The Royal Air Force Museum is on a mission to relocate over 50,000 historic objects to a new Collections Hub in the Midlands.
To achieve this monumental move, the Museum is inviting the public and companies to join The Crate Escape, an ambitious fundraising campaign set to unlock over a century of incredible stories from RAF history.
The RAF Museum is the guardian of a national collection, capturing every aspect of RAF life. Currently, less than 1% of the Museum’s rich collection is on public display, with many of the remaining treasures hidden away in a vast storage facility at MOD Stafford. This Aladdin’s cave of aviation heritage holds everything from aircraft and ejector seats to uniforms, medals and memorabilia, each item with its own remarkable story.
Now, in a bold new mission, the Museum will relocate these hidden treasures to a new purpose-built Collections Hub at the RAF Museum Midlands, where they will become accessible to the public for the very first time.
Ewen Cameron, Curator (Stored Collection) at the RAF Museum, said:
‘The move from Stafford to our Midlands site is no small feat. Behind the scenes, our specialist staff and dedicated volunteers are busy preparing to move more than 50,000 objects. This equates to over 31,000 hours of work identifying and cataloguing each individual object, assessing its condition, carrying out essential conservation work, and carefully cleaning and packing the objects, ready for their final journey to the Museum.’
This enormous logistical operation marks a key phase in the wider transformation of the Museum’s Midlands site. Due for completion in summer 2027, the transformation will also include a new permanent exhibition that explores the role of the RAF from 1980 through to space and cyber defence, along with a state-of-the-art Learning Centre and expanded green spaces for visitors to enjoy. The project has been made possible with the support of funders including The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Royal Air Force, as well as the RAF Museum’s own investment.
Ella Hewitt, Individual Giving Manager at the RAF Museum, said:
‘The Crate Escape isn’t just about moving objects, it’s about bringing hidden RAF stories of bravery, innovation and sacrifice to light. By sponsoring a box, supporters are helping to preserve these powerful stories and make them accessible for future generations. With your support, we can deliver history to its new home and bring our vision for a transformed RAF Museum Midlands to life, one box at a time.’
Support the RAF Museum’s mission today by visiting rafmuseum.org. Every box tells a story. Every donation makes a difference. Choose your support tier, Bronze, Silver, or Gold, and sponsor a box used in the move.
Bronze £30 – Be one of four names on a box, receive a digital certificate, and see your name added to The Crate Escape virtual wall
Silver £100 – Your name will exclusively be added to a box, receive a special thank you and pin badge through the post, and see your name added to The Crate Escape virtual wall
Gold from £1000 – Large object sponsorships are available. Choose the object you wish to sponsor, receive personalised recognition on protective coverings, and enjoy the opportunity to visit the team in action at MOD Stafford, even get hands-on and help pack!
Whatever your sponsorship tier, supporters will receive a unique box number, exclusive behind-the-scenes project updates, and the thrilling reveal of what’s inside your sponsored box, be it boots, buttons, logbooks, or even a piece of an aircraft, when it moves to its new home.To find out more about the RAF Museum’s redevelopment project and how you can get involved in The Crate Escape, visit rafmuseum.org. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free.
The Royal Air Force Museum is delighted to announce a new partnership and major investment from BAE Systems, in support of the Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme.
This significant contribution towards the redevelopment of the Museum’s Midlands site will help transform the visitor experience. Funding will support the refurbishment of a historic hangar to house a new exhibition, alongside enhanced learning and community engagement opportunities aimed at broadening access and deepening public understanding of the RAF’s role, past, present, and future.
The investment was formally announced by RAF Museum CEO Maggie Appleton and Sir Stuart Atha, Director of Defence Capability at BAE Systems, at the Museum’s spring reception on 13 May, attended by key supporters, stakeholders, dignitaries and members of the community involved in developing the programme.
As a founding partner, BAE Systems’ generous funding will be directed towards the redevelopment of a 1930s hangar which will house a new exhibition and state-of-the-art learning centre alongside visitor facilities. The new immersive exhibition will explore the RAF’s critical role from 1980 to the present day. As a trusted partner to the RAF and expertise in aerospace, defence, and advanced technology, BAE Systems is uniquely positioned to support the Museum as it explores the RAF’s evolving role in Air, Space and Cyber operations.
Highlights of the hangar will include a BAE Systems Red Arrows Hawk T1, greeting visitors as they enter, and a 1:1 model of the future Tempest combat air system, both cutting-edge technologies developed by BAE Systems.
Alongside the transformed hangar, the Museum will also deliver:
A major engagement programme that will harness the power of RAF heritage todeliver a range of creative, wellbeing and skills development activities
A purpose-built Collections Hub, enabling the Museum’s stored collection to be brought on site and opened to the public for the first time
A new public realm providing spaces for outdoor learning, activities, and picnicking, while increasing biodiversity
Maggie Appleton, RAF Museum CEO, said:
‘The RAF Museum is hugely grateful to BAE Systems for their significant investment and continued commitment to helping us transform how we share the RAF story. Our ambitious redevelopment programme will explore the Royal Air Force’s enduring impact on global aviation, innovation, and defence, while bringing to life the personal stories of those who have served, in powerful and engaging ways. This support will play a vital role in ensuring the Museum remains a place of inspiration, learning and remembrance for generations to come.’
Sir Stuart Atha, Director of Defence Capability, BAE Systems, said:
‘As a proud and long-standing supporter of the Armed Forces, we are delighted to help fund the RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme. This is an initiative that will help tell the story of the RAF and through outreach programmes inspire current and future generations. Having worked alongside the RAF throughout their history, we are honoured to help preserve our common heritage and are proud to support those who serve and protect us.’
Work on the hangar redevelopment and wider transformation programme will begin later this year, with completion expected by summer 2027. The project has been made possible with the support of funders including The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Royal Air Force, as well as the RAF Museum’s own investment. To find out more about the redevelopment project and how you can get involved, visit rafmuseum.org/midlands. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free.
Celebrate the start of a new chapter for the RAF Museum Midlands!
Strap in for an unforgettable day out! The RAF Museum Midlands is inviting families from across the region to take part in The Big Lift Off, a spectacular free event celebrating the start of an exciting site-wide transformation.
Taking place on Saturday 31 May, The Big Lift Off event will see thrilling aerial displays and lively ground activities for all ages. Look to the skies for a jaw-dropping skydiving display and awe-inspiring flypast, while on the ground, enjoy toe-tapping live music, sizzling BBQs, and interactive family games – and the best part, entry is completely FREE!
The Big Lift Off event highlights:
A spectacular Lancaster flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (weather permitting)
A dramatic skydiving display, with parachutists landing in the Museum grounds (weather permitting)
Live music from the RAF Cosford Pipes and Drums, a vintage 1940s crooner, and the RAF Cosford Voluntary Band
Step aboard the legendary Chinook ‘Bravo November’, a rare opportunity not to be missed!
Family activities galore including rocket car races, mystery prize games, photo booths with RAF uniforms and more
Be the first to see exciting new artefacts being delivered on the day via skydivers, bicycles, vintage vehicles, and on foot!
Soak up the atmosphere with BBQ and ice cream stands.
The Big Lift Off event isn’t just a great family day out, it also marks the launch of the Museum’s new fundraising appeal – The Crate Escape. This appeal will help raise the final funds needed for the exciting new redevelopment plans that include a brand-new Collections Hub at the Museum. Once completed, the new hub will house over 50,000 historic objects, making them accessible to the public for the first time.
As part of The Big Lift Off celebrations, visitors can witness the first wave of these objects begin their journey from off-site storage at MOD Stafford to the Museum, travelling across the Midlands by every means imaginable – including by parachute! These treasured items will be delivered in style by skydivers, vintage vehicles, cyclists, and even on foot. A special selection will be unveiled at the event, going on temporary display, offering visitors an exclusive first look at the Museum’s stored collection.
In addition to all the excitement of The Big Lift Off activities, both in the air and on the ground, the Museum will be open for visitors to explore a collection of more than 80 historic aircraft and enjoy flying entertainment for the whole family with flight simulators, an airfield inspired playground, interactive exhibits and more.
Pre-book your free tickets to the Big Lift Off event now at rafmuseum.org/midlands. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am, with free admission.
Work on the Museum’s major transformation will begin later this year, with completion expected in 2027 – made possible thanks to a number of funders including The National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as the RAF Museum’s own investment.
This May half term, the RAF Museum Midlands invites families to step back in time during World War Two Week, runningfrom 24 May to 1 June. Packed with immersive experiences, hands-on workshops, and creative wartime crafts, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a fun-filled family day out, while learning about one of the most extraordinary chapters in British history.
Step into the shoes of wartime families during Raid the Shelter experience, where visitors will explore a real Anderson Shelter, build a paper model version to take home, then dress up in period clothing and take part in a simulated air raid — complete with a dramatic and authentic soundscape for a truly immersive experience.
Join in the Lego Racers activity, where children can build their own World War Two-inspired vehicles and race them down a track using the power of balloons. The Campaign Posterart activity is perfect for budding artists, where they can design their own posters inspired by vintage propaganda art. Gather the family together and strike a pose at the Dress-Up Drill Sergeant Selfie Station wearing authentic wartime attire.
As you explore the Museum hangars, listen in to Audio Stories told by the charming Antis the Dog and Percy the Penguin, accessible via QR codes throughout the Museum. Join the Spy-Hunter Trail, where young code-breakers are called into action to track down stolen aircraft plans hidden somewhere in the Museum. Solve the clues correctly and earn your mission badge!
Plus, don’t miss the incredible collection of miniature aircraft and vehicle models from the Aero Space and Vehicle Club Wombourne IPMS, showcasing engineering marvels of the Second World War.
But that’s not all! The RAF Museum Midlands is also home to iconic aircraft from the period, including the world’s oldest Spitfire. Families can also enjoy a Pilot experience by climbing into an exact replica Spitfire cockpit section, or by popping on VR goggles and taking a flight in 360° as you pilot a real Spitfire in a thrilling virtual reality experience.
With free entry to the Museum and small charges between £0-£5 for selected activities, this is a brilliant and budget-friendly day out that promises fun for all ages. For full details and to book activities in advance, visit rafmuseum.org.uk/midlands. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free.
On the 80th anniversary of VE Day, The National Lottery Heritage Fund announces major funding to celebrate the heritage of the Royal Air Force and the Royal Marines and safeguard it for future generations
20 million people in the UK have direct connections with the RAF – RAF Museum Midlands in Cosford awarded £9.3m for a wide-ranging Engagement Programme, national exhibition, learning centre, collections hub and enhanced public realm
The Royal Marines have a history spanning 360 years – National Museum of the Royal Navy in Portsmouth awarded £4.4m to transform historic boathouse and create a dedicated Royal Marines Experience
Today, Thursday 8 May, The National Lottery Heritage Fund announces funding of £13.7m for plans to transform the RAF Museum Midlands in Cosford and to transform a historic boathouse and create a Royal Marines Experience at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
The news comes on the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, which will see events take place across the UK to commemorate those who served in the Second World War and remember how the UK marked the moment in 1945.
Royal Air Force and Royal Marines personnel played essential roles during the Second World War demonstrating extreme bravery and sacrifice as they helped deliver Allied victory. Objects and stories from the period form a key part of the two museums’ collections and displays.
The RAF Museum Midlands is home to the world’s oldest Spitfire and exhibitions exploring the Battle of Britain and Bomber Command. The National Museum of the Royal Navy’ D-Day Museum is the guardian of LCT 7074, the last surviving landing craft tank from D-Day, just one of the many sea-based operations the Royal Marines were involved in during the Second World War.
Today’s National Lottery investment will support plans to transform how the RAF’s 100+ year story is shared and to create a display telling the 360-year story of the Royal Marines.
Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:
“As people across the UK mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, it is evident that the legacy of the Second World War and our armed forces are a key part of our historical narrative.
“Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, we are delighted to help safeguard and share the heritage of the Royal Air Force and Royal Marines for people to learn from for generations to come.
“The funding will unlock the doors to hidden collections, explore new perspectives on the history and future of the RAF and Royal Marines and create fantastic opportunities for people and tourism in Cosford, Gosport and beyond.
“Crucially, these projects will help new audiences to discover, draw inspiration from and forge connections with the stories of the RAF and Royal Marines, helping to ensure the heritage is valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future.”
The Royal Air Force Museum Midlands has been awarded £9,286,778 by the Heritage Fund for its Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme.
The RAF Museum is the guardian of a national collection that spans over a century of RAF history, capturing every aspect of RAF life. Yet, today, less than 1% of this inspiring heritage is accessible to the public. A new Collections Hub at the Museum’s Midlands site will unlock the doors to stored objects for the first time, enabling public access to artefacts of regional, national and international importance.
During the Second World War, RAF Cosford played a vital role in training engineers and delivering Spitfires built in the Midlands. The National Lottery supported programme will redevelop a 1930s hangar as a new exhibition and Learning Centre,
continuing this legacy of skills building, with a focus on STEM, geography, art and design.
A new exhibition will explore the critical role of the Royal Air Force since 1980.
Visitors will discover how the RAF’s mission continues today and imagine how the service will adapt in the future as it delivers 24/7 Air, Land, Maritime, Space and Cyber defence.
The transformation extends beyond the buildings. A new public realm will provide spaces for outdoor events, learning, rest and relaxation. A three-year multi-strand Engagement Programme will offer activities onsite, offsite and online.
It is estimated that 20 million people in the UK have direct connections with the RAF. This project will protect that heritage and enable future generations to explore and draw inspiration from the remarkable RAF story.
Maggie Appleton, CEO of the Royal Air Force Museum, said:
“Warm thanks on behalf of all our team to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and to all National Lottery players. This very generous support will enable us to engage with our communities and wider partners to care for and share our collections and their fascinating stories in new, ambitious and creative ways.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors to the RAF Museum Midlands on Saturday 31 May to celebrate the project launch and find out how to get involved in a packed day of activity with a special Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypast.
“To find out more about the Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme and how you can get involved, visit rafmuseum.org/midlands.”
Sir Richard Knighton KCB ADC FREng, Chief of the Air Staff, said:
“Development of the Museum’s Midlands site is strategically important to the Royal Air Force. The opportunities to improve our STEM outreach together, improve our exposure in a very diverse community, and improve how we tell the compelling story of our recent history are vitally important. The Royal Air Force is therefore delighted to support this development.”
The National Museum of the Royal Navy has been awarded £4.4m to for its plans to establish The Royal Marines Experience Museum in Portsmouth.
The Royal Marines are the nation’s elite amphibious force who deploy at sea and on land, around the globe, in peace and in war. The new display will take visitors on a compelling journey through four centuries of Royal Marines history – from the creation of its forerunner in 1664 to today.
The amazing objects, exhibitions, galleries and hands-on experiences will inspire by showcasing remarkable personal stories, immense teamwork and qualities of resilience that can help us all navigate today’s complex and often demanding world.
Visitors will be able to follow the story across the ground floor of Boathouse 6, choosing to explore through an active immersive route and / or through an object rich multi-media exploration of the history of the Corps. The intention is that the story of the Royal Marines will be told in a truly active and engaging way, enabling visitors not only to learn about who the Royal Marines are (past and present), but also inviting them to partake in a number of tasks designed to give a taste of the level of physical and mental fitness required to do the job. Displays and their content will draw on examples past and present and will put the Royal Marines ethos at the heart of the story.
The Boathouse 6 project, which will cost c£15million in total, will also house a new dedicated Special Exhibition Gallery and Royal Marines themed Laser Quest. This new extraordinary, compelling and flexible space inside the historic former boathouse and overlooking the Scheduled Monument and Grade II* Listed Mast Pond will measure 400m2 and will be one of the biggest temporary exhibition spaces in the South of England. This will enable the Museum to stage temporary exhibitions that refresh the offer at the Historic Dockyard and can attract new and different audiences, create opportunities for wider partnership working and explore a wide range of arts, culture and heritage narratives.
Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE ADC First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff said in his letter of support for the project:
“The Royal Navy places great value on the importance of tradition and preserving our heritage for future generations. The Royal Marines story of daring, duty and sacrifice deserves to be recognised and celebrated. The new museum will showcase what makes a Royal Marine, illustrating their prestigious history from their origins in 1664 to the Commando Force of the next generation. It will also be a place for celebration, commemoration, and reflection in the city of Portsmouth, a place steeped in rich naval history. I am certain that funds allocated to this project will be utilised most effectively to make a positive and lasting contribution to our local community.”
Matthew Sheldon CEO of the National Museum of the Royal Navy, said: “This generous support from the National Lottery and its players marks a major milestone in the delivery of an innovative approach to sharing the incredible stories of our service community. It is apt that we make this announcement on VE Day – as we reflect on the contribution of our veteran community 80 years ago. The idea of the ‘Commando’ was born in the dark days of 1940, and has been shaped and re-shaped by the Royal Marines Commandos in the last 80 years. Our project will have a particular focus on this recent history and seek to bring the endeavour, courage and conflict inherent in those stories to life through modern interpretative and digital techniques that enable us to speak to diverse and wide-ranging audiences.”
The RAF Museum Midlands is delighted to announce a very special weekend of celebrations on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
VE Day signifies the historic end of the Second World War in Europe, and the Museum warmly invites visitors of all ages to join a vibrant programme of music, interactive workshops, and heartfelt remembrance.
A highlight of the weekend will be a flypast by the iconic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster bomber, taking place on Saturday 10 May between 1.30pm and 1.40pm (weather permitting). This stirring tribute will honour the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of those who served during the conflict.
Visitors can soak up the spirit of the occasion with an uplifting afternoon VE Day Concert, featuring live performances from 1.00pm to 3.30pm. Proceedings will open with a welcome and commemorative poem from veterans of the National Service (RAF) Association. The RAF Voluntary Band Cosford will fill the air with rousing tunes, while The Bluebird Belles, a beloved 1940s vocal trio, will revive the joyful sounds of the wartime era with their popular swing classics.
Throughout the weekend, a host of free, family-friendly activities will be on offer. Get creative at the VE Day Bunting Workshop and help craft a Union Jack-themed display for the hangar. Step into the shoes of an RAF pilot by trying on period uniforms and capturing a memorable selfie, or relax in the Museum’s Lecture Theatre to watch original VE Day footage that captures the euphoric celebrations of 1945.
Families are encouraged to dress the part! Come along in your favourite 1940s outfit — civilian or Allied uniforms only — for the chance to win the Best Dressed Family Prize.
Mike Groves, RAF Museum Midlands Public Events Manager said:
‘We’re thrilled to welcome visitors for a weekend packed with fun, music, and shared memories as we mark 80 years since Victory in Europe Day. With flying displays, vintage tunes, hands-on workshops, and more, it’s a wonderful chance to come together, reflect, and celebrate the resilience, sacrifice, and community spirit that defined this momentous chapter in history. Bring a picnic and chair, settle in, and join us for a truly unforgettable occasion.’
Entry to the Museum and all VE Day activities is free. For a full event schedule, visit rafmuseum.org/midlands. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am, with free admission.
To say thank you for the £30million raised for Good Causes every week by players, hundreds of National Lottery-funded venues across the UK will be offering free entry, discounts and special offers throughout National Lottery Open Week
National Lottery Open Week runs 15-23 March and aims to encourage people to say yes to simple pleasures this spring
The RAF Museum is offering lottery players 2 for 1 on Flight Simulator and 4D Theatre rides, plus 10% off in the Museum shop and restaurant
To say thank you for the £30 million raised for good causes every week by players, there is free entry and special offers at a range of National Lottery funded venues across the UK as part of National Lottery Open Week.
From Saturday 15 – Sunday 23 March 2025, anyone with a valid online or retail National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game can enjoy a low-cost day out thanks to free or discounted entry and special offers at hundreds of National Lottery-funded venues and attractions, including the RAF Museum in both London and the Midlands.
Delve into the past with historical houses, castles and museums, embrace nature in all its glory at wildlife hotspots, relive iconic moments at famous sports venues or enjoy a culture fix at art galleries and cinemas across the country. There is something for everyone.
Visit the RAF Museum this National Lottery Open Week and enjoy flying entertainment for the whole family, with 2 for 1 tickets onFlight Simulator and 4D Theatre rides. Experiences include flying with the Red Arrows in the amazing 4D theatre, combining motion picture with physical effects. Or feel the speed and agility of the Eurofighter Typhoon onboard the Flight Simulator, with a pilot’s eye view from the cockpit. It’s guaranteed family fun for thrill-seekers of all ages!
National Lottery ticket holders will also receive 10% off in the Museum shop for the duration of the Open Week. Receive money off an extensive collection of clothing, gifts, models and kits, home and kitchenware, toys, games, jewellery and much more!
After exploring the hangars at the Museum, relax and refuel in the onsite restaurant and enjoy 10% off a great selection of food and drink, including barista coffees, homemade cakes, hot lunches or snacks from the deli. To redeem your discounts at the Museum, simply show your National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game to a member of staff. To find out more about what’s on offer at the Museum and to plan your visit, go to rafmuseum.org.
Barry Smith, Director of Visitor and Commercial Development at RAF Museum said:
‘We’re delighted to be participating in National Lottery Open Week this year. Like many organisations across the UK, we have directly benefited from National Lottery funding, which has been instrumental in advancing our Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme. This transformative project will bring significant changes to our Midlands site, including an immersive exhibition exploring today’s RAF, a new Learning Centre, and a purpose built Collections Hub, allowing us to share our stored collection with the public for the first time. These developments will be complemented by a regional engagement programme, with work set to begin later this year. National Lottery players make an invaluable contribution to good causes, and we are thrilled to have this opportunity to say thank you. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the RAF Museum during Open Week.’
To view all venues and offers that are available throughout The National Lottery Open Week, visit www.nationallotteryopenweek.com.
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England and Chair of the National Lottery Forum said: ‘We’re excited to bring back National Lottery Open Week 2025! Life’s pace often pushes us to say ‘no’ to things we want to do, prioritising instead the things we think we ‘should do’. National Lottery Open Week is a chance to say ‘yes’ to joyful experiences – exploring the UK’s rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture through free and low-cost days out. It is our way of thanking National Lottery players who raise £30 million every week for Good Causes, supporting vital projects in arts, sports, heritage, and communities nationwide.’ Terms and conditions and booking instructions across special offers will vary, check the individual offer listing for details.
This ambitious project will deliver a major regional engagement programme, alongside a site transformation, including:
A new immersive exhibition will explore the critical role of the RAF since 1980 to today, imagining how the service will adapt in the future as it delivers 24/7 Air, Space and Cyber defence
A new Learning Centre co-designed with students and teachers will provide bespoke facilities for lifelong learning programmes in subjects ranging from science, technology, engineering and maths, to geography, art and design
A new purpose-built Collections Hub will enable the Museum’s stored collection to be brought on site and opened to the public for the first time, providing opportunities for research, conservation, activities, talks and tours
The complementary development of a new public realm will provide spaces for outdoor activities, rest and relaxation, and picnicking.
The Wolfson Foundation’s £650k grant for the RAF Museum was announced in their latest round of grants. The generous funding from the Wolfson Foundation is a significant contribution to the Museum’s fundraising campaign for the project and will be specifically directed towards the creation of a new Learning Centre.
Maggie Appleton, RAF Museum CEO, said:
‘We are deeply grateful to the Wolfson Foundation for their generous £650,000 investment. This will play a pivotal role in the creation of our new Learning Centre, enabling us to inspire future generations and share the RAF’s stories in innovative and engaging ways for people of all ages. The Learning Centre will transform our offer for school groups, enabling us to accommodate an additional 8,000 students per year. These state-of-the-art facilities will include two analogue and two digital classrooms, lunch spaces for up to 120 students, and spaces for outdoor learning. Support from the Wolfson Foundation underscores the importance of education, and we are delighted to have them as a key partner in this transformative project.’
Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of the Wolfson Foundation, said:
‘We are delighted to support the redevelopment of the RAF Museum Midlands, especially the new Learning Centre. Support for education is at the heart of our work, and this ambitious project will engage and inspire new audiences, including young people, by connecting them with the story of the RAF in fresh and innovative ways.’
The Development Programme will increase the Museum’s capacity to engage with a wider, more diverse audience than ever before. The transformation will be underpinned by, and feed into, activities that welcome more of our communities to use the RAF Museum and RAF story as a resource, enabling the Museum to play a more impactful role across the Midlands. The project will also support the Museum’s ambition to become a Carbon Net Zero organisation. Work will commence later this year and is expected to be complete by summer 2027.
The Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme is supported by a number of funders including The National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as the RAF Museum’s own investment.
To find out more about the redevelopment project and how you can get involved, visit rafmuseum.org/midlands. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free.
The RAF Museum Midlands line-up of events for 2025 will deliver something for everyone, with immersive activities, historical commemorations, and plenty of family fun.
Highlights of the 2025 Calendar:
STEM Week (15 – 23 February) Explore the exciting world of STEM this February half term, with explosive science shows, and flight simulators galore. Journey to the stars in the mobile planetarium, fly a quadcopter on a mission, or build a LEGO dragster and compete in a race powered by balloons.
Pilot Training (12 – 27 April) Perfect for aspiring young pilots. Embark on a series of exciting missions, honing essential skills and teamwork needed to take to the skies. Upon successfully completing all the challenges, you’ll be awarded your very own pilot badge.
VE Day (10 – 11 May) Marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe, the Museum’s VE Day celebrations will feature live outdoor performances, bunting craft workshops contributing to a hangar installation, engaging lectures on wartime rationing and more!
World War Two Week (24 May – 1 June) Step back in time with this immersive family event, packed with hands-on activities and historical fun! Visit the Airfix station to build your own World War Two aircraft model and have a go at crafting a mini-Anderson shelter. Learn the art of Morse code in our engaging workshops and take part in a wartime trail.
Summer of Fun and Flight (19 July – 31 August) Enjoy a summer-long programme of activities for families. Challenge yourself to a round of mini golf or try your hand at archery. Unleash your creativity with flight themed crafts, and marvel at birds of prey in action. There are new experiences each week, keeping families entertained throughout the school break.
Battle of Britain Weekend (20 – 21 September) Celebrating the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain with a weekend of family-friendly activities and experiences. A spectacular line-up of live music, dance performances, and acrobatics will light up the stage. Join in the have-a-go activities, sample tasty street food, and explore exhibits showcasing regional talent and history. It’s an unforgettable day of live entertainment!
Jet and Space Week (25 October – 2 November) Prepare for an out of this world half term! Explore the night sky with stargazing evenings and watch the Museum’s beloved mascot Percy go to space. Build a paper rocket, take part in a planet-themed trail, and capture photos in the astronaut selfie station.
Remembrance Service (9 November)
The Museum will host a Service of Remembrance to honour members of the armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice during their tours of duty. The service will be led by RAF Cosford’s Station Chaplain, with hymns from the Cosford Military Wives Choir.
Elf Training (13 –14 and 20 –21 December) Get into the festive spirit with the Royal Elf Force as they conduct their annual Elf Cadet Training. New recruits will take on festive challenges and help Santa with his biggest mission of the year! New for 2025, enjoy a special screening of ‘The Snowman’ accompanied by an interactive light show, plus fun snowman-themed activities for all ages.
RAF Museum Public Events Manager, Mike Groves said:
‘The RAF Museum Midlands 2025 events line-up will captivate and inspire visitors of all ages. From the exciting STEM Week in February, to commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re soaking up the fun all summer long, experiencing an out of this world Jet and Space Week in October, or getting festive with our Elf Cadets, 2025 is set to be a year filled with unforgettable memories.’
For more information on any of the events taking place at the RAF Museum Midlands throughout 2025, visit www.rafmuseum.org/midlands. Admission charges apply for some events and activities, tickets are available online. Events may be subject to change and additional events may be added during the year.
The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free.
Plans are underway at the Royal Air Force Museum Midlands for the wing section of an iconic Second World War Dornier Do 17 to go on public display in early 2025. Salvaged after more than 70 years submerged beneath the waters of the Goodwin Sands, this rare artefact offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past.
Nicknamed the ‘Flying Pencil’ due to its slender fuselage, the Do 17 played a pivotal role in the early stages of the Second World War and is best remembered for its involvement in the Battle of Britain. Of more than 1,500 Do 17 bombers produced, over 400 were deployed by the Luftwaffe during the pivotal battle. Today, only one remains complete.
The wing section set to be displayed comes from this sole surviving Do 17, recovered in a landmark operation led by the RAF Museum in 2013. The dramatic moment the aircraft was lifted from the seabed and surfaced from the waters was broadcast live, capturing global attention. The recovery and subsequent conservation efforts have since fascinated not only aviation enthusiasts and historians but also scientists and engineers, all intrigued by the challenge of preserving this historic airframe for future generations.
Dr Harry Raffal, RAF Museum Head of Collections and Research said:
‘This is a remarkable moment for aviation history in Britain. After more than tens of years of intensive conservation, treatment and stabilisation, the Do 17 will go on public display. It represents not only the culmination of an extraordinary salvage operation but a unique way of understanding the Battle of Britain. The new year will see the Do 17 wing section, propellers, and engines situated alongside a Boulton-Paul Defiant, the very type that delivered the final blows to this Do 17. Our audience will see first-hand the thin edge of technology which enabled the RAF and Luftwaffe to fight out the most important battle of a generation.’
Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with the wing section, propellers, and engines, through enhanced interpretation and delve deeper into the aircraft’s story. Uncover the aircraft’s historical significance in aerial warfare, the events leading to its demise, and the extraordinary salvage operation and unique preservation techniques employed to safeguard its legacy.
The Do 17 wing section will be available for public viewing from early 2025, subject to suitable weather conditions for the move. The Museum invites aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike to explore this unique addition to the collection. This extraordinary exhibition will be a chance to reflect on the aircraft’s role in one of Britain’s most defining moments in history.
The fuselage will remain in store for the time being, owing to space constraints in the hangars, but the Museum retains the option to display it in future alongside the wing section.
