Bournemouth Aviation Museum - Image 1

Bournemouth Aviation Museum

Christchurch, United Kingdom•4.6(949)•Heritage Site, Museum

Climb into vintage aircraft cockpits and experience hands-on aviation history with over 30 exhibits including fighter jets, commercial airliners, and a flight simulator.

Bournemouth Aviation Museum offers a unique hands-on experience that sets it apart from traditional museums. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to climb into the cockpits of numerous aircraft and handle the controls, allowing them to imagine what it's like to be a pilot. The museum features an impressive collection of over 30 aircraft spanning different eras, including vintage fighter jets like the Hawker Hunter and English Electric Lightning, classic commercial airliners such as the Boeing 737 and BAC One Eleven, and historic military aircraft including the Avro Vulcan and Gloster Meteor. The museum is family-friendly and welcomes children from ages 3 and up, with affordable admission prices (Adults £10, Children 3-16 £5). Annual memberships are available for unlimited visits. Special experiences include a flight simulator exhibit and the opportunity to explore military control vehicles and support aircraft. The venue operates year-round with extended summer hours (10am-5pm BST) and winter hours (10am-4pm GMT), with no pre-booking required. Free car parking is available, and the museum occasionally hosts special events such as summer discos and school holiday activities, making it an engaging destination for families interested in aviation history and interactive learning.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.6(949 reviews)
T
Trevor Wear

Trevor Wear

2 months ago

This may not be IWM Duxford but it's worth a visit. Most of the main exhibits are outside but it's run by enthusiastic people. Squeeze into the 7 person cockpit of a Vulcan or imagine yourself flying a 1960's airliner. A safe place to watch the activities at the airport and the gift shop won't break the bank.

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richard c

richard c

3 months ago

Brilliant museum under advertised a hidden gem. So many (1,000's honestly) model aircraft and (several) real plane cockpit's to see and sit in !!! One fee (entrance) unlike some places where you pay per aircraft to view/sit in. Good view of Bournemouth airport and the active runway. Nice little cafe and a free flight simulator!!! All run by volunteers. If i lived closer i'd be one of them !! Well worth a visit baby/child friendly. Oh and free parking too !!!

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G

G

3 months ago

Firstly thank you for a great afternoon. How very refreshing that free parking is offered for visitors. A fantastic museum that offers so much to see , touch, and feel. A fascinating look at all things that mechanically fly. You are able to get up close and personal with many of the exhibits. Lots of switches to push and pull and many opportunities to become a pilot flying where ever your imagination takes you. There is an exhibition of model aircraft along with a book sale den offering all previously enjoyed books at £2. A half decent cup of tea from the cafe with some cake did not break the bank. Lots of people milling around this afternoon. Good to see some raised viewing platforms so you can see what's going on in the live airport across the road. Brilliant time spent here and at £10 per adult, exceptional value for money. Thank you all for today.

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varun sharma

varun sharma

3 months ago

Super Museum and volunteers make it feel like at home. Kids felt like they are in company of their Grand dad. Impeccable aircrafts with loads of knowledge flowing via Ex-pilots themselves..Kids were ecstatic while being a pilot. Had a great day while enjoying simulator session with Brian who explained to our kid with patience and great detail. Must visit if you are around with kids for 2-3 hours with free parking and not very expensive shop. Thanks

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Chris B (Chris)

Chris B (Chris)

a year ago

Really interesting place located right next door to the Airport. Not a huge site but most of the exhibits are open so that you can climb inside. This really helps the children get a feel for these older aircraft. There is a little simulator in the cafe and a larger full cockpit sim in a separate shed. A mobile control tower has a live feed from the actual Bournemouth Airport ATC, which is really cool to listen to as the planes land and take off. The staff are all volunteers and are very knowledgeable and helpful and up for a good chat! Shop, cafe and toilets are all solid and in good order and car park is free (after you put your reg in the iPad at reception). The site is mostly outside so in rain you would be quite exposed and the aircraft are more 'used' than some museums we have been to, but because of this, they allow more access to the planes. This is a fair balance and makes it a good half day attraction for people in the area and want a break from Mudeford beach for a few hours. Would recommend

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Bournemouth Aviation Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Bournemouth Aviation Museum

Is Bournemouth Aviation Museum free to visit?

Bournemouth Aviation Museum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Bournemouth Aviation Museum suitable for?

Bournemouth Aviation Museum is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Bournemouth Aviation Museum dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Bournemouth Aviation Museum.

Is there parking at Bournemouth Aviation Museum?

Yes, Bournemouth Aviation Museum has on-site parking.

Is there food at Bournemouth Aviation Museum?

Bournemouth Aviation Museum doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Bournemouth Aviation Museum pushchair-friendly?

Bournemouth Aviation Museum isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Bournemouth Aviation Museum?

Bournemouth Aviation Museum is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Bournemouth Aviation Museum by public transport?

Bournemouth Aviation Museum isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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