The Hucknall Flight Test Museum, located in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, UK, is dedicated to preserving the rich aviation heritage associated with the former Rolls-Royce Flight Test Establishment. Housed in the historic Hucknall Wing Hangar—a Grade II listed building constructed in 1944—the museum showcases a range of exhibits highlighting the site’s pivotal role in aero-engine development.
Hucknall Flight Test Museum
Watnall road
Hucknall, Nottingham NG15 6EQ
http://huflighttestmuseum.co.uk/
guided group visits by prior arrangement
Admission fee
Aircraft collection
| XV798
– | British Aerospace Harrier Gr.3
Flying Bedstead |
The Hucknall Flight Test Museum is housed in the Hucknall Wing Hangar, a rare twentieth century Grade 2 listed industrial building, originally constructed in 1944. It was built specifically to provide dedicated ground test facilities for ongoing Merlin and Griffon engine development, which was continuous throughout World War 2. The building consists of two test hangars, originally with an aircraft wing section suspended in each. Both hangars were joined to a central blockhouse which provided test control facilities.
The museum features a variety of Rolls-Royce engines and components, reflecting its affiliation with the Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust. Notably, Hucknall was the site of significant advancements, including the world’s first jet vertical takeoff and landing achieved by the Rolls-Royce Thrust Measuring Rig, commonly known as the “Flying Bedstead,” in 1953.