About The Midland Air Museum
The Midland Air Museum is an aviation museum located in Coventry, England. It features a collection of over 30 aircraft, as well as engines, propellers, and other aviation-related artefacts. The museum’s collection includes both military and civilian aircraft from the early 20th century to the present day. Some of the notable aircraft on display include an Avro Lancaster bomber, a Hawker Hurricane fighter, and a Bristol Britannia airliner. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors of all ages. It is open to the public year-round, with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s Day.
The Midland Air Museum was founded in 1979 by a group of aviation enthusiasts. The museum’s collection began with a small number of aircraft and has grown over the years to include over 30 aircraft and numerous other aviation-related artefacts. The museum has also expanded its facilities over time to include several large hangars, a library and research centre, and a gift shop.
Notable exhibits
The Midland Air Museum has several notable exhibits in its collection, including:
- Avro Lancaster: One of the most famous British bombers of World War II, the Lancaster was used in a variety of roles, including bombing, mine-laying, and reconnaissance.
- Hawker Hurricane: The Hurricane was one of the most important British fighters of World War II and played a key role in the Battle of Britain.
- Bristol Britannia: A four-engine turboprop airliner that was used by a number of airlines in the 1950s and 1960s.
- Gloster Meteor: The first British jet fighter and the Allies' only jet aircraft to achieve combat operations during World War II.
- de Havilland Mosquito: A twin-engine multirole combat aircraft that served as a bomber, reconnaissance aircraft, and night fighter during World War II.
- Westland Lysander: A British army cooperation and liaison aircraft that served during World War II.
- English Electric Canberra: A British first-generation jet-powered medium bomber that was operated by the Royal Air Force (RAF) and other air forces during the 1950s and 1960s.
- Supermarine Spitfire: A British single-seat fighter aircraft that was used by the Royal Air Force and many other Allied countries before, during, and after World War II.
These are some of the notable exhibits at Midland Air Museum, there are many more aircraft and artifacts that are on display and it changes from time to time.
Food & drink
The Midland Air Museum does not have an on-site restaurant but the museum does have a cafe which serves a variety of hot and cold beverages, light snacks and sandwiches, and ice creams. The cafe is open during the museum's opening hours and provides a convenient place for visitors to take a break and refuel during their visit. It may be the case that due to covid-19, the cafe hours or services have been changed or temporarily suspended. Visitors are advised to check the museum's website or call ahead to verify the current status of the cafe.
Additionally, the museum's gift shop sells a range of aviation-related souvenirs, books, and models. Visitors can also find a picnic area to enjoy their own food and drinks.
Length of visit
The length of time needed to visit the Midland Air Museum will vary depending on the interests and preferences of the individual visitor. Some visitors may prefer to take their time and explore the museum in-depth, while others may prefer to take a quick tour. On average, most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours at the museum.
However, the museum's exhibits are extensive and there is a lot to see, so visitors who are particularly interested in aviation history may want to plan for a longer visit. The museum also offers guided tours, which can take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the tour selected.
It is advisable to check the museum's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on the opening hours, ticket prices and any temporary closures, as these details may change due to the ongoing pandemic.
Hints & tips
- Plan your visit: Check the museum's website for information on opening hours, ticket prices, and any special events or temporary closures.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The museum is quite large and there is a lot of walking involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
- Bring a camera: The museum has many interesting exhibits, and visitors are welcome to take photographs for personal use.
- Guided tours: Guided tours are available and can provide a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits and the history of aviation.
- Allow enough time: The museum has a lot to see and explore, so allow enough time to fully enjoy your visit.
- Check the weather: The museum is located outdoors and most of the exhibits are open-air, so visitors should check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, but visitors should check the website or call ahead to confirm the accessibility of specific exhibits.
Travel Directions
The Midland Air Museum is located in Coventry, England.
By car: The museum is located just off the A45, which is easily accessible from the M6, M1, and M40. The museum has ample free car parking.
By bus: The museum is served by several bus routes, including the 4, 4A, 4B, and 4C. Buses stop nearby on the A45.
By train: The nearest train station is Coventry, which is about 4 miles away from the museum. Visitors can then take a bus or taxi to the museum.
By air: The nearest airport is Birmingham International, which is about 12 miles away from the museum. Visitors can then take a bus or train to Coventry, and then a bus or taxi to the museum.
It is recommended to check the museum's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on travel directions, as these details may change.
