Imperial War Museum Duxford

Imperial War Museum Duxford is Britain’s largest aviation museum, located near Cambridge. This remarkable museum is part of the Imperial War Museums and is home to a vast collection of aircraft, military vehicles, and artifacts from key conflicts of the 20th and 21st centuries. As a former RAF airfield, Duxford offers visitors an immersive experience in aviation history, showcasing aircraft from World War I to modern jets.

Why Visit the Imperial War Museum Duxford

• Aircraft Collection: The museum houses over 200 aircraft, including iconic planes like the Spitfire, Lancaster Bomber, Concorde, and modern military jets. It’s a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts.
• Live Air Shows: Experience thrilling air displays during the museum’s famous air shows, where historic planes take to the skies in breathtaking performances.
• Historic Airfield: Walk through a real wartime airfield, where aircraft once took off during World War II, and learn about its significant role in defending Britain during the Battle of Britain.
• American Air Museum: Visit the award-winning American Air Museum, which showcases the United States' air power with planes such as the B-52 Stratofortress and the SR-71 Blackbird.
• Interactive Exhibits: The museum offers interactive displays, allowing visitors to climb aboard aircraft, try flight simulators, and get hands-on with history.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Duxford is during its air show season, typically held between May and September. These events are very popular, so plan. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays outside of the school holidays. The museum is open year-round, but visiting in spring or summer allows you to fully enjoy the outdoor exhibits and walking around the airfield.

How to Get There

• By Car: The museum is easily accessible from the M11 motorway (Junction 10) and offers plenty of free on-site parking.
• By Train: The nearest train station is Whittlesford Parkway, which is about 2 miles from the museum. Cambridge station, about 8 miles away, offers more frequent services.
• By Bus: Local bus services run from Cambridge to Duxford, with a stop near the museum entrance.
• By Air: Stansted Airport is around 30 minutes away, making the museum easily reachable for international visitors.

Tips for Visitors

• Pre-Book Air Show Tickets: If visiting during an air show, it’s crucial to book tickets in advance as these events often sell out.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Duxford is a large site, so wear comfortable shoes for walking between hangars and outdoor exhibits.
• Interactive Activities: Take advantage of the museum’s flight simulators and interactive displays to add a hands-on experience to your visit.
• Plan for a Full Day: With so much to see, you’ll need a full day to explore everything. Bring snacks or dine at one of the on-site cafés.
• Check the Calendar: The museum frequently hosts special events, workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours, so check the calendar before you go.

Imperial War Museum Duxford offers a comprehensive and thrilling exploration of aviation and military history. From awe-inspiring air shows to its vast aircraft collection, the museum is an unforgettable experience for both history lovers and aviation enthusiasts alike.