Farnborough Air Sciences Trust Museum
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RAE Wind Tunnels Farnborough

4.7
·882 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Farnborough's pioneering aviation research with historic aircraft, interactive simulators, and passionate volunteers. Free entry!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Volunteers share deep knowledge

CrowdMedium
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Farnborough Air Sciences Trust Museum

RAE Wind Tunnels Farnborough

Best Time

Weekends

Volunteers share deep knowledge

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Farnborough's pioneering aviation research with historic aircraft, interactive simulators, and passionate volunteers. Free entry!

4.7
(882 reviews)

"A must-visit for aviation fans, offering free entry, fascinating research exhibits, and thrilling simulators."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 Chat with the Volunteers

These knowledgeable staff are often ex-aeronautical engineers and love to share stories! :speech_balloon:

✈️ Explore Outside First

See the impressive collection of classic aircraft before heading inside for the research exhibits. ✈️

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 882 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Aircraft Collection

Historic Aircraft Collection

Outdoor display area

See iconic aircraft like the Lightning, Harrier, and Hunter up close. A must-see for aviation enthusiasts.

Interactive Flight Simulators

Interactive Flight Simulators

Indoor exhibition

Experience flying a Concorde or other aircraft with realistic simulators. Fun for kids and adults alike!

Aviation Research Exhibits

Aviation Research Exhibits

Trenchard House

Discover Farnborough's legacy in aeronautical research through fascinating displays and artifacts.

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Free Entry, Donation Welcome

RAE Wind Tunnels Farnborough offers free admission, encouraging donations to support its upkeep. This makes it an accessible option for families and budget travelers looking for educational days out. Volunteers are often on hand to share their extensive knowledge.

Focus on Research & Simulators

While aircraft are displayed, the museum highlights Farnborough's pioneering aviation research. Don't miss the simulators, including the Concorde experience, which offer interactive fun for all ages. Check availability for specific activities.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Volunteers share deep knowledge
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (out of season)
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Days out with kids

Looking for some inspiration for the summer holidays. What are your favourite places to visit with children around Surrey?

🤝 Chat with the Volunteers

These knowledgeable staff are often ex-aeronautical engineers and love to share stories! :speech_balloon:

✈️ Explore Outside First

See the impressive collection of classic aircraft before heading inside for the research exhibits. ✈️

💰 Donate to Support

Entry is free, but donations help maintain this fantastic historical site. :moneywithwings:

🚀 Try the Simulators

The flight simulators, especially the Concorde one, are a huge hit with visitors of all ages. 🚀

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Chat with the Volunteers

These knowledgeable staff are often ex-aeronautical engineers and love to share stories! :speech_balloon:

✈️ Explore Outside First

See the impressive collection of classic aircraft before heading inside for the research exhibits. ✈️

💰 Donate to Support

Entry is free, but donations help maintain this fantastic historical site. :moneywithwings:

🚀 Try the Simulators

The flight simulators, especially the Concorde one, are a huge hit with visitors of all ages. 🚀

What Travellers Say

4.7
(882 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise RAE Wind Tunnels Farnborough for its free entry, knowledgeable and friendly volunteers, and engaging interactive exhibits, especially the flight simulators. While some note it's compact, the depth of information and the passion of the staff make it a highly recommended visit for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.

"What a lovely museum and free entrance just leave some donation if you like so they can maintain the place. The staffs were great and friendly, they will share loads of information about the aircrafts and stuffs. Kids and adult approved. Will definitely visit again."

Anne Hulboj

"I do love an aviation museum, and I rank this one right up there. Yes there are aircraft outside, but the primary focus of the museum is on the research work that was carried out at Farnborough, often by many of the volunteers that staff the museum, and I found it fascinating.

The displays were very well thought out, there were some great simulators and other practical activities, and the volunteers were just so knowledgeable about the subject.

I visited out of season when some of the activities weren't taking place but it was still fascinating."

Jim Whiteside

"David and Ann Wilson took us tound on a personal visit, so we had it's history from the early days. They were founders.
Organised place with excellent displays.
We flew the Concorde simulator over the Hudson river. Great fun was had by all!"

David C Read

What People Like

Free entry & donations
Knowledgeable volunteers
Interactive simulators

What People Dislike

Compact size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

RAE Wind Tunnels Farnborough is located on the edge of Farnborough Airfield. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop near the airfield, and Farnborough Main railway station is a short taxi or bus ride away. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the museum, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While direct public transport to the museum's doorstep might be limited, you can reach Farnborough by train or bus. From Farnborough Main station, local buses or a taxi can take you to the airfield area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the RAE Wind Tunnels Farnborough museum is free. However, donations are highly encouraged to help with the maintenance and upkeep of the exhibits and the site. Reddit

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance as admission is free. You can simply turn up during opening hours. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially outside of peak season. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit. Reddit

The museum occasionally hosts special events or open days, particularly during school holidays. Keep an eye on their announcements for any upcoming activities. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore a collection of historic aircraft, including jets and helicopters, both indoors and outdoors. The museum also features exhibits on Farnborough's pioneering aviation research, engines, cockpits, and interactive flight simulators. Reddit

Yes, the interactive flight simulators, such as the Concorde simulator, are generally included as part of the free entry experience. Expert help is often available. Reddit

Absolutely! Children often love the aircraft displays and especially the interactive flight simulators. The museum is a great educational day out for families. Reddit

Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly, especially if you take advantage of the simulators and chat with the knowledgeable volunteers. Reddit

While not always formally scheduled, the volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and often provide informal tours and share fascinating insights about the exhibits and Farnborough's aviation history. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use within the museum. It's a great place to capture images of historic aircraft and unique exhibits. Reddit

While personal photography is usually fine, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a volunteer if you plan on extensive professional or commercial photography. Reddit

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