RAF Museum Cosford
Explore the fascinating story of the RAF and of the thousands of ordinary servicemen and women who have served in it and whose invaluable contribution has shaped the world that we live in today.
The RAF Museum Cosford is home to over 75 historic aircraft including the world’s oldest Spitfire, the unique TSR2 and the mighty Vulcan bomber to name but a few. Visitors will discover a world-class collection of aircraft and artefacts displayed inside three wartime hangars and within the award-winning National Cold War Exhibition.
Begin your journey in the Test Flight hangar, here you will find a collection of prototype aircraft, many were produced in secrecy, often utilising components borrowed from other types. Highlights include the Bristol 188, built mainly of stainless steel and designed to investigate the effects of heat on aircraft structures at very high speeds.
Three iconic First World War aircraft greet you on arrival in the War in the Air hangar. This hangar includes British, German and Japanese aircraft, highlights include the Boulton Paul Defiant Mk1 night fighter built locally in Wolverhampton and the Junkers Ju88R-1, the most versatile German combat aircraft of the Second World War.
The National Cold War Exhibition truly has the ‘wow’ factor with its eye-catching architecture and design. Visitors will discover Cold War stories in immersive Hotspots; explore exciting displays of aircraft, iconic cars, models, tanks and even life-sized Russian dolls. Aircraft not to be missed include all three British V Bombers, Vulcan, Victor and Valiant and the English Electric Lightning suspended vertically!
Let your imagination take flight onboard the Museum’s 4D Experience which combines cutting-edge 3D computer animation with the added fourth dimension of special environmental effects. Or why not try the Spitfire 360° virtual reality experience which puts you 10,000 feet in the air in one of the most iconic cockpits in history.
After wandering in the hangars, visitors can relax and enjoy a coffee in the licensed restaurant which has a great selection of hot and cold food available with views overlooking the airfield.
The Museum is open every day of the week including bank holiday weekends.
10.00am – 4.00pm (last entry 3.00pm) applies November – February
10.00am – 5.00pm (last entry 4.00pm) applies March – October