Dunkeswell Heritage Centre

The old airfield at Dunkeswell holds more stories than most museum walls can contain. Built during World War II, this former RAF base has been transformed into a proper working heritage centre where volunteers have painstakingly restored aircraft and documented the men who flew from here. You'll find vintage planes in various states of restoration, alongside exhibits that chart the station's role in the war effort and beyond.

Walking the site feels genuinely atmospheric - there's something about standing where squadrons once prepared for missions that hits differently than reading about it in a museum case. The volunteers are the real draw here. They know their stuff and will talk your ear off if you let them, which frankly is half the appeal. History buffs and aviation enthusiasts will spend hours; families with younger kids might find it a bit specialist unless they're already keen on planes.

It's free to wander the grounds, though donations keep the place running. Allow a couple of hours minimum, longer if you're chatty with the restoration team. The weather matters - there's limited indoor space, so pick a dry day. Dunkeswell sits between Honiton and Cullompton, making it an easy diversion if you're staying in the area. If you're based at Hartridge Springs Spa Glamping nearby, it's worth the short drive. Don't expect polished visitor centre theatrics. This is grassroots heritage work, and that's precisely why it's worth visiting.