RAF Museum London
a century of flight, all free
Over a hundred aircraft across giant hangars on a former north London aerodrome, free, from a Sopwith Camel to a Spitfire to the bombers and jets of the modern age.
Free to visit · Colindale · Colindale · NW9 5LL
Opening: Daily 10am–6pm
Built on the site of the old Hendon Aerodrome, one of the birthplaces of British aviation, the RAF Museum London tells the story of flight and the air force across a set of huge free hangars. More than a hundred aircraft hang and stand around you, and entry costs nothing.
It spans the whole century of powered flight, from flimsy First World War biplanes to a Spitfire and a Hurricane, through the bombers of the Second World War to Cold War jets and modern fighters. Standing under the wings of these machines gives you a real sense of their scale that no photo ever does.
It is one of the best free days out for families and plane enthusiasts in London, with interactive bits, flight simulators for a small fee and plenty of space for kids to run. Worth the trip out to the end of the Northern line.
Getting there: A short walk from Colindale on the Northern line, in the far north of the city.
Best time to go: A weekday or early on a weekend, especially in the school holidays when families pack the hangars.
Insider tip: It is a fair way out, so make a proper half day of it and you will not regret the journey. The permanent hangars are all free, only a few extras like the flight simulators are paid, so you can fill hours without spending a penny.
Official site: https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk
Free things to do in London · London Free Guide