The Great Yorkshire Day Out

Yorkshire Air Museum Printable Guide

Yorkshire Air Museum Printable Guide

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Visitor's Guide to Yorkshire Air Museum

Welcome to the Yorkshire Air Museum, one of the UK's largest and most historic aviation museums! This guide will help you make the most of your visit, providing essential information about the museum's exhibits, facilities, and services.

About the Yorkshire Air Museum

The Yorkshire Air Museum is located on the former RAF Elvington airfield, just outside York. It honors the history of aviation and the memory of the allied aircrews who served during World War II. With its extensive collection of aircraft, vehicles, and memorabilia, the museum offers a fascinating journey through aviation history.

Getting There

Address: Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial Halifax Way, Elvington, York YO41 4AU, United Kingdom

By Car:

  • The museum is well-signposted and just a 20-minute drive from York city center.

  • Free parking is available on-site, including spaces for coaches and disabled visitors.

By Public Transport:

  • The nearest train station is York Railway Station.

  • From York, you can take a taxi or bus service (Bus 36) to reach the museum.

Opening Hours & Admission

Opening Hours:

  • Summer (April - October): 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Winter (November - March): 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day.

Admission Fees:

  • Adults: £12.00

  • Concessions (seniors/students): £10.00

  • Children (5-15 years): £5.00

  • Family Ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children): £30.00

  • Children under 5 go free.

Note: Discounts are available for groups, schools, and pre-booked parties.

Top Attractions and Exhibits

  1. Aircraft Collection:

    • Over 50 historic aircraft, from World War II bombers to modern jet fighters.

    • Notable aircraft include the Handley Page Halifax, Victor V-Bomber, Harrier GR3, and Nimrod MR2.

  2. The Control Tower:

    • Explore this restored World War II control tower, showcasing how RAF personnel managed missions.

    • Enjoy panoramic views of the airfield and surrounding countryside.

  3. Allied Air Forces Memorial:

    • A tribute to the sacrifices made by Allied airmen during World War II.

    • Offers insight into the history and heroism of those who served.

  4. The Bomber Command Display:

    • Discover the history of Bomber Command through interactive exhibits, uniforms, artifacts, and personal stories.

  5. The French Air Force Memorial Room:

    • Dedicated to the French squadrons that flew from RAF Elvington, featuring memorabilia, photographs, and stories of these brave airmen.

  6. Historic Vehicles Collection:

    • A collection of military vehicles, including fire engines, fuel tankers, and jeeps, that were used during wartime operations.

  7. Pioneers of Aviation:

    • Learn about the early days of aviation and the innovations that shaped modern flight, with exhibits on famous pioneers such as the Wright brothers.

Family Activities

  • Aircraft Cockpit Tours: Get inside the cockpits of various aircraft and imagine what it was like to be a wartime pilot.

  • Interactive Displays: Many hands-on activities for children, such as building model airplanes or trying on pilot uniforms.

  • Flight Simulators: Test your skills as a pilot with one of the museum’s flight simulators (small additional fee may apply).

Dining and Refreshments

NAAFI Restaurant & Cafe:

  • Enjoy a selection of hot and cold meals, snacks, drinks, and desserts.

  • The cafe has an outdoor seating area, offering views of the aircraft display.

  • You are also welcome to bring your picnic, and there are designated picnic areas on-site.

Gift Shop

Don’t forget to visit the gift shop for souvenirs, aviation-themed merchandise, model kits, books, toys, and clothing. All proceeds support the museum’s preservation work.

Accessibility

  • The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible toilets available.

  • A limited number of wheelchairs are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Guide dogs are welcome.

Tips for Your Visit

  1. Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum fully.

  2. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot to see and some walking is involved.

  3. Check the weather forecast—most displays are indoors, but some aircraft and exhibits are outside.

  4. Attend a guided tour if available, as the knowledgeable guides can provide fascinating insights into the exhibits.

Special Events

The Yorkshire Air Museum regularly hosts special events, including:

  • Aircraft engine runs

  • Vintage car rallies

  • Re-enactment days

  • Model aircraft shows

Check the museum's website or social media for upcoming events and details.

Contact Information

Support the Museum

The Yorkshire Air Museum is a registered charity, and your support helps preserve aviation history. You can support them by:

  • Becoming a member

  • Making a donation

  • Volunteering your time

  • Sponsoring an exhibit

Enjoy your visit to the Yorkshire Air Museum, where history takes flight!