International Bomber Command Centre
A moving memorial honoring Bomber Command's sacrifices with interactive exhibits, gardens, a spire, and a wall of names.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter for reflection
International Bomber Command Centre
Best Time
Quieter for reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A moving memorial honoring Bomber Command's sacrifices with interactive exhibits, gardens, a spire, and a wall of names.
"A living reminder of the sacrifices made, offering freedom and an open society. "
🧥 Dress for the Weather
The site is on a high point, so it can be windy and cold. Wrap up warm, especially if exploring the grounds.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Enhance Visit
Opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights and context beyond what you might discover alone.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Spire & Memorial Wall
Main Memorial Area
A towering spire offering panoramic views, with a wall inscribed with the names of those lost in Bomber Command.
Interactive Exhibition
Main Building
Engaging displays, artifacts, and personal stories detailing the operations and sacrifices of Bomber Command.
Poppy Displays
Grounds
Stunning, often thematic, poppy installations, including those shaped like a Lancaster bomber.
+2Women in War Exhibition
Grounds
A powerful installation featuring striking silhouettes highlighting the contributions of women.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Reflection
Booking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress for the Weather
The site is on a high point, so it can be windy and cold. Wrap up warm, especially if exploring the grounds.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Enhance Visit
Opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights and context beyond what you might discover alone.
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
Enjoy good food and service at the cafe, though meals can sometimes be slow to arrive.
🚗 Parking & Electric Chargers
Parking is available, with a few electric charger points, but may require joining a separate payment scheme.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress for the Weather
The site is on a high point, so it can be windy and cold. Wrap up warm, especially if exploring the grounds.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Enhance Visit
Opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights and context beyond what you might discover alone.
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
Enjoy good food and service at the cafe, though meals can sometimes be slow to arrive.
🚗 Parking & Electric Chargers
Parking is available, with a few electric charger points, but may require joining a separate payment scheme.
🎁 Interesting Gift Shop
Browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs and items related to Bomber Command history.
🎯 Kids' Pigeon Hunt
Engage younger visitors with the fun pigeon hunt activity, keeping them interested.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the International Bomber Command Centre to be a deeply moving and informative memorial, praising its excellent facilities, well-kept grounds, and the poignant Spire and Memorial Wall. The interactive exhibition and special poppy displays are highlights, though some note that cafe service can be slow. It's considered a vital place for learning, reflection, and remembering the courage of Bomber Command.
"The title of this memorial center in my mind is misleading. Yes there are many interesting pieces, articles and interactive presentations with facts on the operations and statistics of Bomber Command but really it's a living reminder of the sacrifices that young men and women made to allow us to have the freedom to live our lives in an open society. Excellent facilities, in a purpose built building large well kept grounds with modern memorial prices listing the name of those who gave their lives while serving in some capacity. Good parking, electric charger points ( only four requiring you to join another payment scheme) and the view of Lincoln cathedral at the spire is well worth the walk. There are guided tours of the grounds providing information on the story and history but wrap up warm as the site is on a high point and the wind cam be cold. Excellent cafe with good food and service and an interesting gift shop. Worth buying tickets up front as it is very popular."
Leigh Harrison
"What an amazing place to visit. We went to view the poppy display. We did a guided tour which was great. We found out so much more information than if we'd walked around on our own. The pigeon hunt for the kids was great as kept them interested. The food in the cafe was lovely. What a great couple of hrs we all had."
Rebecca Hall
"Very informative, moving monument, well laid out with a cafe serving very good hot and cold snacks. Well worth a hour or two. You pay to enter the exhibition, or can walk the grounds for free."
Trevor Stafford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The IBCC is located on the southern outskirts of Lincoln. It's accessible by car, with good parking facilities available. Public transport options might involve local bus routes from Lincoln city centre. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is parking available on-site. Be aware that there are a limited number of electric charger points, which may require joining a separate payment scheme.
While driving is convenient, it is possible to visit via public transport. Local buses serve the area around Lincoln.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the exhibition. It's best to check the official IBCC website for the most current times before your visit. Grounds are generally accessible.
The IBCC is designed to be accessible, with well-maintained grounds and facilities. The AFCA Voluntary Car Service also provides wheelchair-accessible transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can walk the grounds and see the memorials for free. However, there is a charge to enter the exhibition upstairs.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended as it is very popular.
Ticket prices for the exhibition can be found on the official IBCC website. It's advisable to book online in advance to secure your spot.
Information on concessions or group discounts is usually available on the IBCC's official website. Check their ticketing page for details.
While you can walk the grounds for free, pre-booking exhibition tickets is highly recommended due to popularity. This ensures you can access the exhibition on your desired date and time.
An exhibition ticket typically grants access to the interactive displays, personal stories, and artifacts within the main building, offering a comprehensive look at Bomber Command's history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Spire and Memorial Wall, engage with the interactive exhibition, view special poppy displays,
Yes, free guided tours of the grounds are offered, providing valuable historical context and stories. These tours are highly recommended for a richer understanding of the site.
Yes, the IBCC offers activities like a pigeon hunt for kids to keep them engaged. The interactive displays can also be captivating for younger visitors.
This is a striking installation featuring silhouettes that highlight the significant contributions of women during wartime.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, especially in the outdoor memorial areas. However, check for any specific restrictions within the exhibition spaces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an excellent cafe serving good hot and cold snacks. The food is generally well-regarded, though service can sometimes be slow.
The cafe offers a range of snacks and meals, suitable for a quick bite or a more substantial lunch.
While specific menus can change, cafes at visitor attractions often provide vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly at the cafe for current offerings.
Picnic areas might be available on the grounds, but it's advisable to check the IBCC's policy on outside food and drink.
The cafe typically operates during the centre's opening hours. Check the official IBCC website for seasonal variations or special closures.
📸 📸 Photography
The Spire with Lincoln Cathedral in the background offers a stunning vista. The thematic poppy displays
Drone usage is typically restricted at memorial sites and historical locations. It's essential to check the IBCC's specific drone policy before flying.
Photography rules can vary within exhibition spaces. It's common for flash photography to be prohibited to protect artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for the Spire and grounds. Midday can be good for capturing the detail of the memorial wall.
A versatile camera, whether a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a good smartphone, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for the Spire and grounds, and a standard lens for exhibition details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a special event weekend, as mentioned by some visitors, which can add an extra layer of excitement.
While the grounds are spacious for running around, it's important to remember the solemn nature of the site and discuss the importance of remembrance with your children. The cafe offers a good spot for a family break. 🚶 Solo Travelers
As a place of remembrance, it's ideal for quiet contemplation. The Spire offers a moment of perspective, and the Memorial Wall provides a powerful connection to the past. The cafe is a comfortable place to relax and process your thoughts after your visit.
❤️ Couples
Walking through the memorial grounds hand-in-hand offers a quiet and reflective experience. The cafe is a pleasant spot for a relaxed lunch or coffee, allowing you to discuss your impressions of the centre. Consider visiting during a special event for a more vibrant atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Bomber Command
Through its interactive exhibition, the IBCC brings history to life with personal accounts, operational details, and a vast collection of artifacts. Visitors can learn about the complex missions, the technological advancements of the era, and the profound impact of aerial warfare. The Spire, a prominent landmark, offers breathtaking views of Lincoln Cathedral and the surrounding countryside, serving as a constant reminder of the landscape these airmen defended.
Beyond the main exhibition, the grounds are meticulously maintained and feature significant installations. The Memorial Wall bears the names of all who served, offering a deeply personal connection for visitors. Special poppy displays, often creatively shaped like aircraft such as the iconic Lancaster bomber, are a powerful visual symbol of remembrance, particularly around significant anniversaries like VE Day.
+2 The 'Women in War' exhibition further broadens the narrative, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of women. Experiencing Remembrance at IBCC
The grounds themselves are designed to foster contemplation. The open spaces, the Spire reaching towards the sky, and the meticulously kept memorial areas create an atmosphere of solemnity and respect. Even on a windy day, the sense of peace and remembrance is palpable.
Special events, such as VE Day commemorations or anniversary services, add another layer to the experience, often featuring moving displays like the poppy installations
+2 and ceremonies that bring the history to life. These events can be quite popular, so booking in advance is wise if you plan to attend. The IBCC and its Community Impact
Beyond its historical significance, the IBCC is also a hub for community support. Initiatives like the AFCA Voluntary Car Service, which provides wheelchair-accessible transport, demonstrate the centre's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all visitors.
This focus ensures that the stories of Bomber Command are accessible to everyone, regardless of their mobility or transport needs.The centre's popularity, evidenced by its frequent mention and positive reviews, highlights its importance to the local area and to those with connections to Bomber Command. It's a place where history is honored, stories are shared, and the sacrifices of the past are kept alive for the future.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit