de Havilland Aircraft Museum Hertfordshire
A 'working museum' dedicated to de Havilland aircraft, featuring iconic WWII planes like the Mosquito and historic airliners.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
More volunteers present
de Havilland Aircraft Museum Hertfordshire
Best Time
More volunteers present
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 'working museum' dedicated to de Havilland aircraft, featuring iconic WWII planes like the Mosquito and historic airliners.
"A fantastic museum with knowledgeable volunteers and a unique 'working' atmosphere."
Ask the Volunteers!
They're incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the aircraft. :speech_balloon:
Explore the Mosquitoes
Don't miss the three de Havilland Mosquitoes, including the prototype. :airplane:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
De Havilland Mosquito
Main Hangars
See the legendary 'Wooden Wonder' WWII aircraft, including the prototype. A true aviation marvel.
Comet Airliner
Outdoor Exhibits
Walk through the cabin of this historic jet airliner and get a close look at the cockpit.
Restoration Workshops
Visible Work Areas
Witness volunteers actively restoring de Havilland aircraft, a unique 'working museum' experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Mosquito!
Engage with Enthusiasts
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Ask the Volunteers!
They're incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the aircraft. :speech_balloon:
Explore the Mosquitoes
Don't miss the three de Havilland Mosquitoes, including the prototype. :airplane:
Walk Through History
Step inside aircraft like the Comet and Dove for an immersive experience. :door:
Cafe Prices
Food can be a bit pricey; consider a snack or plan accordingly. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask the Volunteers!
They're incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the aircraft. :speech_balloon:
Explore the Mosquitoes
Don't miss the three de Havilland Mosquitoes, including the prototype. :airplane:
Walk Through History
Step inside aircraft like the Comet and Dove for an immersive experience. :door:
Cafe Prices
Food can be a bit pricey; consider a snack or plan accordingly. :moneywithwings:
Interactive Displays
Fun for kids with simulators and Morse code activities. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the de Havilland Aircraft Museum for its impressive collection, particularly the Mosquito aircraft, and the passion of its knowledgeable volunteers. It's described as a 'working museum' offering a unique, interactive experience. Some find the cafe prices a bit steep, but the overall sentiment is highly positive for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.
"If you are interested in aircraft, a visit to this museum is a must. Great exhibits, well displayed, friendly and helpful volunteers on hand to give you information. Three complete Mosquitoes on display, including the prototype. Plus many other types of aircraft, some of which you can enter. This is where the Mosquito was designed, and the prototype aircraft was built. A great museum!"
William Almquest
"Absolutely superb day out for myself and a few chums, as it’s centrally located to meet up.
Wonderfully atmosphere here, with such knowledgeable staff, who have enthusiasm which is infectious.
There’s so much here, I’ve visited a few times, and seen more on each visit.
Excellent little cafe too, for a halftime snack.
We were given a guided tour, which was excellent value, very comprehensive and enjoyable."
Anton G
"Well worth a visit.... plenty of exhibits and aircraft to see.
Allow about 90 mins to leisurely walk around the hangars and view the aircraft outside.
My personal favourite was walking through the cabin of the Comet and getting a close look at the cockpit.
The museum is staffed by polite and informative volunteers.
I have one minor negative though...i found the price of food and drink a bit steep.I purchased a ready-made ploughman's sandwich and small bottle of water...the cost was £7.20.(About the same as buying the items in a motorway service station.!)
So if the boss of the museum is reading this maybe reconsider your cafe prices.
But overall an excellent experience and i definitely recommend visiting this quaint and informative aviation museum.
The date of my visit was 22/6/25."
Christopher Fisher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in London Colney, Hertfordshire. It's accessible by car, with parking available. Public transport options include local bus routes from St Albans or Watford. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors at the museum.
While driving is often easiest, local bus services do operate in the area. It's advisable to check specific routes and timetables from St Albans or Watford.
The museum is located in Hertfordshire, just north of London, making it a feasible day trip for those in the capital.
The museum is easily accessible from major road networks like the M25 and A1(M). Use a GPS or mapping service for the most direct route from your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official de Havilland Aircraft Museum website for the most current opening times before your visit.
Admission prices are generally reasonable, with potential concessions for seniors and children. Check the museum's website for the latest ticket prices.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance can sometimes save time, especially during peak visiting periods. Check the museum's policy.
Yes, the museum often hosts special events, book launches, and offers guided tours. These can provide deeper insights into aviation history.
Absolutely! The museum offers interactive displays, a playground, and the chance to explore aircraft, making it a great family outing.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
The museum features a significant collection of de Havilland aircraft, including multiple Mosquitoes, a Comet, and a Vampire. You can also see other types of aircraft. +2
Yes, visitors can often walk through the cabin of certain aircraft, such as the Comet and Dove, and explore cockpits.
A 'working museum' means volunteers are actively involved in restoring aircraft. You can often see them at work and ask questions, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photoshoots may require prior arrangement. 
A leisurely visit to explore the hangars and outdoor exhibits typically takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe that offers snacks, light meals, and refreshments.
The cafe typically offers items like sandwiches, cakes, and drinks.
While not explicitly mentioned, visitors might be able to picnic in designated outdoor areas if available. It's best to inquire upon arrival.
It's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and drinks, but check the museum's specific policy.
Yes, being near St Albans and Watford, there are numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding towns if you prefer to dine out.
📸 📸 Photography
The de Havilland Mosquitoes, especially the prototype, are highly photogenic. The Comet airliner and other vintage aircraft also make for great shots.
Yes, you can often photograph the cockpits and cabins of aircraft like the Comet, offering unique perspectives.
The museum has hosted 'Planes and Pinups' photoshoots, showcasing the aircraft as backdrops. This highlights the photogenic nature of the exhibits.
Lighting can vary. Natural light from hangar doors and windows, along with artificial lighting, will be present. Consider bringing a versatile camera setup.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with museum staff upon arrival to ensure compliance with their guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget the outdoor playground for some active fun. The museum's 'working' nature, with volunteers often visible restoring aircraft, can also be fascinating for curious young minds. It’s a great way to introduce children to aviation history in an engaging and accessible way.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Beyond the Mosquito, the collection spans a range of de Havilland's innovations, from early designs to jet airliners. The knowledgeable and passionate volunteers are a goldmine of information, ready to discuss technical details and historical context. This is a place to delve deep into the de Havilland legacy.
📸 Photographers
+2 The ability to photograph interiors of aircraft like the Comet adds another layer of visual interest. The museum has even hosted specialized photoshoots like 'Planes and Pinups,' demonstrating the photogenic appeal of the aircraft and location.
+3 While lighting can vary, the combination of natural and artificial light, along with the unique historical setting, creates compelling photographic opportunities. Always check with staff regarding tripod usage.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Mosquito
Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of these aircraft, from their sleek fuselages to their powerful engines. The museum's volunteers have dedicated significant effort to restoring these machines, ensuring their preservation for future generations. The presence of the prototype is particularly significant, as it represents the very beginning of the Mosquito's remarkable journey.
Beyond the Mosquito, the museum's collection spans a range of de Havilland's other significant contributions to aviation, showcasing the company's enduring impact on the industry. This focus on the de Havilland legacy makes the museum a unique destination for aviation enthusiasts.
A 'Working Museum' Experience
This hands-on approach creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Volunteers are often on hand to discuss their work, share their passion for aviation, and answer visitor questions. This direct interaction provides invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of aircraft restoration, making the experience far more personal and educational than a static display.
The active restoration efforts mean that the museum's collection is constantly evolving. You might see a familiar aircraft undergoing a new phase of work or catch a glimpse of a project in its early stages. This commitment to preserving aviation heritage ensures that the de Havilland Aircraft Museum remains a vibrant and relevant destination for anyone interested in the history of flight.
Beyond the Hangars: Outdoor Exploration
Getting a close-up look at the cockpit of these larger aircraft provides a sense of scale and complexity that indoor displays might not fully convey. It's a chance to imagine yourself as a pilot or passenger from a bygone age of aviation.
For families, the outdoor area also features a playground, ensuring that younger visitors have space to play and burn off energy while still being surrounded by aviation marvels. This blend of historical exhibits and recreational space makes the museum enjoyable for all ages.
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