RAF Manston History Museum
Explore aviation history at RAF Manston, featuring iconic aircraft, wartime exhibits, and interactive displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
RAF Manston History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore aviation history at RAF Manston, featuring iconic aircraft, wartime exhibits, and interactive displays.
"A great eclectic place with a comprehensive gift shop and fascinating historical displays."
🎯 Check for Special Events
Look out for Christmas Cracker events or helicopter ground runs for unique experiences!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the aircraft and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World War II Aircraft Displays
Main Hangar
See iconic Spitfires, Hurricanes, and a Gloucester Meteor, plus a V1 doodlebug welcoming you.
Wartime Room Sets
Dedicated Exhibit Area
Step back in time with fascinating displays of wartime houses and air raid shelters.
Cockpit & Interior Access
Various Aircraft
Experience aviation history up close by stepping inside cockpits and aircraft.
Helicopter Exhibits & Ground Runs
Outdoor Display Area
Marvel at helicopters like the Bell 222 and 505, with opportunities for ground runs.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to RAF Manston History Museum
Getting the Most Out of Your Trip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check for Special Events
Look out for Christmas Cracker events or helicopter ground runs for unique experiences! 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the aircraft and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the History
Plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the aircraft and historical displays. :camerawithflash:
💰 Affordable Entry
Reasonable ticket prices make it a great value for a day out. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check for Special Events
Look out for Christmas Cracker events or helicopter ground runs for unique experiences!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the aircraft and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the History
Plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the aircraft and historical displays. :camerawithflash:
💰 Affordable Entry
Reasonable ticket prices make it a great value for a day out. :moneybag:
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The museum is well-equipped for visitors with mobility needs. :wheelchair:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the RAF Manston History Museum for its eclectic collection of aircraft, fascinating wartime exhibits, and affordable entry. Many highlight the opportunity to see inside cockpits and the unpretentious, charming atmosphere. While some note it's a smaller museum, the value and historical depth are consistently appreciated.
"What a great eclectic place to visit including a comprehensive gift shop with Airfix models. There was a large selection of aircraft and helicopters on display including bi planes and jet aircraft from both world wars.
Among these was a Gloucester Meteor and many others. I particularly enjoyed the 1940 room sets they were fascinating as were numerous model lay outs of the aerodrome during world war 11. Certain exhibits can be visited one example comprising of the Valiant cockpit. Additionally there was loads of memorabilia on display. Everything is slightly naive which gives the museum its. charm and its unpretentious. A doodlebug V1 welcomes you on arrival. There is also a Spitfire and Hurricane exhibit. close by with free entry. I think the main exhibit at Marston was approx £6 a head."
richard jennings
"This was a lovely museum. Well worth the small cost to get in. The planes on display were really good and they even had a section dedicated to wartime setup with wartime houses and air raid shelter. Excellent experience and is fully wheelchair accessible."
Nick Wisdom
"A fantastic museum with a really interesting layout, a whole range and massive wealth of information here about aircraft, world war 2, and the airfield's history. There's a range of aircraft a lot of which with steps to see inside them or cockpits. Sadly didn't stay long but found a lot of interesting facts and enjoyed looking round the museum."
Emily Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at Hangar 3, Spitfire Way, Manston, Kent. It's accessible by car with free parking available. Public transport options might require further research depending on your starting point, but it's a popular destination for those exploring the Kent coast.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available for visitors at the RAF Manston History Museum.
While specific bus routes can vary, it's generally recommended to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information. Many visitors opt for car travel due to the museum's location.
The museum is situated on the airfield, and signage should guide you to Hangar 3. It's a well-known landmark for aviation enthusiasts in the area.
The museum is located near towns like Margate and Ramsgate, making it a great addition to a trip exploring the Kent coast.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the museum's official website or social media for the most current information before your visit. They often have specific hours for weekends and special events.
Admission is very affordable. Adults are typically around £5.50, children £2.50 (under 5s are free), and family tickets are available for around £16.
While advance booking might not always be necessary, it's a good idea to check if there are any special events or peak times where pre-booking is recommended to secure your spot.
Yes, the museum offers family tickets and often has special pricing for groups. Check their website for the latest deals.
Absolutely! The RAF Manston History Museum is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse collection including bi-planes, jet aircraft from both World Wars, a Gloucester Meteor, a Spitfire, a Hurricane, and even a V1 doodlebug. They also feature helicopters like the Bell 222 and 505. +1
Yes, many of the aircraft have steps allowing visitors to see inside, and some even offer cockpit access for a more immersive experience. +1
The museum boasts fascinating displays on World War II, including room sets depicting wartime houses and air raid shelters, as well as extensive memorabilia and model layouts of the aerodrome. +1
Children often enjoy exploring the aircraft, flicking switches, and peering inside. Special events like Santa's Grotto can also be a hit.
While not explicitly stated as 'interactive' in the traditional sense, the ability to enter cockpits and explore the aircraft provides a highly engaging experience. Some exhibits may feature videos for extra detail.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, the museum has a comprehensive gift shop that includes a good selection of Airfix models and other aviation-themed souvenirs.
Information on on-site food and drink facilities is limited. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly, or plan to dine in nearby towns like Margate or Ramsgate.
The gift shop is well-stocked with aviation memorabilia, making it a great place to pick up a memento of your visit.
Yes, the surrounding towns of Margate and Ramsgate offer a variety of cafes and restaurants if you plan to extend your visit to the area.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the impressive aircraft and historical displays. Always be mindful of other visitors.
The aircraft displays, both inside and outside, offer fantastic photo opportunities. The V1 doodlebug on arrival and the various cockpits are particularly photogenic.
While personal photography is usually fine, it's always wise to check for any specific signage regarding professional photography or drone usage.
Yes, events like helicopter ground runs provide excellent opportunities for dynamic photography.
A camera with good low-light capabilities can be beneficial for indoor exhibits, while a zoom lens is useful for capturing details on the aircraft. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1With affordable family ticket prices and wheelchair accessibility, it's a practical and enjoyable destination for all. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's plenty to see both inside and out. The museum's unpretentious charm makes it a welcoming place for younger visitors to discover aviation history.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to witness helicopter ground runs and learn about the maintenance of these machines. The museum's focus on the history of the airfield itself, combined with detailed memorabilia, provides a comprehensive understanding of its significance. Keep an eye out for special events that offer even deeper dives into aviation heritage.
+1🏛️ History Buffs
The museum's unpretentious charm and focus on detailed historical information make it a rewarding visit. It's a place where you can connect with the human stories behind the historical events, gaining a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices and resilience of the time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Aircraft Collection
Beyond the combat aircraft, the museum also showcases a variety of other aviation marvels. The English Electric Canberra, a jet bomber designed in the mid-1940s, is a notable exhibit, highlighting the evolution of aircraft design. For helicopter enthusiasts, the Bell 222 and Bell 505 are often on display, with opportunities to witness or even experience their monthly ground runs. This diverse collection ensures there's something to capture the imagination of every aviation aficionado.
+2The manston raf museum provides a tangible connection to aviation history. The ability to not just see but also interact with these machines – by peering into cockpits or even sitting in them – creates a memorable and educational experience. This hands-on approach is frequently highlighted by visitors who appreciate the unpretentious and accessible nature of the exhibits.
A Glimpse into Wartime Life
These exhibits are more than just static displays; they are designed to evoke empathy and understanding of the sacrifices made. Visitors often comment on how 'fascinating' and 'moving' these sections are, offering a human dimension to the broader narrative of military aviation. The manston raf museum excels at weaving together the technological achievements with the personal stories of resilience and survival.
This focus on the human element is what sets the RAF Manston History Museum apart. It’s not just about the machines of war, but about the people who operated them and the communities that supported them. The inclusion of such detailed historical context makes for a richer and more impactful visit for all ages.
Special Events and Community Engagement
Another highlight for aviation enthusiasts is the monthly ground run of vintage helicopters, such as the Bell 222. These events allow visitors to witness these magnificent machines in action, hear their engines roar, and often chat with the pilots and engineers who maintain them. This direct interaction offers invaluable insights into the world of aviation maintenance and operation.
+1These events not only draw in visitors but also foster a sense of community around the museum. They demonstrate a commitment to preserving and showcasing aviation heritage in dynamic and engaging ways, making the manston raf museum a destination that offers something new and exciting throughout the year.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit