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Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

Step back in time at Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, a living memorial to WWII Bomber Command with rare aircraft and immersive wartime exhibits.

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The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre in East Kirkby is a living memorial dedicated to the men of Bomber Command who served during World War II. It features the iconic Avro Lancaster bomber 'Just Jane', an authentic WWII control tower, a wartime chapel, and immersive exhibits including the Home Front and Escape Museum. Visitors can explore historic aircraft, vehicles, and memorabilia that bring the era vividly to life.

A brief summary to Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

  • East Kirkby, Spilsby, PE23 4DE, GB
  • +441790763207
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Book Lancaster bomber taxi rides well in advance as they are very popular and fill up months ahead.
  • Visit during summer months to catch the Lancaster performing taxi runs, usually once a week.
  • Allow at least half a day to fully explore the extensive exhibits and outdoor displays.
  • Dogs are welcome on site except in the café area, so bring your furry friends along.
  • Check the centre’s calendar for special events like air shows and reenactments to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Spilsby town centre takes about 15-20 minutes via local roads. Ample free parking is available on site. Note that rural roads may be narrow and signage limited.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Spilsby to East Kirkby with a journey time of approximately 25-35 minutes. Services run several times daily Tuesday to Saturday but are limited on weekends and do not operate on Sundays or Mondays.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from nearby towns such as Spilsby or Skegness can reach the centre in 15-30 minutes depending on location. Booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and event days.

Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

A Living Tribute to Bomber Command

The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre stands as a poignant memorial to the 55,500 men of Bomber Command who lost their lives during World War II. Situated on the original site of RAF East Kirkby, the centre preserves and recreates the atmosphere of a wartime airfield, offering visitors a deeply moving connection to history. Central to the site is the Avro Lancaster bomber NX611, affectionately known as 'Just Jane', one of the rarest surviving Lancasters, painstakingly restored to taxi along the remaining runway.

Immersive Historical Exhibits

The museum complex includes a range of authentic wartime buildings and exhibitions. The original Control Tower has been restored to its 1940s appearance, providing insight into the operations of the airfield. Visitors can explore the Escape Museum, which tells stories of wartime evasion and survival, and the Home Front exhibition, which illustrates civilian life during the war. The multi-denominational chapel offers a quiet place for reflection, honoring those who served.

Authentic Vehicles and Wartime Atmosphere

Beyond aircraft, the centre houses a unique collection of WWII RAF vehicles, including the Ford WOT1 Crew Bus—the only known surviving example. The site also features a recreated NAAFI café where guests can experience wartime refreshments in a nostalgic setting. Throughout the year, special events such as air shows, reenactments, and firework displays enhance the visitor experience, bringing history to life with sights and sounds.

Engaging Experiences and Tours

The centre offers guided tours that delve into the stories behind the exhibits and the people who lived and worked at the airfield. For a truly unique experience, visitors can book Lancaster bomber taxi rides, feeling the vibrations and hearing the roar of the engines as 'Just Jane' moves along the runway. These rides are highly popular and require advance booking.

Visitor Facilities and Accessibility

Open Tuesday to Saturday year-round (closed Sundays and Mondays except for special events), the centre provides ample parking, accessible facilities, a café, and a gift shop. The site is family-friendly and suitable for children aged seven and above, making it an educational and inspiring destination for all ages. Dogs are welcome on site except in the café area.

Preserving Heritage for Future Generations

The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre is a community-driven project dedicated to preserving the legacy of WWII aviation and the sacrifices of those who served. Through its extensive collections, immersive exhibits, and engaging events, it offers a powerful educational experience that honors history while inspiring visitors to remember and reflect.

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