National Museum of Flight Edinburgh
Step aboard the legendary Concorde and explore a vast collection of aircraft, from supersonic jets to historic WW2 planes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
National Museum of Flight Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step aboard the legendary Concorde and explore a vast collection of aircraft, from supersonic jets to historic WW2 planes.
"The Concorde still took my breath away, even after seeing the Saturn V rocket."
Check Aircraft Access Times
Boarding for some planes like Concorde has specific times. Arrive early or check the schedule! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking between hangars and outdoor exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Concorde Experience
Main Hangar
Step aboard the iconic supersonic jet and feel the history of supersonic travel. A truly breathtaking sight.
NASA Space Shuttle Trainer
Main Hangar
See where astronauts trained for shuttle missions and experience a piece of space exploration history.
Interactive Science Exhibits
Interactive Hangar
Engaging displays perfect for all ages, making aviation science fun and accessible for families.
WW2 Buildings
Outdoor Area
Explore preserved World War 2 buildings, offering a glimpse into RAF history and wartime aviation.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Aircraft Access
Plan for a Full Day of Aviation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Aircraft Access Times
Boarding for some planes like Concorde has specific times. Arrive early or check the schedule! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking between hangars and outdoor exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Interactive Fun for Kids
The science hangar is a hit with children, offering hands-on learning. :child:
Consider a Flight Experience
Nearby East of Scotland Microlights offers flight vouchers. :airplane:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Aircraft Access Times
Boarding for some planes like Concorde has specific times. Arrive early or check the schedule! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking between hangars and outdoor exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Interactive Fun for Kids
The science hangar is a hit with children, offering hands-on learning. :child:
Consider a Flight Experience
Nearby East of Scotland Microlights offers flight vouchers. :airplane:
Wet Day Savior
A great indoor option when the Scottish weather isn't cooperating. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Museum of Flight Edinburgh for its impressive collection, especially the iconic Concorde, which offers a unique boarding experience. The interactive exhibits are a hit with families, and the historical WW2 buildings add another layer of interest. While the cafe food is decent, some found access to certain aircraft limited during their visit.
"I really enjoyed the visit as I had been fascinated by Concorde as a kid. It was amazing to be able to step aboard an aircraft that has been consigned to history. The information boards were really quite interesting. The other two planes outside the hangars weren’t open to visitors at the time I was there (July, 2025) though, from signage, it seemed they had been in the past. Staff were nice."
Keith Maguire
"An interesting walk around some of the planes I went on decades ago and many I didn't. The star attraction was Concorde. There's a good science part which is quite interactive so it works well for children and adults. The cafe food is fine and prices are not extortionate compared with similar attractions. The location is within easy reach of many locations, especially North Berwick and Edinburgh. There is quite a bit of walking to do between buildings (flat site) so fine days are better. Access to the inside of planes is by stairs."
Bryan Gordon
"Great to visit on a wet day if stuck for places to go. Missed the tour of the conservation hangar so check times on arrival. Not just a great selection of aircraft on view but for those who like RAF history the preserved WW2 buildings are excellent."
Dave Bro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in East Lothian, about a 40-minute drive from Edinburgh. Public transport options include buses that run from the city center. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also available.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the National Museum of Flight Edinburgh for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, you can take a bus from Edinburgh city center, which is easily accessible from Waverley station. The journey typically takes around 40 minutes.
Driving is often the most convenient way to reach the museum, offering flexibility. Alternatively, public buses provide a good option for those relying on public transport.
Yes, the museum is located near North Berwick and Edinburgh, making it a good base for exploring the surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Museum of Flight website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special closures.
Admission fees apply, but the museum is generally considered good value for money, especially considering the extensive collection. Check their website for current ticket prices.
It is often recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your entry and potentially save time.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or families. It's advisable to check the museum's website or inquire at the ticket counter for any applicable concessions.
The museum strives to be accessible. The site is generally flat, but access to the inside of some aircraft involves stairs. Contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
The Concorde is a major highlight, offering a chance to step aboard. Other impressive aircraft include the Vulcan bomber, Harrier, and Jaguar fighter jet.
Absolutely! The interactive science hangar is particularly popular with children, offering hands-on activities that make learning about aviation fun.
Yes, visitors can board the Concorde and some other passenger planes. Access to the cockpit of some aircraft, like the SR-71 Blackbird, may also be available.
Guided tours may be offered, including tours of the conservation hangar. It's recommended to check the daily schedule upon arrival to see what's available.
To fully explore the hangars and exhibits, plan for at least 3-4 hours. Some visitors spend a full day, especially if they engage with the interactive displays or take a tour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an onsite cafe that serves food and drinks. It's a convenient option for refueling during your visit.
The cafe offers typical museum fare, which has been described as decent quality and not overly expensive compared to similar attractions.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always a good idea to check with the museum directly regarding picnic policies if you prefer to bring your own food.
Generally, museums allow visitors to bring their own water bottles. For outside food, it's best to confirm the museum's policy.
The museum is located in a rural area, so dining options immediately surrounding it might be limited. The nearby towns of North Berwick offer more choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the museum. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits.
The Concorde, especially when boarded, offers unique photo opportunities. The exterior shots of the various aircraft against the sky are also very popular.
While you can go inside some aircraft, access to cockpits for photography might be restricted or depend on specific aircraft.
Drone photography is typically not allowed inside museums or on their grounds due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check the museum's specific policy.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a wide-angle lens, would be useful for capturing both the scale of the aircraft and interior details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking the schedule for any special tours or demonstrations that might be happening during your visit. The museum's location also makes it a good option for a rainy day activity, providing a fun and engaging indoor experience when the Scottish weather is less cooperative.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Consider looking into the nearby East of Scotland Microlights for a potential flight experience to complement your museum visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Learning about the NASA Space Shuttle Trainer also provides insight into the history of space exploration and the rigorous training involved.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Concorde
Many visitors express a sense of awe and nostalgia when seeing the Concorde up close. It represents a unique chapter in aviation history, and the chance to walk through its cabin offers a tangible connection to that era. The museum's presentation ensures that the Concorde remains a powerful and memorable part of the visitor experience, evoking a sense of wonder about what was once possible and what might be in the future of air travel.
Beyond the Concorde: A Vast Collection
The museum also features preserved World War 2 buildings, providing historical context and a deeper understanding of aviation's role in conflict. For those interested in the cutting edge of aviation, the NASA Space Shuttle Trainer is a significant exhibit, as every astronaut who flew on the shuttle trained on this very equipment.
Interactive Learning for All Ages
These interactive exhibits are not just for kids; adults also find them engaging and informative. They provide a practical understanding of the science behind aviation, complementing the static displays of aircraft. This focus on interactive learning ensures that the museum is not just a place to see planes, but a place to understand how and why they fly, making it a valuable educational experience for everyone.
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