The Trenchard Museum, at RAF Halton, collects and displays items which relate to the history of this 105-year-old military establishment.
The museum is named in honour of Marshal of the Royal Air Force Viscount Trenchard, who is regarded as the Founding Father of the Royal Air Force, who also launched the Aircraft Apprentice scheme which brought worldwide recognition to RAF Halton.
It was opened by his grandson on the 26 June 1999. Since then its collection has grown dramatically to include 3 complete aircraft; 2 cockpits; 9 aero-engines and a range of uniforms, tools, work-pieces, armament, models and memorabilia in displays which illustrate the life, training and notable events in Halton’s history.
This was enhanced further when Viscount Trenchard returned on the 26th June 2014, to open the James McCudden Flight Heritage Centre. This is named after the man who became Britain’s top scoring fighter ace in WW I; who came to Halton in 1913 as a recently recruited engine mechanic with No 3 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps during the annual Army Manoeuvres. His example epitomises the station’s ethos. Here visitors can learn about the fundamentals of flight, seeing videos on the history of flight, aero-engines, a wind tunnel, aircraft and navigation instruments, and a Chipmunk cockpit with a modern flight simulator to match. Additionally there are 3 working Link Trainers which were used to train pilots in instrument flying. Also on view is the museum’s workshop and what will become a full size replica of the Mayfly. This small biplane was designed and built by staff and apprentices here at Halton in 1926.
Initially funded by the RAF Halton Apprentice Association, the museum has had generous support from: the RAF Charitable Trust, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Rolls Royce
Visits are by arrangement through the website (Tuesdays preferred) Children must be accompanied. There is no admission charge (although donations are always welcome) and car parking is free.