If you’re looking for a free family day out that’s packed with history, interactive exhibits, and plenty to keep kids (and adults!) entertained, RAF Cosford is a brilliant choice. I’ve been several times now with Arlo and his cousins, and it never fails to impress. With such a huge collection of aircraft, vehicles, and hands-on activities, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a history buff, a parent looking for a fun day out, or just someone who loves cool planes.
Why Visit RAF Cosford?
RAF Cosford is home to some incredible aircraft, including the world’s oldest Spitfire, Cold War jets, helicopters, and even a collection of military vehicles and iconic cars. The best part? Most of the exhibits are undercover, so it’s a great place to visit on a rainy day.
One of the things I love about Cosford is that it caters to all ages. When I visited with Arlo and his cousins, the mix of hands-on activities, history, and open space meant everyone found something they loved.
Highlights Not to Miss
• Massive aircraft hangars filled with planes from different eras
• Sit in a cockpit and imagine life as a pilot
• Hands-on exhibits that explain how flight works
• Tanks, military vehicles, and even iconic cars
• Outdoor play area and picnic spot for when the kids need a run around
It’s one of those places where you can spend hours exploring without realising where the time has gone.
Half-Term Fun: STEM Week (15-23 February 2025)
If you’re visiting during February half-term, RAF Cosford is running STEM Week, which is full of fun, interactive activities to get kids thinking about science, technology, engineering, and maths.
What’s On for STEM Week?
Planetarium Experience (from £5 per person)
Step inside the Galileo Dome Planetarium and experience space like never before. There are three different shows to choose from:
• Astronaut George (30 mins) – A fun and gentle introduction to space, perfect for younger kids.
• General Space Show (45 mins) – A great all-rounder for kids aged six and up.
• We Are Aliens! (60 mins) – A deeper dive into space exploration for those aged 10+.
The planetarium is small, so booking in advance is a good idea if you don’t want to miss out.
Build & Race a LEGO Dragster
A huge hit with Arlo and his cousins—kids (and grown-ups!) can design and build their own LEGO dragster, then race it using the power of physics (and a balloon).
Volatile History of Chemistry Show
A live science show full of explosive experiments and cool chemistry demonstrations. If your kids love a bit of drama, this one is a must-see.
Flight Simulators & Quadcopters
Test out flight simulators and quadcopters, giving you a hands-on experience of what it’s like to fly.
Museum-Wide Search: Professor Percy’s Hidden Lab (£3 per booklet, ages 5+)
A brilliant way to keep kids engaged while exploring the museum. Follow the clues, solve puzzles, and track down Professor Percy’s secret laboratory before his experiments get out of control.
Facilities & Accessibility
RAF Cosford is well set up for families, with:
• A café and gift shop in the visitor centre
• Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities
• A covered picnic area if you bring your own food
• On-site parking (charges apply £7.50 on the day / £6.50 advance online)
There’s also a playground just outside the museum, which is a great place to let the kids burn off some energy before heading home.
Top Tips for Visiting RAF Cosford with Kids
• Let them explore – The interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make this a great place for kids to learn while having fun.
• Mix it up – There’s a lot to see, so take breaks. The playground and picnic area are great for breaking up the visit.
• Plan ahead for STEM Week – If you’re visiting in half-term, pre-book the planetarium and grab an activity trail when you arrive.
• Take your time – There’s no rush! The museum is huge, and there’s always something new to discover.
Plan Your Visit
• Location: RAF Museum Midlands, Cosford, Shropshire
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM daily
• Entry Fee: Free (some activities, like the planetarium, have a charge)
• Parking: Available on-site (charges apply)
Is RAF Cosford Worth a Visit?
Absolutely. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have been before, there’s always something new to see and do. It’s a great day out for families, aviation enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an interesting place to explore.
And with free entry, it’s a budget-friendly option too. For more cheap days out then you can check out some of our blog guides.
If you’re heading there for STEM Week, I’d definitely recommend booking the planetarium in advance
