National Museum of Flight at East Fortune Airfield
Explore Scotland’s rich aviation heritage at East Fortune Airfield, home to historic aircraft and the iconic Concorde experience.
Scotland’s National Museum of Flight is housed at East Fortune Airfield, a remarkably preserved World War II airfield near North Berwick. It showcases a vast collection of historic aircraft and aviation artifacts, including Scotland’s only Concorde, set within original wartime buildings and hangars. Visitors can explore interactive galleries, historic aircraft, and the outdoor airfield, immersing themselves in over a century of aviation history.
A brief summary to National Museum Of Flight
- East Fortune Airfield, B1347, North Berwick, EH39 5LF, GB
- +443001236789
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least 3 hours to fully explore the extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits.
- Don’t miss boarding the Concorde for a unique supersonic flight experience.
- Visit the outdoor airfield displays and enjoy the family-friendly assault course.
- Check the museum’s schedule for special talks and events about wartime history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the museum covers a large historic airfield with some walking between hangars.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, take a train to Drem (approximately 25 minutes). From Drem station, a local bus or taxi can reach East Fortune Airfield in about 10 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and bus services are limited, so check schedules in advance. Total travel time ranges from 40 to 60 minutes. Train fares typically range from £5 to £10 one way.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh city center to East Fortune Airfield takes around 30 to 40 minutes via the A1 road. Parking is available on-site with accessible spaces. Note that the airfield is a large area with a 10mph speed limit, and some walking between hangars is required. There is no parking fee, but traffic can be busy during peak visitor times.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh to the museum takes approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if traveling with family or groups, with fares generally ranging from £25 to £40 one way.
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Walking
The museum site is extensive, so walking within the airfield requires comfortable footwear and moderate fitness. Visitors with mobility issues may prefer to drive or use on-site transport options to navigate between hangars.
National Museum Of Flight location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about National Museum Of Flight
Historic Origins and Wartime Legacy
The National Museum of Flight is situated on the grounds of East Fortune Airfield, a site steeped in aviation history dating back to before the First World War. Originally commissioned as a Royal Naval Air Station in 1916, East Fortune played a pivotal role in coastal patrols and airship operations during the war. Notably, it was the base for the R.34 airship, which completed the first east-west transatlantic crossing in 1919, a pioneering feat in aviation history. The airfield continued its military significance through the Second World War, serving as an operational training base for night fighter crews and enduring secret air assaults, with many wartime buildings and shelters still preserved today.Transformation into a Museum of Aviation Heritage
Opened to the public in 1975, the museum occupies the original wartime hangars and buildings, which are protected as a scheduled monument. The museum’s collections date back to 1909, including early aircraft models and engines, and have grown to encompass a wide range of historic aircraft, engines, and avionics. The site retains much of its original character, with no permanent structures added beyond the historic fabric, allowing visitors to experience aviation history in an authentic setting. The museum’s conservation efforts ensure the preservation of both aircraft and the airfield’s historic features.Exhibits and Aircraft Highlights
The museum offers extensive exhibits across multiple hangars, including the Military and Civil Aviation Hangars. A highlight is the 'Concorde Experience' in Hangar 4, where visitors can board Scotland’s only Concorde, exploring the supersonic airliner’s history and technology. Other iconic aircraft on display include a Supermarine Spitfire, a former Red Arrows BAE Systems Hawk, the world’s first passenger jet—the de Havilland Comet—and the Avro Vulcan bomber. Interactive galleries bring the science of flight to life, allowing visitors to engage with hands-on exhibits and understand the complexities of aviation.Outdoor Airfield and Visitor Experience
The museum’s location on the expansive East Fortune Airfield provides a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can explore aircraft displayed on the airfield, including the Vulcan and Comet, and enjoy family-friendly activities such as an outdoor assault course and adventure playground. The airfield’s historic runways and buildings create an atmospheric backdrop, connecting visitors with the site’s military and aviation heritage. Accessibility is supported with parking and mobility options to navigate the large grounds comfortably.Stories and Anecdotes from Aviation History
Beyond the machines, the museum shares personal stories and wartime experiences of those who served at East Fortune. One charming anecdote is the presence of a kitten on the R.34’s historic transatlantic flight, highlighting the human side of aviation history. The museum also reveals lesser-known wartime events, such as secret air assaults on the airfield during World War II, enriching the narrative of Scotland’s aviation past.Engagement and Learning Opportunities
Visitors can deepen their understanding through audio guides, talks, and exhibitions that cover the technological advances and cultural impact of flight. The museum’s family-friendly Fantastic Flight gallery offers over 25 interactive exhibits, making it an engaging destination for all ages. Facilities include a café, shop, picnic areas, and accessible amenities, creating a welcoming environment for diverse visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Byrecleugh Burn
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Monkton House
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Newton Tower
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Dalkeith Country Park
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Pittenweem Harbour
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Experience the enchanting Pittenweem Harbour, a picturesque port full of history, stunning coastal views, and delicious seafood delights.
Cove Harbour
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Crichton Castle
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National Mining Museum Scotland
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Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa
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Unmissable attractions to see
Barnes Castle
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Waughton Castle
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Hailes Castle
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Preston Mill
4.3 km
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Chesters Hill Fort
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Amisfield Walled Garden
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A hidden 18th-century walled garden near Haddington, now a vibrant community space of orchards, borders, and wildflower meadows, free to explore.
Garleton Castle
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Explore the evocative 16th-century ruins of Garleton Castle, a historic courtyard fortress nestled near the scenic Garleton Hills in East Lothian.
Fenton Barns Farm Shop & Cafe
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Hopetoun Monument
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Nungate Bridge
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North Berwick Law
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Dirleton Castle & Gardens
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Lodge Grounds
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Westgate - Coastal Gallery, Gifts & Cafe
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North Berwick
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Essential places to dine
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Linton Hotel & Steak House
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The Golf Tavern
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The Waterside Bistro in Haddington
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Eastern Eye
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The grain
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The Victoria Inn / La Terraza
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Brasserie Bar & Grill @ Maitlandfield Hotel
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Tyneside Tavern and Mazzoli Italian Kitchen
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The Castle Inn
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The Puffin
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The Grange Restaurant & Steakhouse
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Zitto Italian Winebar & Trattoria
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Cucina Amore
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The Rocketeer Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nungate Minimarket
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The Malt Kiln..
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Gibsons Of Haddington
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The Original Factory Shop (Haddington)
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Rosehall Stores
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Experience local charm at Rosehall Stores, a cozy supermarket in Haddington offering fresh produce and unique Scottish delicacies.
Madame Butterfly
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Whynot?
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SO & CO Accessories
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Great Escape
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NØRDEN
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Rock & Bird
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Time & Tide
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Haddington Retail Park
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Old Smiddy gift shop
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Secret Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Mercat
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The Plough Tavern
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The Ship Inn
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The Auld Hoose
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The Bear & Bull
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Thorntree Inn
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Whispers Lounge Bar
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The New Prestoungrange Gothenburg
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The David MacBeth Moir - JD Wetherspoon
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Ship Inn
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Old Colliery
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The Dean Tavern
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Laird & Dog Inn
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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Cabaret Voltaire
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La Belle Angele
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Sneaky Pete's
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Legends
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The Bongo Club
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The Liquid Room
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Why Not Nightclub
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Shanghai Nightclub
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El Barrio Latino
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Republic Bar Club
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Garibaldi's
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Opal Lounge
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
