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Museums

Royal Air Force Museum Midlands

4.8 · 16,110 reviews
Expansive and educational
Royal Air Force Museum Midlands, Lysander Ave, Cosford, Shifnal TF11 8UP, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The museum houses the only surviving example of the GLOSTER E.28/39, Britain's first jet-powered aircraft.

2

The National Cold War Exhibition is the only place in the UK where visitors can view the complete V-Force bomber trio: the Vulcan, Victor, and Valiant.

3

The museum site at Cosford was an active RAF training school from 1938, training mechanics and flight engineers throughout the Second World War.

4

A rare German Messerschmitt Me 410, captured during the war, is preserved within the collection.

5

The site includes a Cold War-era 'manned' missile control room that offers a glimpse into high-alert nuclear defense infrastructure.

Overview

The Royal Air Force Museum Midlands is a premier aviation collection situated on the site of a former RAF training station in Cosford. It houses an extensive assemblage of historic aircraft, including the world’s oldest Spitfire and the only complete TSR2 prototype ever built. The museum occupies several expansive hangars, showcasing a chronological evolution of flight from early biplanes to Cold War jet interceptors. Visitors can explore the National Cold War Exhibition, a purpose-built facility designed to house large-scale bombers and missiles. Many exhibits feature interactive displays and cockpits that highlight the technological advancements of the 20th century. The site remains a functional aerodrome, occasionally facilitating active flight operations alongside the static displays. Its collection spans over a century of British military aviation history, maintained with meticulous attention to heritage preservation.

Photo spot

The mezzanine level of the National Cold War Exhibition, providing an elevated view of the V-Force bombers.

Insider tips

Allow ample time to walk between the various hangars, as they are spread across a significant campus footprint.

Check the official website for scheduled 'Open Cockpit' events, which provide rare opportunities to see inside specific aircraft.

What to avoid

Attempting to see every single hangar in under two hours; it is physically impossible to view the depth of the collection in that timeframe.

Good to know

Open daily throughout the year, with rare closures during the Christmas period.

Etiquette

Respectful behavior is expected near memorial exhibits; standard museum conduct applies regarding touching aircraft surfaces.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Weekdays during the autumn or spring shoulder seasons to avoid school holiday crowds.
Address
Royal Air Force Museum Midlands, Lysander Ave, Cosford, Shifnal TF11 8UP, United Kingdom
52.645, -2.315
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsV-Force bombers, TSR2 prototype, world's oldest Spitfire
Museum typeMilitary and Aerospace History

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekdays during the autumn or spring shoulder seasons to avoid school holiday crowds..

The mezzanine level of the National Cold War Exhibition, providing an elevated view of the V-Force bombers.

Close by you'll find RAF Cosford Outdoor Stadium, St Bartholomew's Church, Weston Park.