Your Local West Midlands Museum

Your Free Museum in Shropshire & the West Midlands 

Looking for museums or places to visit in the region? RAF Museum Cosford is one of Shropshire’s premier free attractions, offering world-class aviation history right on your doorstep.

Located just off Junction 3 of the M54 in Cosford, we’re perfectly positioned for visitors from Wolverhampton, Telford, Shrewsbury, and across the West Midlands. With over 75 historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and sprawling outdoor spaces, we’re the perfect answer when you’re looking for things to do locally – whether you’re planning ahead or deciding on the day.

Best of all? Entry is completely free, making us one of the most accessible and affordable days out in the region for everyone from aviation enthusiasts to families seeking something different.

A Regional Treasure in Cosford, Shropshire 

When locals need inspiration for activities in the area, they’re often surprised to discover we’re right here in their own backyard. RAF Museum Midlands has been a cornerstone of the Shropshire community since 1979, welcoming visitors from across the West Midlands, Staffordshire, and beyond.

Situated on the historic RAF Cosford airfield, our museum offers a unique blend of national significance and local accessibility. We’re not just a destination for tourists – we’re a valued community resource that residents visit time and again.

What sets us apart: 

A nationally significant collection, locally accessible – Over 75 aircraft spanning a century of aviation, from WWI fighters to Cold War bombers, all housed in original wartime hangars. It’s the kind of world-class collection you’d expect to travel hours for, yet it’s right here in Shropshire.

Genuinely free admission – Unlike many major tourist attractions, we don’t charge for entry. You can explore at your own pace, return as often as you like, and enjoy a full day out without worrying about ticket costs.

Easy to reach from across the region – Whether you’re driving from Birmingham, Wolverhampton, or Telford, we’re conveniently located just minutes from the M54. Train travellers can reach us with a pleasant 10-minute walk from Cosford station. As one of the best West Midlands attractions, we’re accessible to millions.

How to Find Us 

From Wolverhampton (20 minutes): Take the A41 north or M54 eastbound to Junction 3. We’re signposted from the motorway and offer parking onsite. As one of the top things to do near Wolverhampton, we’re an easy drive for a great day out.

From Telford (15 minutes): Head south on the M54, then follow signs to RAF Museum. Clear signage makes us easy to find. Locals searching for attractions near Telford love our convenient location.

From Birmingham (40 minutes): Via the M6 northbound to M54 westbound We’re one of the closest major attractions for a unique regional day out.

From Shrewsbury (30 minutes): A5 eastbound towards Telford, a quick drive perfect for a morning or afternoon visit. 

What You’ll Discover at RAF Museum Cosford 

When you’re looking for places to visit with real substance, our collection doesn’t disappoint. Spanning over a century of aviation innovation, our exhibits tell stories of courage, ingenuity, and technological advancement. We’re consistently rated as one of the best museums in Shropshire and the West Midlands.

Interactive Experiences: 

• Flight simulators where you can pilot historic and modern aircraft 

• Hands-on exhibits exploring the science of flight 

• The chance to sit in a real Spitfire cockpit – a truly unforgettable photo opportunity 

Outdoor Spaces: Let children run free in our aviation-themed playground, explore our outdoor aircraft displays, or enjoy a picnic in our grounds. It’s a proper all-weather venue with plenty to do outside when the sun shines. 

Completely Free Entry – Every Single Day 

When people search for free things to do in the region, they’re often pleasantly surprised that a museum of this scale charges nothing for admission. We’re proud to offer completely free access to our entire collection, making us one of the best free attractions in the West Midlands and Shropshire.

What’s included in free entry: 

• All three hangars and the National Cold War Exhibition 

• Interactive displays and hands-on exhibits 

• Outdoor playground and picnic areas 

• Accessible toilets, baby changing, and seating areas throughout 

• Free admission for carers accompanying disabled visitors 

While entry is free, donations are always welcome and help us continue sharing RAF stories with future generations. 

More Than Just a Day Out 

When you need days out that are genuinely interesting, RAF Museum Cosford delivers.  

Perfect for: 

• Spontaneous weekend plans when you need fresh ideas 

• Regular visits throughout the year (every season offers something different) 

• Rainy day backup (mostly undercover with all-weather facilities) 

• Educational outings that combine learning with genuine excitement 

• Solo visits for aviation enthusiasts who want time to study the collection properly 

Whether you’re based in rural Shropshire, or the outskirts of Birmingham, we’re your accessible regional treasure. No need to trek to London or pay premium attraction prices – world-class aviation history is right here on your doorstep. As one of the top things to do in the West Midlands, we offer unbeatable value and interest.

Stay Connected 

Join our local community online to keep up with events, new exhibitions, and special activities:

• Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content 

• Sign up for our newsletter for regional event updates 

We’re your local museum, here to serve the West Midlands and Shropshire communities. Whether this is your first visit or your fiftieth, you’re always welcome. 

Visit Your Local Museum Today 

RAF Museum Midlands is open daily and ready to welcome you. Whether you’re a first-time visitor discovering what’s on your doorstep or a regular who knows every aircraft by name, there’s always something to explore.