The latest phase of this on-going transformation has recently been funded thanks to nearly £1.8million from National Lottery players.

Phase 2b of the Museum’s RAF Centenary Programme, Historic Hendon, focuses on sharing the historical significance of the Museum’s London site as the London Aerodrome in the early 20th century and later RAF Hendon. Drawing on archive and collection artefacts, the Museum will work with local volunteers to research and develop interpretation and activities that reference the site’s unique airfield heritage. Thanks to National Lottery players, the landscape at the heart of the site will be transformed to create a ‘sense of place’ linked to that heritage.

The project will also deliver inspiring outdoor play and picnic spaces, creating a new village green for both the Museum’s local communities and other visitors.

This latest project builds on the previous work at the Museum’s London site, also supported by HLF with a grant of £4.9m.

Sharing stories

[quote=Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF]“The foundation of the Royal Air Force is an enduring and important legacy of the First World War and it is thanks to National Lottery players that the HLF can support the RAF Museum’s plans for this centenary.”[/quote]

Maggie Appleton, CEO of the Royal Air Force Museum, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to HLF for the support they have given us. Our collection is all the more significant because the RAF Museum London stands on a historic site – one which is woven into the narrative of British Aviation.

"It’s therefore wonderful that we have this opportunity to restore, recreate and share the stories of our fabulous heritage.”

Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF said: “The foundation of the Royal Air Force is an enduring and important legacy of the First World War and it is thanks to National Lottery players that the HLF can support the RAF Museum’s plans for this centenary. This latest project will help tell the story of the historic London site, and continue the transformation of the experience of visitors to this excellent museum”.   

To find out more about the RAF Museum’s plans to celebrate this centenary, visit the RAF Museum website, or follow them on Twitter.