The Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre, located in Montrose, Scotland, is a museum that preserves and celebrates the history of the UK’s first operational military air station. Established in 1913, Montrose Air Station played a significant role during both World Wars and in the development of British military aviation.
Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre
Scotland
+44 1674 678222
Sunday 12:00 – 16:00 all year round
April – September
- Wednesday – Saturday 10:00 – 16:00
Other times by arrangement
Admission fee
Gift shop
Entry via Broomfield Industrial Estate, north end of town off the A92, follow tourist “brown” signs beside “Esso” garage
Aircraft collection
| TX226
XD542 XA109 WF825/A WT619 XE340/181 G-MMLM G-ADMW/DG590 ZD744/092 471 B5577 EP121 | Avro Anson C.19 (frame)
de Havilland DH.115 Vampire T.11 de Havilland Sea Vampire T.22 Gloster Meteor T.7 Hawker Hunter F.1 Hawker Sea Hawk FGA.6 MBA Tiger Cub 440 Miles M.2H Hawk Major (fuselage) Panavia Tornado GR.4 Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2c (replica) Sopwith Camel Supermarine Spitfire (replica) |
The earliest air station in Britain, established 1913 by the Royal Flying Corps. The museum features a fascinating photographic archive and collection of aviation memorabilia, artifacts and vehicles relating to the flying history of Montrose. The Air Station is also famous for its ghosts. There have been many unexplained sightings of apparitions and planes.
Highlights of the Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre:
- Historical Significance:
- Montrose was the first operational air station in the UK, opening as part of the Royal Flying Corps before becoming an RAF station.
- The centre highlights its pivotal role in aviation history, including training pilots and hosting squadrons during World War I and World War II.
- Aircraft Displays:
- The museum houses a collection of restored aircraft, including replicas and original models such as the Sopwith Camel, Hawker Hunter, and others used for training and combat.
- These exhibits showcase the evolution of aviation technology over the decades.
- Exhibits and Artifacts:
- The Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre features uniforms, equipment, photographs, and personal belongings of servicemen and women who were stationed at Montrose.
- Displays detail the daily life of pilots and ground crew, as well as the challenges they faced.
- Interactive Experiences:
- Visitors can explore simulators, hands-on displays, and reconstructed scenes such as air station offices and workshops to experience life on an airbase.
- Stories of local and international aviators bring a personal touch to the history presented.