Yorkshire Air Museum

The basics

At this museum, you can explore the exhibits at your own pace. Highlights include the control tower restored as it would have appeared in WWII; an exhibition on the RAF Bomber Command; and examples of allied aircraft including a Hawker Hurricane, Supermarine Spitfire, and the rare Handley Page Halifax Friday the 13th. For more information about the history of the RAF site and its development, purchase a visitor guidebook for a small fee.

Things to know before you go

• Most of the museum is wheelchair-accessible, with the exception of the second floor of the control tower.
• Dogs are welcome at the museum, but they must be kept on a leash.
• Allow about 3–4 hours to thoroughly explore.
• There is a restaurant—designed to resemble a wartime canteen—as well as a shop, restrooms, baby-changing facilities, picnic tables, and parking on site.

How to get there

Yorkshire Air Museum is on the eastern edge of the city of York. Driving from the center of York takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, York Pullman Bus operates a direct service (x35) from York train station and Merchantgate.

When to get there

The museum is open daily throughout the year, except for several days around the festive period. It occasionally closes for inclement weather, so check the website or its social media channels for up-to-the-minute updates.

Allied Air Forces Memorial

The Allied Air Forces Memorial, which commemorates various squadrons and branches of the air forces, is on the same site as the museum. Near the entrance, you’ll find a memorial to the No. 77 Squadron, the first squadron based at this airfield. Wander the main memorial garden, which commemorates the French Air Force, Air Transport Auxiliary, and Royal Canadian Air Force, among others.