
North Weald Airfield Museum
Discover WWI & WWII aviation history at North Weald Airfield Museum, a compact gem in the former commander's house. Packed with artifacts and stories.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

North Weald Airfield Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover WWI & WWII aviation history at North Weald Airfield Museum, a compact gem in the former commander's house. Packed with artifacts and stories.
"Excellent, quirky, small independent airfield museum, well worth a visit if you are interested in WW1, WW2 and post war military aviation."

💰 Affordable Entry
Tickets are a bargain: £5 for adults, £2.50 for concessions, and £1 for children. Pay on arrival. :ticket:
🅿️ Easy Parking
Free on-street parking is readily available right by the museum. :car:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

WWI & WWII Aviation
Main exhibition rooms
Explore artifacts, photos, and models detailing the airfield's crucial role in both World Wars.

Battle of Britain History
Throughout the museum
Immerse yourself in the stories of this famous Battle of Britain airbase.
Commander's House Setting
Old Commander's House
Experience history within the atmospheric setting of the former commander's residence.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Aviation History Gem
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Affordable Entry
Tickets are a bargain: £5 for adults, £2.50 for concessions, and £1 for children. Pay on arrival. :ticket:
🅿️ Easy Parking
Free on-street parking is readily available right by the museum. :car:
⏳ Allow an Hour
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes, but you could easily spend longer if you're an aviation enthusiast. :stopwatch:
🚂 Combine with Steam Train
Take the Epping Ongar steam railway to North Weald for a fantastic day out. :train2:
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Affordable Entry
Tickets are a bargain: £5 for adults, £2.50 for concessions, and £1 for children. Pay on arrival. :ticket:
🅿️ Easy Parking
Free on-street parking is readily available right by the museum. :car:
⏳ Allow an Hour
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes, but you could easily spend longer if you're an aviation enthusiast. :stopwatch:
🚂 Combine with Steam Train
Take the Epping Ongar steam railway to North Weald for a fantastic day out. :train2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise North Weald Airfield Museum as a 'great little museum' packed with genuine artifacts and historical information, especially regarding its WWI and WWII roles. The affordable entry and free parking are significant draws, though some note the displays are 'idiosyncratically laid out'. It's a labor of love that offers a deep dive into aviation history.
"Small museum but plenty to see worth a visit and parking not a problem"
Terry Moriarty
"Excellent, quirky, small independent airfield museum, well worth a visit if you are interested in WW1, WW2 and post war military aviation in the UK. Displays are a bit idiosyncratically laid out, but the information and sheer density of exhibits is amazing. A labour of love for a famous Battle of Britain airbase. Parking free on street."
Mark Godson
"Doesn't look like a museum, but it definitely is. Loads of genuine artifacts, friendly staff. 3 floors. Took about 30-45 minutes. Tickets £5 adult, concession £2.50 child £1. Pay on arrival Parking side of building. Recommend a visit if you are in the area or interested in aviation."
Leena Gale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at North Weald Airfield. Many visitors arrive by car, benefiting from free on-street parking. It's also accessible via public transport, with some visitors combining their trip with the Epping Ongar steam railway for a scenic journey.
Yes, there is convenient free on-street parking available right by the museum building.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media before your visit. However, it's generally open during daytime hours on select days.
Admission is very affordable. Adults are £5, concessions are £2.50, and children are £1. Payment is typically made on arrival.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can pay for your tickets upon arrival at the museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features a dense collection of genuine artifacts, photographs, war posters, rationing books, and fighter aircraft models, covering the airfield's history from WWI through WWII and beyond.
Most visitors find that 30-45 minutes is sufficient to see the main exhibits. However, aviation enthusiasts might want to spend an hour or more to fully appreciate the displays.
Yes, the museum offers an engaging look at aviation history that can be interesting for children, especially those with an interest in planes and wartime stories. The affordable entry fee also makes it a budget-friendly option for families.
The museum is spread across three floors within the old commander's house, with exhibits laid out somewhat idiosyncratically but packed with information and artifacts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself is a small, independent establishment and typically does not have its own cafe or dining facilities. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit at nearby establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the museum for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a staff member if you're unsure. Capturing the dense displays can be a fun way to remember your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a day of it by combining your visit with a ride on the nearby Epping Ongar steam railway for an extra dose of nostalgic fun. While the museum is small, the density of exhibits provides plenty to look at, and the free parking makes logistics easier for families on the go.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
While the museum is compact, the sheer volume of exhibits means you can easily spend an hour or more absorbing the history. The affordable entry fee is a bonus, allowing you to immerse yourself in the legacy of this iconic airbase without breaking the bank. Don't miss the chance to explore the commander's house setting for an authentic feel.
🚂 Day-Trippers
Allow at least an hour for your visit, especially if you're interested in the detailed exhibits covering WWI, WWII, and the Battle of Britain. The affordable entry fee makes it a great value, and the compact nature of the museum means you can fit it into a busy day without feeling rushed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Wartime Aviation
One of the most compelling aspects of the museum is its focus on the Battle of Britain, a period when North Weald was a crucial operational base. The collection offers a tangible connection to this significant era, allowing visitors to understand the challenges and bravery involved. The idiosyncratic layout, while perhaps unconventional, adds to the charm and the feeling of discovering a hidden treasure.
Beyond the military focus, the museum also touches upon post-war aviation and the broader history of the airfield. It's a testament to the dedication of those who have preserved these stories, making it a highly recommended visit for anyone interested in aviation or military history. The affordability and accessibility further enhance its appeal.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
For those looking for a more unique travel experience, consider combining your museum visit with a ride on the Epping Ongar steam railway. This heritage line often stops near North Weald, offering a nostalgic journey that complements the historical theme of the airfield. It’s a popular choice for a day trip, allowing you to experience multiple attractions in one outing.
When it comes to time, most visitors allocate around 30-45 minutes to explore the museum's three floors. However, the sheer volume of artifacts means that aviation enthusiasts could easily spend an hour or more delving into the details. The entry fee is exceptionally reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option for individuals, couples, and families alike.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit