The museum is situated on the site of the former RAF Hurn, a station that played a key role during the Second World War.
The site includes a de Havilland Vampire T.11, one of the first jet-powered aircraft to enter service with the Royal Air Force.
Visitors can climb into the cockpit of a full-scale Lightning F.1A fighter jet.
The museum features a rare Westland Wasp HAS.1, a shipboard anti-submarine helicopter.
The exhibition includes several cockpit sections salvaged from aircraft that are no longer flight-worthy, allowing for detailed inspection of instrumentation.
The museum serves as a repository for various historical artifacts recovered from the local aviation industry near Bournemouth.
The Bournemouth Aviation Museum is an interactive facility located adjacent to the Bournemouth Airport perimeter. It features a collection of preserved aircraft, including jets, helicopters, and historical cockpit sections that allow for hands-on visitor engagement. The museum displays provide insights into the development of local aviation and the history of Hurn Airport. Visitors can access the flight decks of several iconic aircraft to experience the operational environment of pilots. The collection is housed in a mix of indoor exhibition areas and outdoor display zones.
The elevated viewing platform for a clear vantage point over the outdoor aircraft collection and the active runway.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as the outdoor display area features grass and gravel surfaces.
Bring a light jacket, as the outdoor exhibits are fully exposed to the wind near the airfield.
Check the museum's social media pages before visiting for news on 'cockpit days' when additional aircraft are opened for access.
Do not attempt to walk to the museum from the main terminal; the site is situated in a high-traffic area near the airport perimeter road.
Closed on certain weekdays during off-peak winter months; check local updates for seasonal variance.
