War; it may be the European centre of Aviation history, but you can also see an outstanding collection of armoured vehicles, command vehicles, naval vessels, artillery and military vehicles!

Family-Friendly Activities

No family day out is complete without some time to run around and burn off energy. The Imperial War Museum Duxford boasts an excellent children's adventure playground. With climbing frames, slides, and plenty of space to explore, it's the perfect spot for younger visitors to let off steam while parents take a breather.

Aviation history enthusiasts will absolutely love to walk onto the historic airfield where the Spitfire first took to the skies. Plus, many classic aircraft fly regularly at IWM Duxford, so don't forget to keep an eye on the sky and see how many you can spot!

There's also an aircraft conservation workshop where you can watch aircraft restoration services. Marvel at the work being done on several notable aircraft, including a rare Second World War Crusader II, Cruiser Tank, and Staghound Armoured Vehicle.

The museum offers specially designed family trails that guide you through the exhibits, providing fun facts and engaging activities. These trails are a fantastic way to keep children entertained while ensuring they learn something new at every turn. Pick up a trail map at the entrance and embark on a journey that's as educational as it is exciting.

There are indoor and outdoor spaces at IWM Duxford so there’s something to do in all weathers! We suggest wearing comfy shoes as there will be lots of walking around.

Special Events and Air Shows

Throughout the year, the Imperial War Museum Duxford hosts various special events and air shows that will delight the whole family. These events often feature thrilling aerial displays, vintage aircraft flybys, and re-enactments that bring history to life in a spectacular fashion.

Gift Shop

Don't forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out. It's packed with aviation-themed toys, books, and souvenirs and is the perfect place to pick up a memento of your visit. Kids will love choosing a model aeroplane or a history book to take home, ensuring the day's adventures continue even after you leave.

Why Imperial War Museum Duxford Is A Must Visit

Whether you're a history buff, an aviation fan, or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, IWM Duxford delivers on all fronts. To get the most out of your visit we recommend you spend at least half a day here – there’s six enormous hangars and more to explore.

- Collection of historic aircraft

- Outstanding aircraft shows and exhibitions

- Exhilarating aerial experiences