Tangmere Military Aviation Museum
Historic RAF airfield museum with aircraft, simulators and memorial gardens
At a Glance
Best Ages
5+ years
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor & outdoor
Weather Fit
Great for rainy days
Stroller Access
Yes, mostly step-free
Washrooms
On-site with baby change
Food
Café on-site
Parking
Free on-site parking
Booking
Walk-in welcome
Parent Effort
Low (self-guided)
A thoughtfully presented military aviation museum that brings history to life for families through real aircraft, hands-on flight simulators and atmospheric exhibition halls. The site balances education with engagement, making it a rewarding outing for school-age children and aviation enthusiasts alike.
About This Place
The Tangmere Military Aviation Museum at the former RAF Tangmere airfield in West Sussex preserves the history of military aviation with a focus on the Battle of Britain and the legendary wartime airfield itself. The collection includes original aircraft, wartime memorabilia, reconstructed scenes, and interactive displays tracing the development of the RAF from its earliest days. A poignant memorial garden honours the many airmen who flew from Tangmere during the Second World War.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 10:00 – 17:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Real aircraft & cockpits
See original military planes up close and explore reconstructed cockpits and wartime scenes.
Hands-on flight simulators
Kids can 'fly' WWII fighters and shoot down enemy aircraft in the popular combat simulator.
Memorial gardens
Peaceful outdoor space to reflect, with picnic tables and room to stretch little legs.
On-site café
The Cockpit Café serves locally sourced cakes, light meals and award-winning ice cream.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Assistance dogs only indoors
- Only assistance dogs are allowed inside the museum buildings; all dogs are welcome in the grounds and picnic area.
- Free parking
- Ample free parking on flat ground, including four blue-badge spaces near the entrance.
- Carers admitted free
- Carers enter free with suitable ID; disabled visitors pay standard rates.
- Gift Aid option
- UK taxpayers can choose a 10% higher donation ticket so the museum claims extra Gift Aid.
- Group discount
- 10% off for pre-booked groups of 12+ paid in a single transaction.
- Wheelchairs available
- Several adult wheelchairs available to borrow at no charge.
- Last admission
- One hour before closing time each day.
Kid Fit by Age
May enjoy the spacious halls and café, but exhibits are not geared to infants.
Some interactive elements; simulators have age/height restrictions. Best with close supervision.
Flight simulators and aircraft are exciting; plan shorter visits and use the café breaks.
Ideal age for the simulators, exhibits and wartime stories; highly engaging.
Strong interest in aviation history, hands-on simulators and detailed displays.
Plenty of depth for history enthusiasts; simulators remain fun.
Insider Tips
Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the most from the flight simulators without queuing.
Pick up the free exhibit map at reception to help children navigate the halls.
Combine the visit with a cream tea or afternoon tea (pre-booking required) in the Cockpit Café.
- •Children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- •Some indoor areas can become warmer than outside during hot weather; bring water and take regular breaks.
- •Large heavy-duty mobility scooters cannot be accommodated in some corridors due to width restrictions.
- •Wheelchair-accessible entrance and mostly level access throughout exhibition halls and café.
- •One disabled toilet near the entrance with grab rails, transfer space and emergency alarm.
- •Audio guides available; staff are disability-aware and happy to assist.
- •Seating is available throughout the museum for rest breaks.
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings tend to be quieter. The museum is open daily from mid-February to late November; February and November have shorter hours (10am–4pm) and can be less crowded.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxWater bottles, especially on warm days as some halls heat up.
- check_boxCamera for photos with the aircraft and in the cockpits.
- check_boxComfortable shoes for walking around the exhibition halls and grounds.
Location
Address
Gamecock Terrace, Tangmere, Chichester PO20 2ES, United Kingdom
Phone
+441243790090