The Spitfire Visitor Centre at Blackpool Airport offers a unique opportunity to learn about one of the most iconic aircraft of the Second World War. With detailed exhibitions, restoration projects and educational displays, the centre showcases the history of the Supermarine Spitfire and its role in defending Britain during the war.
The Spitfire holds a significant place in British history, often symbolising the resilience and determination of the country during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Designed by RJ Mitchell, the aircraft was fast, agile and highly effective in air combat, helping to give the Royal Air Force (RAF) a crucial edge against the Luftwaffe. More than just a machine, the Spitfire became a national symbol of hope and strength during one of Britain’s most challenging periods.
Blackpool itself has strong connections to the Spitfire and the war effort. During the Second World War, Blackpool Airport was a key training ground for RAF pilots. Hangar 42, where the Spitfire Visitor Centre is located, was built in 1939 and used to house aircraft undergoing maintenance and repair. Today, the centre stands as a tribute to the men and women who contributed to the war effort both in the air and on the ground.
![The Submarine Spitfire is a versatile aircraft that played an important role during the Second World War. (Photo: Airwolfhound [CC BY-SA 2.0])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/spitfire.jpg)
What to see at the Spitfire Visitor Centre
The centre houses a collection of restored and replica aircraft, including five Spitfire replicas, a Hawker Hurricane MKI and the Messerschmidt bf109e.
One of the key exhibits at the centre is the UK’s only full-size Spitfire flight simulator, where you can sit inside a replica cockpit and get a feel for what it was like to pilot a Spitfire during the Second World War. This interactive display allows visitors to see the cockpit controls and instruments that RAF pilots relied on during combat. Educational displays provide further information about the history of the aircraft, the Battle of Britain and the pilots who flew the Spitfires. The flight simulator is not included in your entry fee and has an additional charge of £140 per hour.
The centre also features exhibits on the role of Blackpool during the war, including the training of RAF pilots and the maintenance of aircraft at Blackpool Airport. You can learn about the people who worked behind the scenes to keep the Spitfires in the air, from engineers to ground crew, and how they played a vital part in the war effort. There are also artefacts and memorabilia on display, providing a deeper understanding of life during the war, both for those in service and civilians.
Visiting the Spitfire Visitor Centre
The Spitfire Visitor Centre is located in Hangar 42 at Blackpool Airport, just a short distance from the town centre. The centre is around an eight-minute walk from Squires Gate railway station and parking is available on site.
The centre is open to the public on selected days from March to November, usually Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Allow 2–3 hours for your visit.
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