RAF Museum

Book now
Address
Grahame Park Way Colindale, Barnet London NW9 5LL
Opening Hours
10am - 5pm daily
How to get there
Tube: Colindale, SatNav Users: please use postcode NW9 5QW. A small parking charge applies.
Duration
2 - 3 hours+
Age
5+
Accessibility
Fully accessible
Price
FREE. Tours cost from £10pp
9.5

Based on 42 reviews

Book now
10
Our favourite museum
28 July 2025

CJ, age 11 I've been going here since I was little and I love it. There are so many different areas and you can get really close up to some amazing planes. The cafe serves great pizza and chips! I love learning about the planes and my brother likes the craft activities and the playground. My mum says it's great for wet days as there is a lot of space inside to run around.

24 April 2016

Spent an hour on the Tube to get there, only to be told U16's weren't allowed in unaccompanied. Says this nowhere on the website. Staff also rude when asked why.

24 February 2015

We've been here loads of times, but we still enjoy it.

24 February 2015

Awesome! My daughter really like the half term knitting activity, but my son didn't enjoy the queues.

24 February 2015

Lots of information so you can learn a great deal. If you like the RAF Museum, I'd recommend the Gun Powder Museum.

24 February 2015

My daughter and I were very happy and excited with all the half term activities at the museum.

Load more reviews
24 February 2015

Great! Very interesting for children of all ages and free!!

12 February 2015

Going here over half term - can't wait!

Have your say!

Leave your name, age (if under 18), review title, comment, star rating, and a parent or guardian’s email so we can verify permission. Required fields are marked *

Have your say!

About the RAF Museum

The RAF Museum in Hendon is a soaring hit for families who love planes, buttons and big “vroom” energy. With real aircraft, simulators, dress-up zones and hands-on fun for all ages, it’s free, fully accessible, and packed with wow moments—plus one of the best museum gift shops in town.

Top tip from the KidRated Team:

Don’t miss Hangar 1 first – it’s got a hands-on gallery perfect for younger kids, plus a life-size Lancaster bomber that’s seriously wow-worthy. And if you’ve got time, book a go on the Red Arrows simulator – it’s the closest most of us will get to flying a jet!

Quick Inspiration

Is the RAF Museum good for kids?

Yes, absolutely. It’s packed with real planes, hands-on exhibits, flight simulators and dressing-up zones. Perfect for kids who love to press buttons, explore, and imagine take-off.

What age is best for a visit?

It works for all ages, but ages 5+ will get the most out of it. Toddlers love the big planes, and older kids can appreciate the stories, tech and interactive zones.

What’s there for teens?

Flight simulators, Cold War exhibits, mission briefings and aviation tech, plus loads of photo ops. It’s great for STEM-loving teens and anyone with an eye on the skies.

Can we go inside the planes?

Some, yes. Look out for cockpits you can climb into. Staff are on hand to guide you,  just check the signs before hopping aboard.

Are there tours or audio guides?

It’s mostly self-guided, but QR codes and interactive screens add extra layers. Occasional tours run during holidays and themed weekends.

Is there food and drink?

Yes, the café has hot meals, snacks and kids’ options. Or bring a packed lunch and picnic beside the planes. Epic setting guaranteed.

Is it accessible?

Yes, the museum is flat and buggy/wheelchair-friendly with lifts, accessible toilets, and quiet spaces. Sensory backpacks and visual stories are available too.

Is it good for grandparents?

Very. It’s spacious, fascinating and full of history, without being heavy. Most grandparents will love the nostalgia, tech and chance to share stories from their own childhoods.

How long should we stay?

Give yourself at least 2–3 hours, but it can easily stretch to a full day if you’re taking your time and fuelling up with café stops.

Are there any entry fees or deals?

Nope, general entry is free! Some experiences like simulators or special events may cost extra, but you can easily spend a full day there without paying a penny.

You may also like