Things have changed a lot since my first visit to the old site of RAF Hendon about two and a half years ago. Just a five minute walk from Colindale tube station, the facilities have been upgraded and there is a lot more on site for families – computer simulations, indoor and outdoor play parks, a Spitfire tour and a 4D theatre. A lot of this is obviously for the better but some of the old charm of the place has, in my opinion, been sacrificed in the relentless tide of modernity. It’s still a fantastic day out, though.
I was always mad about aeroplanes when I was young, and the chance to see so many from different eras in one place is stunning. There’s everything from triplanes from the Great War to a Predator drone.
Here are some pictures to give you a flavour of what’s on offer.
One whole hangar is devoted to the Great War and the birth of military aviation.
In between hangars, you can find plenty to entertain the children. Older ones will like the interactive displays and computer simulations that are available.
The main fighter aircraft from World War II are on display
There are also a couple more World War II aircraft that I used to have Airfix kits of when I was young.
More modern aircraft sit alongside their ancestors.
All in all, there’s loads to see. It would be great to spend a bit more time wandering around and actually reading some of the stuff that goes with the exhibits. When you’ve got the kids, it’s enough to be able to see some of these marvels of design up close. I really wasn’t expecting much the first time I went, but I was blown away by the amount of aircraft on display. They don’t lose their appeal the second time, either.
Verdict: Well worth a day out!