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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 18 May, 2023

This world-renowned museum showcases the history and achievements of the Royal Air Force, one of the oldest and most distinguished air forces in the world. It covers World War I, the RAF Nursing Service, bombers, helicopters, Battle of Britain, marine craft and an aircraft factory.

The museum’s vast collection includes a wide range of aircraft, aviation artefacts, interactive exhibits, and multimedia displays that highlight the evolution of aviation technology and the heroic endeavours of RAF personnel. There are flight simulations, a 4D theatre, a Spitfire experience, and a Dambusters VR factory.

Don't miss

The historic ‘Battle of Britain’ exhibition commemorates the RAF’s heroic defence of Britain during World War II. It’s an immersive experience that will transport you back to the pivotal moments of the famous air campaign during World War II.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 5+
When: All year around

When to do it

The museum is open all year round, seven days a week.

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Portobello Hotel

London, United Kingdom (UK)[9.8 miles]

A colourful boutique hotel with an even more colourful rock’n’roll history, in the boho-chic residential quarter between Portobello Road and Notting Hill.

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Durrants Hotel

London, United Kingdom (UK)[10.6 miles]

This grand, family-run hotel has the warmth, intimacy and polished service of a gentlemen’s club in uber-trendy and sophisticated Marylebone.

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St. Pancras Renaissance

London, United Kingdom (UK)[10.8 miles]

British heritage at its best in this landmark, Victorian railway hotel, moments from the Eurostar terminal.

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The Standard London

London, United Kingdom (UK)[10.9 miles]

One of London’s hippest hotels, set in a Brutalist 70’s building reimagined as a playful, stylish space.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

London

Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)

World-class culture, fashion, music, food and history – and a mind-boggling array of bucket list experiences – packed into one extraordinary, incomparable destination. 

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

ZSL London Zoo

London, United Kingdom (UK)[9.1 miles]

The world’s oldest scientific zoo, in London’s Regent’s Park, contains more than 650 species, including lions, tigers, gorillas and sloths.

Best for ages: Any | £35

Kensington Palace

London, United Kingdom (UK)[10.9 miles]

Birthplace of Queen Victoria, this regal 18th-century palace in Hyde Park is now the official residence of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children.

Best for ages: 13+ | £17

Royal Albert Hall

London, United Kingdom (UK)[11.6 miles]

London’s premier venue, this iconic circular Victorian concert hall hosts everything from circus acts to classical music, with perfectly-crafted acoustics.

Best for ages: 13+ | £15 | 1+ hours

British Museum

London, United Kingdom (UK)[11.6 miles]

An awe-inspiring collection of more than seven million artefacts spanning two million years, from prehistory to the present day. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, Elgin Marbles and a granite head of King Rameses II.

Best for ages: 6+ | Free

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

A beautiful view from Hampstead Heath meadow, London
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Hampstead Heath

London, United Kingdom (UK)[6.1 miles]

320 hectares of ancient London parkland, complete with woods, grassy meadow picnic spots, ponds to swim in and, set at one of the highest points in London, some of the best views over the capital.

Best for ages: Any | Free

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Close up of the market welcome sign during the daytime
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Camden Market

London, United Kingdom (UK)[8.9 miles]

Beloved of teens, tourists and tie-dye fans, this rambling collection of markets, selling everything from clothes and crafts to vinyl and vegan food, stretches along Camden Lock and the historic Pickford Stables.

Best for ages: 10+ | Free

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Exterior view of the entrance to the museum on a rainy day
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Museum of Brands

London, United Kingdom (UK)[9.2 miles]

Collector Robert Opie’ vast and fascinating collection of everyday objects representing iconic British brands from the last two centuries, including Victorian ‘wind pills’ for seasickness to World War II ration books. Buy a ticket online here.

Best for ages: 18+ | £9

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