RAF Scampton Historical Museum

RAF Scampton historical museum and guided tours of the base are done throughout the year by appointment only. Tour takes approximately 1½ to 2 hours. This facility is by kind permission of RAF Scampton and Cranwell authorities.

The museum is located on the famous bomber base from which 617 Squadron, the Dam Busters, flew their legendary raid in May 1943. For his leadership on this raid, Wing Commander Guy Gibson was awarded the Victoria Cross, the third to be awarded to someone based at Scampton during WWII; the previous recipients being Flight Lieutenant Roderick Learoyd and Sergeant John Hannah.

However, the museum is not just dedicated to that particular mission, as it also covers the history of the base from 1917 up to the present day as the home of the RAF's aerobatic display team; the Red Arrows. Also featured prominently is the station's role as a V-Force base for the Vulcan, equipped with its Blue Steel missile.

See the collection of ejection seats and modern 'bone dome' helmets as worn by today's aircrew.

Walk around the two-thirds scale model of the Thor intermediate nuclear missile, which was based in the county in the early sixties and formed part of our national deterrent.

Look at the on-site locations on the base where the famous film the Dam Busters was shot. And if you are lucky, the Reds will be taking off or landing after a practice sortie.

The Heritage Centre is open every day but by appointment only so call or email to arrange your visit in advance.