City of Norwich Aviation Museum

The moment you walk into this museum, you're confronted with real warbirds - actual Second World War aircraft that saw active service. The Norwich Aviation Museum sits on the former RAF airfield at Horsham St Faith, just outside the city, and it's genuinely impressive in scope. You're looking at everything from a Avro Lancaster to a Supermarine Spitfire, plus an enormous collection of engines, uniforms, and personal accounts from the people who flew them.

It's unmissable for aircraft enthusiasts and anyone with a soft spot for military history. Children tend to either love it unconditionally or get restless after an hour - depends entirely on the kid. The indoor exhibits are well-organised but can feel a bit static, so the outdoor airfield walk with the actual planes is where this place shines. Allow two to three hours minimum if you're properly interested.

The volunteer guides are excellent - genuinely knowledgeable people who flew some of these machines themselves. Entry is affordable and the location makes it easy to combine with a broader Norfolk holiday. It sits conveniently between Norwich and the Broads, so you could easily tack it onto a weekend at Norfolk Broads Haven or Moat Island Glamping without much detour. Fair warning: it's not climate-controlled, so winter visits can be bracing. Go in late spring or early autumn for comfort.