Want to learn more about either World War One or World War Two?
Then you must visit The Imperial War Museum which ranks as one of the best war museums in the world. It is free to enter and see the permanent galleries with a small charge for some of the special exhibitions that are organised from time to time. Get a bit closer to what it was like to fight in 1916 by walking through a recreated trench whilst having a Sopwith Camel biplane swooping overhead.In this gallery alone there are 1300 objects give you a greater impression and understanding of the horrors of this conflict. You can explore key moments of the Second World War in the Turning Points gallery and uncover great stories of bravery such as that of Odette Sansom who worked undercover for the “Special Operations Executive in Nazi occupied France. Every summer numerous family activities are put on which involve hands on activities, actors and story telling.
What else does London have to offer?
How about visiting visit the Churchill War rooms and exploring his top secret underground headquarters.
Have you ever been on a battleship?
Alongside the famous Tower Bridge you are invited to climb aboard HMS Belfast. With all 9 decks of this World War Two battleship open to the public, a great time can be had from taking the helm in the captain’s chair to going 15 feet below sea level in the engine room.
Have you ever seen a Spitfire or been in a Lancaster?
The RAF and Battle of Britain Museum at Hendon should be on the list for those who want to investigate the history of air power from world War One, through the Battle of Britain in World War Two to the fighter planes of the Cold war.
Using the latest VR technology combined with a physical recreation of the interior of a Lancaster bomber you can now be on the famous Dambusters Raid.
Here you will find fun for the whole family in flight simulators which offer thrilling Red Arrows and Eurofighter flights. This museum boasts, “if you have ever wondered what it actually feels to soar amongst the clouds, you can now experience all the thrills and exhilaration by entering the 4D theatre”.An experience that combines 3D computer animation with “dynamic seating” and special environmental effects.
For children aged of 3 -8 specially created backpacks can be loaned free of charge, “to introduce children through play and exploration to the subjects of science, technology, engineering and maths!
Where can I go outside of London to discover more about World War Two?
Linked to the Imperial War Museum in London is its museum in Duxford. Five hangers house a whole range of aircraft from the supersonic Concorde, the iconic Lancaster Bomber, Battle of Britain Hurricane and Spitfire. At least twice a year your experience can be enhanced by attending an airshow at Duxford where historic aircraft take to the air.
See the fastest ever plane
A whole hanger at Duxford is devoted to American air power and includes the only Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird outside of the USA. This plane was capable of cruising over three times the speed of sound. You can walk underneath the massive B52 Bomber and get up close to World War Two planes such as the P51 Mustang.
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