Davidstow Airfield and Cornwall at War Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away on the wild moors of North Cornwall, the Davidstow Airfield and Cornwall at War Museum isn't your typical stuffy gallery. It's a living, breathing piece of history, set on the very ground where RAF crews once scrambled for missions during World War II. The sprawling airfield itself is the main exhibit, a vast and windswept landscape that seems to whisper stories of the past. This unique setting makes the history feel immediate and tangible, connecting you directly to the brave men and women who served here.
Collection Highlights
Inside the Nissen huts, you'll find a remarkably personal collection that goes beyond polished brass and glass cases. There's a fully restored Bristol Beaufighter, its propellers silent but imposing, alongside poignant displays of uniforms, letters, and personal kit that belonged to those stationed here. The museum painstakingly tells the story of Cornwall's entire wartime experience, from the airfield's pivotal role in Coastal Command to the home front, complete with a 1940s kitchen and an evocative Anderson shelter.
Visitor Information
You're free to wander at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps catching a glimpse of modern-day gliders using the historic runway. It’s a wonderfully hands-on experience for all ages—just be sure to check their website for opening times before you go, as they can be seasonal.
Architecture & Building
The museum is housed in original, unpretentious World War II-era buildings, primarily long, curved Nissen huts made of corrugated steel. These simple structures are authentic to the site's history, blending into the rugged landscape rather than trying to dominate it.
