September 2020 commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, which saw the RAF take victory over the infamous German Luftwaffe. To mark the most iconic time in the UK’s aviation history, here are the top three museums you need to visit – whether you are a history enthusiast or intrigued by British warfare.
Imperial War Museum (IWM) Duxford
IWM Duxford invites visitors to its special Battle of Britain exhibition, which launched this September. Here, guests will hear the untold stories of the ordinary individuals caught up in war. As well as gaining access to authentic Battle of Britain aircraft and weapons used by the military during the troublesome five-month attack.
Duxford played a massive part in the Battle of Britain, having guided British aircraft off the ground and leading the squadrons into the battle zones. Therefore, IWM Duxford is a fitting place for the compelling stories of the 1940 aviation battle to be told.
Admission is free.
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
The Kent Battle of Britain Museum is the largest institution which marks the turbulent twists and turns of the notorious aviation fight. As well as RAF uniforms and weapons upon display, the museum also features more than 700 crashed aircraft exhibits.
Once guests have finished exploring the interior of the museum, they will be guided to the Stuart Buttle Hangar and Lord Dowding Memorial Hangar. Hurricanes, Spitfires and an air raid shelter are amongst the captivating artefacts on display, which are each authentic to the battle itself.
Tickets cost £10.
Royal Air Force Museum – Online Exhibition
Reduced capacities and social distancing measures mean many British museums are getting booked up very quickly. Factoring this in, the Royal Air Force Museum has launched an online exhibition which is jam-packed with learning, insight, and first-hand knowledge of the Battle of Britain.
As well as delving into how Britain worked tirelessly to prevent a German invasion, the exhibition also explores the economic factors and political forces which lead to the battle taking place. The immersive online exhibition is conveniently divided into easy-to-read sections, so history buffs can easily navigate through the virtual platform at their own leisure.
Exhibition is free.
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