De Havilland Aircraft Museum

About

The De Havilland Aircraft Museum, located in the historic Salisbury Hall in Hertfordshire, celebrates the legacy of the British aviation pioneer de Havilland. Since its opening in 1959, the museum has curated a remarkable collection of aircraft spanning from the iconic Mosquito bomber to the pioneering jet airliners of the 1950s and 60s. Visitors walk through the unique Geoffrey and Amy Johnson hangars, where they can see the Mosquito prototype, the Vampire fighter and the inaugural Comet 1 jetliner, all surrounded by a wealth of ancillary equipment including engines and weaponry. The museum also offers interactive displays on radar, piston and jet engines, and wartime operations, making it an engaging destination for families, aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Beyond the aircraft on display, the museum showcases a dedicated engine collection that features both piston and turbine units, as well as a limited selection of rocket motors, giving visitors insight into the technology behind the planes on display. The refurbished hangars and the original museum hall provide an immersive environment that illustrates the evolution of British aviation from the Second World War through the jet age and into the modern era. With its free entry policy and easy access to the gallery and hall, the De Havilland Aircraft Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, with winter opening on Wednesdays to Sundays, offering visitors a chance to explore the imagination of aviation engineering without spending a pound. Whether you’re a seasoned flight‑enthusiast or a curious traveller, the museum’s accessible exhibitions, educational programmes, and hands‑on displays promise a memorable journey through the history of aviation. Plan your visit during spring or autumn when the crowds are lighter and the weather is ideal for exploring the museum’s extensive collection.

Highlights

• Mosquito Prototype
• Vampire Fighter
• Comet 1
• Geoffrey and Amy Johnson Hangars

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 2 hours