Army Flying Museum

The Army Flying Museum sits at Middle Wallop, an easy and scenic half-hour drive from Romsey town centre. It charts more than a century of British Army aviation in two large purpose-built hangars beside the active Army Air Corps airfield.

The collection covers the main branches of Army flying: the balloon sections of the Royal Engineers from 1878, the Royal Flying Corps of the First World War, the Air Observation Post squadrons and Glider Pilot Regiment of the Second World War, and the modern Army Air Corps.

More than 35 fixed-wing and rotary aircraft are on display, ranging from early biplanes and wartime gliders to later helicopters. One of the standout exhibits is an Apache AH Mk.1, the only example on permanent public display in the UK. Displays are arranged in a clear chronological order that helps visitors follow the story without needing prior knowledge.

The museum works well as a day out for mixed ages. Alongside the aircraft there are interactive displays, a reconstructed 1940s house, indoor and outdoor play areas, and simple trails that keep younger visitors occupied.

Older relatives often appreciate the clearer chronological layout and the quieter corners that allow time with individual exhibits and personal stories.

The site also runs a regular programme of events, including family activities in school holidays and occasional talks or special openings.

The Apache Café overlooks the airfield and serves hot food and drinks through most of the day. Tickets include free return visits for twelve months, which makes a second trip straightforward if one visit does not cover everything. Free parking is available on site.

For visitors staying in or around Romsey who want a change from the usual countryside or town walks, the museum offers a self-contained indoor-outdoor day focused on genuine wartime and later military aircraft, with enough space and variety to suit different energy levels and interests.