Business Details
45 Years
experience
Explore Historic WWII Aircraft at Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum
Founded in 1981, we are a self-funded charity dedicated to preserving the legacy of Second World War aviation through our historic collection of Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft. Our mission is to engage, educate, and inspire visitors by offering immersive experiences such as lifelike flight simulators and educational talks, all while maintaining free public access to our exhibits. With over four decades of operation, our team combines deep historical expertise with a commitment to community engagement, ensuring the stories of these iconic aircraft and their pilots endure for future generations.We rely entirely on public support, including donations, sponsorships, and the dedication of our volunteers, to sustain our work and enhance visitor experiences. Our location at the historic RAF Manston airfield, a key site in Britain's wartime defence, adds profound context to our collection and programmes.
Services
Flight Simulators
Museum Tours
Educational Talks
Volunteering Opportunities
Conference Room Hire
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We offer free admission to our historic WWII aviation collection.
- Our lifelike simulators use authentic Spitfire and Lancaster controls.
- We provide educational talks and school group programmes.
- Volunteers account for over 90% of our operational workforce.
- Located at the historic RAF Manston Battle of Britain airfield.
Associations and certifications
- Registered Charity No. 1159597
What people say
Immersive simulators
Knowledgeable volunteers
Free admission
Historic collection
Educational value
Services
Flight Simulators
Experience flying a Spitfire or Lancaster using authentic WWII controls in our lifelike simulators. Situated alongside our historic aircraft, these immersive experiences include instructor guidance and replicate cockpit environments. Ideal for aviation enthusiasts seeking hands-on engagement with Second World War aviation history.
Museum Tours
Explore our collection of Second World War artefacts, including the Supermarine Spitfire Mk XVI and Hawker Hurricane IIc. Free guided tours provide context on aircraft combat records, pilot stories, and RAF Manston's strategic role. Educational resources enhance understanding of wartime aviation heritage.
Educational Talks
Attend expert-led talks covering WWII aviation history, aircraft restoration, and pilot experiences. Designed for schools, groups, and enthusiasts, these sessions align with our mission to educate and inspire through interactive learning about Britain's aerial defence legacy.
Volunteering
Join our volunteer team to support museum operations, from shop management to simulator instruction. Roles offer skill development, social engagement, and opportunities to contribute to heritage preservation. Over 90% of our workforce comprises dedicated volunteers maintaining daily operations.
Conference Room Hire
Access our 25-seat conference room equipped with digital projector and connectivity for educational workshops, business meetings, or community events. Proceeds support museum upkeep. Flexible hire options available with minimum donations of 4075 per session.
Questions
Is admission to the museum free?
Yes, we offer free admission to our permanent exhibits, funded entirely by donations and visitor support.
Can I fly both the Spitfire and Lancaster simulators?
Yes, separate bookings are available for each simulator experience with distinct pricing and duration options.
Are there volunteering opportunities available?
We welcome volunteers for roles including simulator instruction, shop management, and educational support. Contact us for details.
Does the museum accept charitable donations?
Yes, donations are vital to our operations. Gift Aid can increase their value by 20% for UK taxpayers.
Can the conference room be hired for private events?
Yes, our 25-seat conference room is available for hire with minimum donations supporting museum upkeep.
Reviews (6)
Tim Webb
Dec 31, 2021
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What an absolute joy this was. This is a museum that relies completely on donations and people doing their Spitfire simulator experience and so that's exactly what I did. It was fantastic. The staff are all fantastic and the sheer volume of information and history on display are brilliant. If you want to help keep a slice of history alive and have a jolly good time to boot I highly recommend visiting.
Christine Bonner
Oct 29, 2021
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Wasn't sure what to expect as I went with a elderly friend. it was fantastic and really enjoyed myself. It a great place for anyone
Steve Childe
Sep 28, 2021
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Good small museum. One Spitfire and one Hurricane on display, with lots of small exhibits and info related to Manston. Free entry and run by volunteers - take some money to make a donation.
Gabriela Klazar
Sep 14, 2021
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Very interesting museum with lot of detail. And it's free, but do donate it deserves it. Plus nice cafe next to it.
Robert Taylor
Sep 13, 2021
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Really enjoyable visit. To be so close to these WWII aitcraft was very thought provoking. I thought I was reasonably knowledgeable but there was loads of information there that I wasn't aware of. No free slots for the simulator but will book early when back in the area. Also had a lovely lunch in the cafe. Definitely recommend a visit.
Sarah Mae
Sep 07, 2021
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What a great museum! My partner & father in law are a huge fan of spitfire and they are so amazed! It's an amazing place to visit! We will come back and bring our son :)
PS: friendly people in there
PS: friendly people in there
