IWM Duxford

IWM Duxford

IWM Duxford, located near Cambridge, is Britain’s largest aviation museum, set on a historic airfield that played a pivotal role in the Battle of Britain. Part of the Imperial War Museums, it houses nearly 200 aircraft, from Spitfires to Concorde, across seven hangars and 85 acres. Opened to the public in 1976, Duxford blends immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and live demonstrations, offering a captivating journey through military aviation history for families and enthusiasts alike.

The museum’s vast collection includes iconic planes like the Lancaster bomber and modern jets, alongside tanks, vehicles, and personal stories of wartime heroism. Visitors can explore the American Air Museum, climb aboard historic aircraft, or watch restoration work in Hangar 1. The airfield’s control tower and runways evoke its WWII legacy, while family-friendly activities like cockpit tours and VR experiences engage all ages. Seasonal air shows, such as the Duxford Summer Air Show, draw crowds with breathtaking aerobatics.

Nearby attractions include the historic city of Cambridge, with its iconic King’s College Chapel, just 8 miles away. The Fitzwilliam Museum and the tranquil River Cam for punting are also close by. IWM Duxford’s blend of aviation heritage, hands-on experiences, and proximity to Cambridge’s cultural gems makes it an essential stop for exploring Britain’s wartime and cultural history.