Imperial War Museum Duxford

Imperial War Museum Duxford in Cambridgeshire is one of Europe’s largest aviation museums, located on the historic Duxford Aerodrome. The museum explores the history of aviation and warfare through an extensive collection of aircraft, military vehicles and interactive exhibitions spread across multiple hangars. Visitors can discover iconic aircraft from different eras, including wartime fighter planes, Cold War jets and the famous Concorde. Major exhibitions include the Battle of Britain display, which recreates a wartime airfield environment, and the American Air Museum, showcasing aircraft used by the United States Air Force. Other areas of the site feature tanks, artillery and military vehicles, giving visitors a broad insight into the development of air and land warfare throughout modern history.

Accessibility is well supported across the large open air site to provide a mobility friendly experience. The attraction has its own car park with 19 designated disabled parking spaces located approximately 50 metres from the main entrance. Level access is available from the car park to the Visitor Centre entrance, and most exhibition spaces are located on the ground floor. Where level changes occur between galleries, ramps and lifts are available. Two lifts provide access to mezzanine areas in Hangar 1 and another accessible lift is available in the Operations Block.

Because the museum site covers a large area of approximately one mile from end to end, a free accessible site transport vehicle operates throughout the day and can accommodate wheelchair users. Manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters are also available to borrow from the Visitor Centre, and these can be booked in advance to ensure availability. Pathways between hangars are generally even surfaces, though visitors may encounter a mix of concrete and grass areas when moving between buildings.

Accessible toilets are located in several areas across the site including Hall 1, Hall 5, Hall 8, the Visitor Centre and café areas. The museum also features a registered Changing Places facility in Hangar 1 next to the Visitor Centre, equipped with a height adjustable bench, hoist system and shower, which can be accessed with a RADAR key. Induction loops are installed in multiple locations including the Visitor Centre admissions desk, shop, Historic Duxford exhibition and American Air Museum. Many films and audio visual displays include subtitles, and some exhibitions provide British Sign Language interpretation and transcript booklets for audio displays.

Additional accessibility resources include sensory backpacks and ear defenders available to borrow from the Visitor Centre, designed to support visitors with sensory needs. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the site, although visitors should be aware that Duxford is an active airfield where aircraft may take off or land during the day. Free carer entry is available for those accompanying a paying disabled visitor with appropriate supporting documentation.

With its vast aircraft collection, immersive hangars and inclusive visitor facilities, Imperial War Museum Duxford offers an impressive and accessible aviation experience in Cambridgeshire.