The RAF Manston History Museum, located in Manston, Kent, England, is dedicated to preserving the history of RAF Manston and its significant role in both World Wars, particularly during World War II. The museum is situated on the former site of RAF Manston, which was a key airfield for the Royal Air Force, serving a strategic role in the defense of Britain and later in post-war aviation history.

RAF Manston History Museum

Manston Road

Ramsgate

Kent CT12 5DF

United Kingdom

www.rafmanston.co.uk

+44 1843 825224

March – October

• Daily 10:00 – 16:00

November – February

• Saturday- Sunday 10:00 – 16:00

Admission fee

Aircraft collection

WT205 XH169 XR658 XR770/AA XV864 N36TH WP772/Q – WD615/R – XL190 XF509 XG226 XV352 XV229 – ZA325 G-BXVZ/1625 – – XZ106/FW G-SSWP VM791 XA231 – XD857 XS482 XJ727

BAC Canberra B(I)6 (nose) BAC Canberra PR.9 BAC Jet Provost T.4 BAC Lightning F.6 Blackburn Buccaneer S.2B Canadair CT-133 Silver Star de Havilland Chipmunk T.10 Fokker Dr.I Triplane Gloster Meteor TT.20 Gotha G.IV repro Handley Page Victor K.2 (nose) Hawker Hunter F.6 Hawker Hunter F.6A (nose) Hawker Siddeley Buccaneer S.2B (cockpit) Hawker Siddeley Nimrod MR.2 (cockpit) Huntair Pathdfinder Panavia Tornado GR.1 (cockpit) PZL TS-11 Iskra Nieuport 17 (repro) Nieuport 17 (repro) SEPECAT Jaguar GR.3A Short 330 Slingsby Cadet TX.3 Slingsby Grasshopper TX.1 Sopwith 1 1/2 Strutter Vickers Valiant BK.1 (nose) Westland Wessex HU.5 Westland Whirlwind HAR.10

RAF Manston History Museum is a museum based on the history of this famous airfield from 1916 to the present day. On show are aircraft and artifacts illustrating various aspects of the airfield, squadrons and personnel from World War 1 up to modern search and rescue operations and its move into Civil Aviation.

Highlights of the RAF Manston History Museum:

1. World War II Heritage:
   • RAF Manston played a crucial role in the defense of Britain during World War II, particularly as part of the Dover Fighter Group and during the Battle of Britain.
   • The museum displays artifacts related to the airfield’s involvement in the war, including aircraft models, photographs, uniforms, and memorabilia that tell the stories of the men and women who served there.
2. The Battle of Britain:
   • RAF Manston served as a critical station during the Battle of Britain, with numerous RAF squadrons stationed there, flying Spitfires and Hurricanes to protect southern England from German attacks.
   • The RAF Manston History Museum highlights this period of history with detailed displays about the Battle of Britain, the aircraft involved, and the heroic efforts of RAF pilots.
3. Aircraft and Aviation Equipment:
   • The museum has an impressive collection of aviation equipment, including cockpit sections, flight gear, and a variety of aircraft components.
   • While the museum does not have a full collection of aircraft on display, it does have detailed models and engine components, some of which are connected to the aircraft that operated from RAF Manston.
4. Memorial to the Fallen:
   • One of the most poignant features of the museum is the memorial dedicated to the airmen who lost their lives while serving at RAF Manston.
   • The museum honors their memory with a Roll of Honour and displays that commemorate their bravery and sacrifice during wartime operations.
5. Post-War Aviation History:
   • After World War II, RAF Manston continued to play a role in both military and civilian aviation.
   • The museum explores this later period in the airfield’s history, which included its use by the Royal Canadian Air Force and its eventual transition to civilian aviation use.
6. Displays of Personal Stories:
   • The museum features personal stories and accounts from those who served at RAF Manston, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the day-to-day lives of aircrew, ground staff, and their families during wartime.
   • Items like letters, personal effects, and photographs provide insight into the human side of history at the airbase.
7. Preservation of RAF Manston:
   • The RAF Manston History Museum also focuses on preserving the history of the airfield itself, which has had several incarnations since its opening in the early 20th century.
   • It showcases the changes in technology, air operations, and the airfield’s role in military strategy over time.