Explore vintage aircraft and aviation history with interactive cockpit experiences that captivate aviation enthusiasts and families alike.

Solway Aviation Museum offers a fascinating journey through aviation history, housing an impressive collection of aircraft and exhibits that appeal to both casual visitors and dedicated aviation enthusiasts. Located in Crosby on Eden, Carlisle, the museum features iconic aircraft including the Avro Vulcan, Canberra, Sea Prince, and Trident, allowing visitors to climb aboard and experience the cockpit of these historic planes—a highlight that particularly delights children. The museum operates seasonally with extended hours during summer months (10:30 am to 5:00 pm) and is open Friday through Monday during peak season, with reduced schedules in winter. Family-friendly admission pricing includes a family package option for maximum two children at £20, while individual children aged 6 and above are welcomed at £5. The venue is suitable for ages 6 and up, making it an excellent destination for family outings. Run by passionate volunteers, the museum has earned prestigious recognition including the 2026 Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award, Museum of the Year 2023, and Best Small Tourist Attraction 2023. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable staff, the intimate connection to exhibits, and the hands-on experience of exploring vintage aircraft. The museum combines educational value with interactive play, offering a unique experience where children can sit in cockpits and imagine flying these remarkable machines.

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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Steve Young

a month ago

GREAT visit and aircraft exhibits so accessible, many with open cockpits. Sit in the Vulcan, a 'claustrophobic' highlight.

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David Taylor

a month ago

Fantastic to visit Solway Aviation museum today. I really enjoyed the tour round the vulcan, thank you to the 2 very friendly and knowledgeable tour guides there. Most is open air here, but a great museum to visit. Vulcan cockpit is in great condition and you book a time on arrival for your tour. Its excellent, thanks so much 😃

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Martin Holt

a month ago

Fantastic museum. Friendly staff, plenty to see and some excellent exhibits that you can get in and around. Lots for kids of all ages to see, learn about and play around with. The tour and talk of the Vulcan Bomber is a must do experience. As you climb into the flight seats and here about how the plane was used during the cold war and the Vulcan flight during thw Falklands conflict. Fascinating! Nice cafe, good parking and loads to see. In the area or doinflg a special one day visit. It's a must place to visit.

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Brian Bouch

2 months ago

Great visit. Loved seeing the Phantom, Vulcan and Lightning up close. Sat in the cockpit of the Canberra. Unbelievably tight for the 3 crew. Exhibits inside are well worth a look....lots of interesting history.. WW2 and Spadeadam etc. Shop is full of the usual twaddle and the bloke behind the counter obviously missed the Customer Relations course.....run by volunteers so a massive well done to all. Looking forward to seeing the Beverley in one piece.

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Martin Holt

2 months ago

Great little aircraft museum. The staff are extremely helpful and want you to have a great visit. Plenty to see inside and out. Make sure you do the Vulcan Bomber tour.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026