Best free museum ever (Royal Air Force Museum (London))

Member Name: oddjobs

Product:	Royal Air Force Museum (London)
Date:	05/09/09 (83 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: it's FREE!!!

Disadvantages: Pricey souvenirs, busy

I have recently visited Royal Airforce Museum with my dauhter and son and it was a great day out. I think it is a must visit when visiting London as it is only 6 miles away from centrum.
Getting in is very easy as the Museum is clearly signposted. Nearest train / underground stations are :Mill Hill Broadway ( rail station is 15 minute walk away ) and Colindale Underground on the Edgware branch of the Northern Line. To travel to the museum by car , follow the tourist signs from M25, M1 (Junction 4 Southbound), A41, A5 and North Circular (A406) roads. The Museum has a large free and well marked car and coach park.

The Museums collections represent a record of technological and historical change. Museum houses a world-class collection of aircraft ,memorabilia and various vehicles & engines used by the RAF during its history. I still remeber some of them - Eurofighter Typhoon, the old Hanriot or de Havilland Mosquito. Additionally museum houses the Battle of Britain collection ,World War I aircraft collection ( situated in the Bomber Hall) and medal & uniform colection.

Entry is ( surprisingly ) free for everyone but you will have to pay extra for Typhoon simulator flights ( app. 2.95 per person). If you wish you can purchase very useful RAF booklets .

Available facilities and activities:
Full disabled and buggy access ( inc. Lifts and toilets)
Baby changing rooms
Cloakroom storage
Guided tours
3D Cinema
Educational and learning activities for school and scout groups.
Aeronauts earning centre where children can learn how an aeroplane moves through the air in this exciting interactive science centre . Area has over 40 interactive units and really provides hours of fun! Don't forget that all children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Indoor and outdoor picnic areas - some with parasols. You can bring your own lunch but you must not consume food in the display area. If you wish you can eat in licensed restaurant ( Wings ) or purchase drinks and snacks from the Wessex Cafe.
Small shop offers a huge selection of souvenirs, books, postcards, RAF uniforms, RAF t-shirts, planes, posters ,sweets etc. Some ( made in China) were pricey. I bought one book - Military Aircraft of the 1960s for £18.99 - other souvenirs were far more expensive! . The cheapest plastic toys ( pocket toys) were for £0.50-2.99.

Museum is open daily from 10.00am -6.00pm . Closed 24-26th December and 1st, 5th-9th January. No entry after 5.30pm.

I would certainly visit RAF museum soon and i would recommend trip to museum to lots of people - children, mums, dads etc. Nice place to stay any time!

Summary: Highly recommended place - a 'must' visit for all Londoners