Bentwaters Cold War Museum
Contents
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Key Facts
| Location: | RAF Bentwaters, Suffolk |
| SatNav: | IP12 2TW |
| Country: | United Kingdom |
| Date Opened: | 27 May 2007 |
| Aircraft Exhibits: | 2 |
What’s Here
This new museum, dedicated to preserving the aviation heritage of the Cold War Era, and specifically the history and units that served at the ‘twin’ bases of Bentwaters and Woodbridge, opened to the public on 27 May 2007. The main exhibition area is located in the former Wing Operations Centre – a hardened command bunker which has been completely refurbished for visitors to a very high standard. The history of the locally based 81st TFW features prominently in the museum displays, as does the 527th Aggressor Squadron which used to fly from here. Visitors can see the War Operations Room used to direct the operations of USAF aircraft during Operation El Dorado Canyon in 1986 and the First Gulf War in 1991. Coach tours of the huge base are planned for 2008.
Directions
Within the Wing Operations Centre at RAF Bentwaters. Take the A12 eastwards from Ipswich until you reach Woodbridge, turn right onto the A1152. At Rendlesham you will come across what was RAF Woodbridge. Follow the signs for Bentwaters Park from the A1152 at Rendlesham. (RAF Bentwaters is part of the same base complex). See this location on Microsoft Live Search Maps
Visiting
Opening Hours:
At least two Sundays each month April to October, 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. See official site for exact dates.
Admission:
See official site for details.
Amenities:
Toilets, Parking, only limited access for the disabled. A small cafe should be available in 2008.
List of Aircraft Exhibits
| Displayed I.D. | Aircraft Type | Real Identity | Condition | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WH453 | Gloster Meteor D.16 | WH453 | Complete | Displayed |
| E.18-2 | Piper Navajo | E.18-2 | Complete | Displayed |
Notes: BAC Strikemaster 80 1125, reported elsewhere as being with the museum, is not part of the collection and is stored in another hangar. BAC Canberra B(I)6 (cockpit) WT319 and Hawker Hunter F.1 (cockpit) WT684 have passed to a private owner offsite.
More Information
The Bentwaters Cold War Museum, Building 143, Bentwaters Parks, Rendlesham, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 2TW. Bentwaters Aviation Society, Bentwaters Cold War Museum
22 March 2010 6:22 pm | Last Updated 5 August 2010 8:11 pm | 
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