The North Weald Airfield Museum, located in Essex, England, is a fascinating destination that preserves and celebrates the rich history of North Weald Airfield. This historic airbase has played a significant role in British aviation, particularly during the Battle of Britain and other key moments in military history.
North Weald Airfield Museum
April – November
- Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 12:00 – 17:00
Admission fee
Gift shop
No aircraft in collection
This Hawker Hurricane replica V7813/US-F is at the gate of North Weald Airfield
The North Weald Airfield Museum sets out to tell their story of a famous airfield that has protected London during two world wars. The story is told in displays, with photographs, artefacts and personal memories.
Highlights of the North Weald Airfield Museum:
- Historical Focus:
- The museum documents the history of North Weald Airfield from its establishment in 1916 during World War I to its pivotal role in World War II and beyond.
- It highlights the airfield’s use by the Royal Air Force, Allied forces, and later as a civilian aviation hub.
- World War II and the Battle of Britain:
- North Weald was an active fighter station during the Battle of Britain and is closely associated with the Hurricane and Spitfire squadrons that defended the UK.
- Exhibits include artifacts and stories from pilots and ground crew who served at the airfield during the war.
- Aircraft and Aviation Memorabilia:
- The North Weald Airfield Museum showcases a range of aviation-related items, including flight gear, uniforms, and equipment used by RAF personnel.
- Engine parts, control panels, and models help illustrate the technological advancements in aviation.
- Personal Stories and Tributes:
- Many exhibits focus on the personal accounts of airmen, ground staff, and civilians who were part of the airfield’s history.
- Memorial displays honor those who served and lost their lives during their time at North Weald.
- Interactive Displays:
- Hands-on exhibits and multimedia presentations provide a deeper understanding of the airfield’s operations and its significance in British aviation history.
- Post-War and Civilian Role:
- The North Weald Airfield Museum also explores the airfield’s transition to post-war use, including its current role as a base for general aviation and emergency services.
- Displays highlight its use in modern times, including events and airshows.
Intrepid Aviation Museum
Intrepid Aviation was an aviation museum based in hangar #4 in North Weald Airfield in North Weald, Essex, England. It was founded by David Gilmour of the rock band Pink Floyd, to own and operate his collection of vintage aircraft.
Gilmour’s company went on to be a major player in the airshow business staging the Thurrock and North Weald airshows in addition to providing aircraft to perform at airshows around Europe during the 1990s. During this period Brendan Walsh formed the innovative ‘Red Stars Race Team’ that consisted of 10 Yak 52 Russian aircraft that staged spectacular pylon races at airshows in the UK. The Intrepid Aviation Company also supplied aircraft, pilots studio facilities and consultancy services to the film industry for over 80 productions including Steven Spielberg’s Band of Brothers.
Gilmour sold the company after it became more and more commercial and less of a hobby:
Intrepid Aviation was a way for me to make my hobby pay for itself a little bit, but gradually over a few years Intrepid Aviation became a business because you have to be businesslike about it. Suddenly I found instead of it being a hobby and me enjoying myself, it was a business, and so I sold it. I don’t have Intrepid Aviation any more. I just have a nice old biplane that I pop up, wander around the skies in sometimes…
Photo Rob Vogelaar