The centre is situated on the perimeter of a still-active military and civilian airport, RAF St Mawgan and Cornwall Airport Newquay.
Many of the exhibits are maintained by a dedicated volunteer team of former ground crew and aviation enthusiasts.
The collection includes rare prototypes and variants of Cold War fighters that saw service during the mid-20th century.
The site hosts interactive flight simulator experiences using historical cockpit sections.
Several aircraft at the museum were specifically selected for their historical connection to Cornish flight operations.
The Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre is a specialized museum located on the site of the former RAF St Mawgan airfield near Newquay. It preserves a significant collection of British jet-age aircraft, focusing on military aviation history in Cornwall. Visitors can access the cockpits of several iconic aircraft, including the Hawker Hunter and English Electric Lightning. The collection features various engines, flight simulators, and personal artifacts from veterans. The museum serves as an educational hub for local aviation history and the Cold War era. Much of the exhibition space is housed within authentic airfield infrastructure, providing a direct link to the operational history of the site.
The flight line area offers clear, unobstructed views of the restored jet fighters against the backdrop of the runway.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven near the aircraft hangars.
Bring a jacket even in summer, as the drafty hangar environments can be significantly cooler than the outdoor temperatures.
Check local flight schedules for Cornwall Airport Newquay, as the noise levels near the museum can vary depending on air traffic.
Assuming all aircraft are indoor; much of the collection is exposed to the elements, so do not visit without checking the weather forecast.
Permanently closed; the centre was forced to vacate its premises at the Cornwall Airport Newquay site due to lease and development issues.
Strictly follow instructions regarding climbing into cockpits; do not touch sensitive instrumentation unless explicitly permitted by staff.
