Exploring the National Museum of Flight
Exploring the National Museum of Flight
If you have a little plane lover in your family, we’ve got the perfect destination for you. Recently, we had the incredible opportunity to visit the National Museum of Flight in Scotland, and let me tell you, it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss. Join us as we share our experience and help you plan an unforgettable visit to this aviation wonderland.
- Awe-Inspiring Exhibitions:
From the moment we stepped into the museum, we were greeted with an array of awe-inspiring exhibitions. The main display hangar is an absolute treat, housing “The Concorde Experience” and “The Jet Age” exhibitions. The Concorde Experience allowed us to walk through and around an actual Concorde aircraft, while the Jet Age exhibition showcased the development of jet engines. The level of detail and interactive elements truly brought these exhibits to life.
- Hands-On Adventure:
Our little plane enthusiast was in seventh heaven when we stumbled upon the “Fantastic Flight” gallery. This hands-on interactive experience allowed them to explore flight in a fun and engaging way. From flight simulators to interactive displays, our child’s curiosity was ignited, and they couldn’t get enough.
- Unveiling History:
The National Museum of Flight doesn’t just focus on the excitement of flight; it also delves into the history of the site itself. The “Fortunes of War” exhibition provided a captivating insight into the wartime significance of the airfield. Additionally, we were fascinated by the restored “Parachute Store,” which offered a glimpse into the world of parachute operations. It’s incredible to see these historical buildings preserved and repurposed for educational purposes.
- Impressive Collections:
The museum’s extensive collections left us in awe. The range of aero engines, aircraft parts, avionics, uniforms, medals, weapons, models, photographs, documents, and ephemera was simply mind-boggling. While not everything was on display, the curated selection was enough to give us a glimpse into the rich history of aviation.
- Special Highlights:
One unforgettable highlight was the inclusion of a BAE Systems Hawk T.1A, XX308, in Hangar 4. This former Red Arrows aircraft, flown in formation with a Concorde over the Scottish Parliament, was a sight to behold. It’s remarkable to see such iconic pieces of aviation history up close.
- Exciting Events:
Don’t miss the annual air show held every July, where the sky comes alive with thrilling aviation displays. The museum also hosts other events throughout the year, like the Wartime Experience in May and the transport-themed “Wheels and Wings” event in September.
Currently hosting Brick History– Travel through time and view over 30 LEGO models showing key moments in history, from the Big Bang to the discovery of DNA.
Witness the moment that Isaac Newton discovered gravity, see Mozart compose The Magic Flute, and watch on as the Suffragettes campaign for the vote.
Elsewhere on site, enjoy a minifigure trail around the museum, and keep an eye out for our themed activities on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 August and during October half term.
Our visit to the National Museum of Flight was an absolute blast for our plane-loving child, and we couldn’t help but be swept up in the excitement too. The combination of interactive exhibitions, historical insights, impressive collections, and exciting events make this museum a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you have a budding pilot or simply a fascination with flight, this hidden gem in Scotland is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready for an adventure like no other.
For more information and to book tickets –https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-flight/