RAF Museum to mark 100 years of Royal Air Force with nostalgic weekend

The '100 Years of the RAF Festival' on April 1, and April 2, will see re-enactors, living historians, interpreters and a variety of entertainers bring the museum to life with authentic experiences for visitors.

Founded on April 1, 1918, the centenary year provides a unique opportunity to commemorate the world's first and most famous independent Air Force and the extraordinary success, achievement and sacrifice of the RAF.

A walk-through history, exploring the 100 years of the Royal Air Force, vintage vehicles and children's activities will be nestled among the historical, pioneering aircraft on display.

Visitors will have chance to meet serving personnel from the RAF today and hear about their roles, marvel at some of the earliest technologies in flying machines, take aim and fire with a have-a-go anti-aircraft area and watch Rolls-Royce Merlin MK500 and Bristol Hercules MK216 demonstrations.

You can also dress up in RAF attire and and grab some props from the museum's handling collection and take photos as a memento of your day.

A new display which celebrates the first 100 years of the RAF will also be open to visitors in time for the festival weekend – highlighting the principle roles of the RAF, attack, defence, support and prepare. The display also incorporates a snapshot timeline and artefacts spanning 100 years including uniforms, equipment, tools, personal possessions and commemorative items. In addition, a collection of life size silhouettes will be positioned around the museum site, sharing the personal stories of personnel throughout the years, spanning a variety of roles within the service.

The '100 Years of the RAF Festival' will run between 10am and 5pm. Free festival maps will be on hand to guide visitors around the site.

The museum will also be operating a free shuttle bus service from Cosford train station.

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