Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre

The Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre (CAHC) is a fantastic experience for all in the family to experience the excitement of aviation. The centre celebrates and presents Britain’s aviation heritage from the age when it proudly lead the World.

Set amongst the massive, looming silhouettes of a complex of ex-RAF HAS (Hardened Aircraft Shelter) buildings. They were designated as a forward operating base for the Buccaneer Maritime Strike force. They were later used by various aircraft on exercise such as Typhoons, Jaguars, F16s and finally, in 2008, the last two types to use the HAS site were Harriers and Tornados.

CAHC isn’t just about walking around and looking at these amazing, historic airframes — there are always staff and volunteers about who love nothing better than telling you all about the exhibits. Many have worked or flown in them during their own careers and have all the facts and stories that will make you gasp and laugh.

Looking is good, listening is great, but touching is better! It is their plan to make every aircraft accessible, inside and out, so that you can have a guided tour (of the big ones) or sit in the pilot’s seat of the fighters and imagine what it might be like to hurtle through the heavens at the speed of sound, 10 miles (that’s 15 kilometres) up in the sky.

CAHC puts you straight into the atmosphere of 1950s, 60s and 70s military flying – and then offers you a Cornish cream tea and a chance to buy souvenirs for yourself and your friends.

To make your visit even more memorable you can take to the skies. Experience flying first hand as you take the controls of a Cessna 152, Robin DR-400 or Piper PA28 aircraft. Prices start from just £95 and can be booked in advance or on the day.

Address : Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre, HAS 3, Aerohub 2, St Mawgan, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 4JN