Americans at Duxford

Battle of Britain

Battle of Britain looks at this pivotal moment in Britain’s history as well as considering air defence of the UK during the First World War and Cold War.

Explore the people and machines involved in the Battle of Britain and the Blitz, and learn more about RAF Duxford’s vital role in the air defence of Britain during 1940-1941.

Battle of Britain is located in Duxford’s Hangar 4, which was actually in use during the summer of 1940. You can examine closely the aircraft that RAF Fighter Command used to defend Britain from German air attack.

The elegant, legendary Spitfire and the sturdy, reliable Hurricane are displayed alongside the mementoes and recollections of the brave 'Few' who flew them. Together they poignantly evoke the thrilling and terrifying atmosphere of the battle.

View a full list of aircraft and vehicles at IWM Duxford

Collections in Context

The Supermarine Spitfire
Designed by R J Mitchell, the Supermarine Spitfire, a single-seat fighter aircraft, is arguably one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history...

The Hawker Hurricane
The Hurricane saw action on all fronts during the Second World War and played a pivotal role during the Battle of Britain in the summer of 1940 alongside its contemporary, the Spitfire...

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Related Videos

Historic Duxford: The Battle of Britain
Stephen Woolford, Head of Interpretation and Collections at IWM Duxford, gives an introduction to Duxford's key Battle of Britain sites.

Duxford and the Battle of Britain
An excerpt from Duxford and the Battle of Britain, produced specially for IWM Duxford.