Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum
Discover iconic WWII Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft, rich memorabilia, and compelling history. Free entry!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover iconic WWII Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft, rich memorabilia, and compelling history. Free entry!
"A great little free museum packed with history and impressive aircraft."
🎯 Free Entry, Donate!
Admission is free, but donations are crucial for upkeep. Give what you can! :heart:
✈️ Don't Touch the Planes!
Admire the aircraft from a distance; touching is not allowed. Keep kids supervised. :eyes:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spitfire Display
Main Hall
Marvel at a genuine Spitfire, a symbol of British resilience during WWII. Its iconic silhouette is a must-see.
Hurricane Display
Second Hall
Stand beside a Hurricane, the workhorse of the Battle of Britain, and appreciate its robust design.
WWII Memorabilia
Exhibition Rooms
Explore a treasure trove of wartime artifacts, models, photos, and personal stories that bring history to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Impact
Respect the Artifacts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry, Donate!
Admission is free, but donations are crucial for upkeep. Give what you can! :heart:
✈️ Don't Touch the Planes!
Admire the aircraft from a distance; touching is not allowed. Keep kids supervised. :eyes:
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy a coffee and snack at the cafe with lovely outdoor seating. :coffee:
🅿️ Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is available on-site. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry, Donate!
Admission is free, but donations are crucial for upkeep. Give what you can! :heart:
✈️ Don't Touch the Planes!
Admire the aircraft from a distance; touching is not allowed. Keep kids supervised. :eyes:
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy a coffee and snack at the cafe with lovely outdoor seating. :coffee:
🅿️ Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is available on-site. :car:
⏱️ Quick Visit Possible
You can see the main exhibits in about 20-30 minutes. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum for its free entry and the impressive display of iconic WWII aircraft. Many highlight the wealth of historical memorabilia and the friendly atmosphere. While some find the VR simulator pricey, the overall experience is considered a valuable and educational stop for history buffs and families alike.
"Great little place that holds a lot of history. There's two well-filled rooms large enough to house a Spitfire in one and a Hurricane in the other. Loads of extra militaria and information dotted around as well and lots of model aircraft and pictures & images to help show moments of the war. Would highly recommend - it's free to get in, but a donation always helps."
Dave Southgate
"This is an awesome free entrance museum with some great history. The virtual reality flight simulator is a bit pricey but looked like it could be fun. Kids do need to be monitored though as they do not allow anyone to touch the planes."
Roamin Gnome
"Lovely historical exhibition. Very nice and didn't cost a penny. Couldn't ask for much more and the staff where friendly."
Oliver Kos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Manston, Kent. It's accessible by car with free parking available. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi from nearby train stations is advisable.
Yes, there is free parking available on-site, which is a great convenience for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the museum offers free admission, which is a significant draw for visitors. However, donations are highly encouraged to support the museum's operations and preservation efforts.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official museum website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
As the museum is free to enter, advance booking is generally not required. However, for any special events or group visits, it's recommended to contact the museum directly.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
The museum proudly displays a Spitfire and a Hurricane, two iconic aircraft from World War II. You'll also find a wealth of memorabilia, models, and historical information.
Yes, it's a great place for families to learn about aviation history. However, children need to be closely monitored as touching the aircraft is not permitted.
Yes, the museum offers a virtual reality flight simulator experience. Be aware that this is an additional cost and can be a bit pricey, according to some visitors.
Many visitors find that a quick visit to see the main exhibits can take around 20-30 minutes. However, you could spend longer if you delve deeper into the memorabilia and information provided.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure, especially regarding flash photography near delicate exhibits.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe that offers refreshments and snacks. It also features lovely outdoor seating, making it a pleasant spot to relax.
The cafe typically offers light refreshments, coffee, and snacks. It's a convenient place to grab a bite during your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Aircraft: Spitfire & Hurricane
Complementing the Spitfire is the Hawker Hurricane. Often overshadowed by its more glamorous counterpart, the Hurricane was the true workhorse of the RAF during the Battle of Britain. Its rugged construction and firepower proved highly effective against German bombers. Seeing both aircraft side-by-side provides a powerful visual representation of the air defense strategy that helped turn the tide of the war. The museum's commitment to preserving these machines ensures their stories continue to inspire future generations.
Beyond the main attractions, the museum is filled with personal stories and memorabilia. Visitors can explore displays of uniforms, equipment, photographs, and models that offer a deeper understanding of the lives of the pilots and ground crew who served. These details humanize the conflict and provide a poignant connection to the past, making the experience more than just an aircraft exhibition.
A Community-Driven Experience
Social media content, like TikTok videos showcasing engine startups
highlights the ongoing dedication to these historic machines. This user-generated content not only promotes the museum but also underscores the collective effort involved in maintaining such a significant historical site. It’s a testament to how a shared love for aviation can bring people together.This collaborative spirit extends to the visitor experience. While children are encouraged to visit, the rule about not touching the planes is strictly enforced to preserve these valuable artifacts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit