RAF Air Defence Radar Museum - Image 1

RAF Air Defence Radar Museum

Norwich, United Kingdom•4.8(883)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore the UK's only original Cold War Operations Room and 18 exhibition spaces covering radar history from WWII through the Cold War at this award-winning RAF station museum.

The RAF Air Defence Radar Museum offers a fascinating and informative day out for families, housed entirely in original RAF buildings including a Grade II listed 1942 radar operations building. Visitors can experience the country's only original Cold War Operations Room, which formed a critical link in the RAF's Command and Control System during the tense years following World War II. The museum provides a unique window into the history of radar spanning from WWII to the Cold War era. With 18 exhibition rooms, the museum covers early radar development, operations during the Second World War at Neatishead, and the Cold War period when the RAF faced the Soviet Air Force and the ever-present threat of nuclear war. Educational talks are held in both the Second World War room and the Cold War room, announced throughout the day, with the first presentation starting at 10:45am. These talks bring to life the experiences of those who served during these pivotal historical periods. The museum is located at Neatishead in Norfolk, minutes from Horning and easily accessible from Norwich. Visitors can enjoy refreshments at Crumbs Café and browse the well-stocked gift shop. A whole day is recommended to see the entire collection and attend presentations. Annual tickets allow multiple visits, and the museum welcomes both walk-in visitors and group bookings. Please note that as a 1942 military building, not all areas are wheelchair accessible.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
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: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

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

☕ Food & Drink

Crumbs Café

Café offering snacks and drinks

Follow:

Google Reviews

4.8(883 reviews)
I
Ian Watson

Ian Watson

3 months ago

Wasn't sure what to expect and was surprised how much they have on show. Lots of rooms with items you can touch and interact with. The 2 talks were excellent and extremely informative. Would definitely recommend.

K
Kevan Webb

Kevan Webb

3 months ago

This is an incredible small museum which, in itself, is huge. The fact that it is still an active site makes it more relevant. All of the artefacts are clearly marked and there are talks and demonstrations throughout the day. Equally, most of the items on display, are ‘live’! I can’t recommend it enough and although in the wastes of Norfolk, it is easy to find and we’ll sign posted. The staff and volunteers? Well they are mostly ex RifRAF, incredibly knowledgeable and very entertaining. Make a point of accosting Lydia if she’s on duty?!? There are open cockpits that can be accessed by all although if you’re less able it may be a struggle but they will try and get you in. There really is so much to see and learn about most hands on. It’s a tiptop place to be and if the weather is gungy it’s mostly indoors! Tea and cake is highly recommended ☕️🍰

H
Helen Hallpike

Helen Hallpike

3 months ago

Excellent experience at this museum. We sat in the cockpit of a Jaguar fighter plane and we also launched a missile. We went into the control room for tracking the planes in the Second World War and the actual set up used in the Cold War, as they left it on It’s last day in use. Amazing insight into the ingenuity of the British to make best use of their limited but developing technological resources. Examples of the essential work of women in the war too. An excellent trip thank you very much! Please see attached photos

S
Susan Loomes

Susan Loomes

3 months ago

What a fantastic interesting and informative museum. Expecting a short visit we stayed all day. The talks throughout the day are excellent. The knowledge and enthusiasm of the volunteers is infectious. The cafe food was simple but superb and reasonably priced. Don’t miss this educational experience, we learnt so much. On top of that, we had used the bus to visit the museum, just a short walk from the main road. A kind volunteer saved us a wait and a journey back by giving us a lift back to our motorhome. Thank you all for a great day out.

R
Rimma

Rimma

3 months ago

What an absolutely brilliant visit to the RAF Museum we had! The most incredible time and it was fantastic even for our little one. A massive thank you to the amazing volunteers. Their presentations were so engaging and they shared such a wealth of knowledge with real enthusiasm and patience. It turned the whole experience into something truly special and memorable. You could tell how much they love what they do. It was an absolute highlight of our trip to Norfolk. Highly recommended for all ages, we’ll definitely be back!

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at RAF Air Defence Radar Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about RAF Air Defence Radar Museum

Is RAF Air Defence Radar Museum free to visit?

RAF Air Defence Radar Museum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is RAF Air Defence Radar Museum dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at RAF Air Defence Radar Museum.

Is there parking at RAF Air Defence Radar Museum?

Yes, RAF Air Defence Radar Museum has on-site parking.

Is there food at RAF Air Defence Radar Museum?

Yes — Crumbs Café is on site at RAF Air Defence Radar Museum. Café offering snacks and drinks

Is RAF Air Defence Radar Museum pushchair-friendly?

Yes, RAF Air Defence Radar Museum is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at RAF Air Defence Radar Museum?

RAF Air Defence Radar Museum is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to RAF Air Defence Radar Museum by public transport?

RAF Air Defence Radar Museum is well-served by public transport.
Kiddy Compass