Explore RAF Harrington's rich aviation history through exhibits on World War II operations, the Carpetbagger missions, and Cold War Thor missile deployments.

Harrington Aviation Museum preserves the fascinating history of RAF Harrington in Northamptonshire, a significant airfield during World War II and the Cold War era. The museum features exhibits covering Operation Carpetbagger, a covert special operations program, as well as the history of the 801st/492nd Bomb Group and No 218 Squadron RAF. Visitors can learn about the base's role in supporting resistance operations across occupied Europe and its later transformation into a Thor missile deployment site from 1959 to 1963. The museum is housed at Sunnyvale Farm and offers an indoor, family-friendly experience suitable for all ages. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult receive free admission, while juniors aged 12-17 are charged £4.00 and adults £8.00. The venue is pushchair friendly, making it accessible for families with young children. Regular opening dates run from April through October, with special Cold War Week events, and group bookings of 12 or more persons are welcome year-round. Visitors can expect to spend several hours exploring the extensive collections, including information on aircraft bomb loads, ammunition history, and personal accounts from those who served at the airfield. The museum also hosts special events and maintains an active newsletter for enthusiasts. Photography is typically not permitted inside the museums to protect the exhibits.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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Emma

5 months ago

Absolute gem of a museum - incredible collection of exhibitions from WWII. If you're interested in WWII and clandestine operations, you should definitely visit!

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Steve Martin

10 months ago

This is a superb little museum, a real gem with a fascinating story to tell. The volunteers are all friendly and knowledgable, and I particularly enjoyed Fred’s introductory talk which provided an excellent overview of the history of the airfield, its squadrons and their activities. The museum also has a lovely tea room and opportunity to purchase books and souvenirs, all at very reasonable prices (the Carpetbaggers history book is a bargain at just £1!). It was also interesting to see inside an airfield Operations Block, which I believe is a unique opportunity to this museum. When you visit don’t forget to stop off at the nearby airfield memorial which is a 5 minute drive from the museum. I highly recommend a visit here; thanks to all involved for making this such a worthwhile place to visit and for keeping history alive.

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Tony Skoyles

11 months ago

Great place to visit, amazing historic stories there I would definitely recommend this museum Thanks to all the staff 👌👍

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Aasiyah Joseph

a year ago

If you enjoy World War 11 history, this is a little gem. Shoes local involvement in the war effort. Has a little coffee shop for coffee & biscuits.

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Fflur Jones

5 years ago

What an amazing place! Keith was a phenomenal tour guide, enjoyed talking to the entire team and learned so much. Anyone looking for something to do in the Northamptonshire area, I couldn't recommend the museum enough! Thank you for your time, your team truly made our holiday ❤️

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026