We’ve been busy over the winter months making several changes to our layout, adding new exhibits and enhancing existing ones to give visitors an even more informative and enjoyable experience. Let’s take a closer look at some of the updates you can expect to see when you visit us this season
Home Front Display
One of the major changes we’ve made is the addition of a larger ‘Home Front’ display in our newly refurbished sleeping shelter building. This exhibit showcases what life was like for civilians during the war and highlights the sacrifices made on the home front. The exhibit also features a Horsa glider themed entrance way, giving visitors a taste of what it was like to experience a glider landing during the war.
RAF Display
In the former workshop, we’ve created a new and much larger RAF display. This exhibit covers the life of RAF pilots as Prisoners of War, inspired by the popular movie ‘The Great Escape.’ Visitors can learn about the courage and determination of pilots who were captured by the enemy, as well as view displays covering the role of Army Co-Operation and the Airfield’s Commanding Officer.
USAAF Room
We’ve also updated displays in the USAAF room, paying tribute to the cameraman who took the famous ‘Bottisham Four’ photograph during World War II. Visitors can learn about the story behind this iconic image, as well as the fascinating life of the man who took it, including later work with the legendary Marilyn Monroe. We also have a new Mustang drop-tank display entitled ‘The Battle for Range’ which explains the hugely important contribution fighter pilots based at Bottisham made during long-range bomber escort missions.
Children’s Room
We’ve created a brand-new dedicated children’s room that features a sit-in Mustang cockpit, a dress-up area, and 1940s style games. This interactive exhibit is designed to engage younger visitors and give them a hands-on experience of what it was like to fly a plane during the war.
Flying Tractor Café
To provide visitors with a more comfortable experience, we’ve added additional vintage seating areas in our Flying Tractor Café. This area is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a cup of tea or coffee while you take in the exhibits.
Reception and Gift Shop
Finally, we’ve created a new Reception and Gift shop, providing visitors with a more spacious and improved arrival and shopping experience. Our entrance for visitors has also changed to the front of the museum buildings, making it easier for visitors to find us.
We’re excited about these changes and hope you’ll enjoy them too. We believe they will make your visit to the museum even more informative and enjoyable. So why not plan a visit and experience these exciting new exhibits for yourself? We look forward to welcoming you!
Excellent, enthusiastic staff, good displays.