Aviation

Known as the ‘Home of the Royal Air Force’, Lincolnshire has a vast aviation heritage – and nowhere more so than North Kesteven.

Airfields were first developed during World War I, with the RAF’s first bases and training stations set up here, and in World War II Lincolnshire became the most important home of Bomber Command.

North Kesteven is still home to three operational bases while former airfields, museums and memorials are testament to the bravery of those who served here.

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum and the International Bomber Command Centre are at the heart of the story, with more to be found throughout the North Kesteven Airfield Trail. Download a guide map of the trail at www.heartoflincs.com

RAF Coningsby, nestled half way between Sleaford and Horncastle, is where you will find the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre. The hangar tours let you walk around the Lancaster Bomber, Dakota, Spitfire and Hurricane.

“Lincolnshire has a rich heritage of aviation as well as active bases”

In nearby East Kirkby there is the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, which is home to ‘Just Jane’, a beautiful example of the Lancaster Bomber that has such a close association with Lincolnshire.

Newark Air Museum in nearby Winthorpe is also a must for aviation enthusiasts, with a diverse collection of aircraft from all over the world. 76 aircraft are on display either on the open grounds of the museum or in one of the four hangars, including the iconic Avro Vulcan – a true symbol of Lincolnshire’s aviation heritage.