Located on an old RAF airfield, Tangmere Military Aviation Museum is home to some of the most interesting exhibitions of aviation history. The museum dates back to 1916, and during World War ll was one of Britain’s front line fighter bases. Each month, the museum showcases a different aircraft and artefact in depth, contributing to a comprehensive collection of memorabilia. Past artefacts have included weapons used in the air raids of World War 1, and a propeller blade from a Gother bomber.
Naturally, the museum has an impressive collection of aircraft, documenting the changes in aviation though the years. The displays include a full-size replica of the first Spitfire prototype, the aircraft that set the world air speed record of 616 mph in 1946, and an extremely rare Supermarine Swift.
The museum is divided into different exhibition halls, specialising in a number of different areas throughout history. As well as the Tangmere Hall, illustrating the local history of the area, there is the new Meryl Hansed Hall, the Merton Hall and the Middle Hall, with an extensive collection of RAF armaments. In the Battle of Britain Hall, visitors can find articles and remains from some of the air battles of WW2. Keen pilots can try their hand at ‘flying’ some of the aircraft in one of the many flight simulators found around the museum.
Throughout the year, Tangmere Museum holds a variety of events to educate and entertain visitors, using the military relics collected over time. Family Day encourages guests of all ages to visit and learn about the history of military aviation. There are also events focusing on some of the most popular attractions, including Military Vehicle Day and Model Aircraft Day. There is plenty to see and do to attract visitors, with a variety of interactive displays and demonstrations exhibiting our wartime heritage.
