Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre, Dunkeswell, Honiton, Devon
Should you decide to go up to Dunkeswell Airfield when you’re down this way on your large group holiday in Devon, go and have a look round the Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre for a fascinating insight into the air base that was here during World War II and the lives of the men and women who lived there.
High up on the Blackdown Hills, Dunkeswell Airfield was built in 1942-43 and was the only WW2 US naval airbase in Europe, with USAAF and USN forces stationed here before it became a home to RAF Coastal Command. Missions flew from Dunkeswell to defend the country’s supply lines and fight in The Battle of the Atlantic. The archives include over 400 photographs of daily life, of the forces at work and at play; there are short films, dioramas, replica uniforms and plenty of memorabilia. It’s a step back in time for anyone with an interest in military, social or local history.
Allow time to pop into The Aviator Coffee Bar and Restaurant where you can tuck into home cooked food while you watch the light aircraft come and go and parachutes landing.
Open: Good Friday to the last Sunday of October Thursday to Sunday and Bank Holidays from 11.00am-4.00pm
Groups welcome, guided tours by prior arrangement
T: 07778 857722 All information correct at the time of writing