Solent Sky Museum

The Solent Sky Museum in Southampton celebrates the region’s rich aviation legacy—from early seaplanes to Cold War jets. At its heart is the Short Sandringham “Beachcomber” flying boat, housed in a hangar built around it, with climb-in cabin and cockpit access.

Over 20 historic aircraft are on display, including:

• The iconic Supermarine Spitfire F24 PK683, made locally
• Schneider Trophy racer Supermarine S.6A N248
• The world’s only jet‑fighter flying boat, Saunders‑Roe SR.A/1 TG263
• Interactive cockpits: Harrier GR.3 and Swift, both offering sit‑inside experiences
• Plus rare aircraft: Folland Gnat, Avro 504J replica, Sea Vixen, Tiger Moth, Vampire, Skeeter helicopter, SUMPAC human‑powered plane, and more.

AT the time of writing, facilities include a small café (soon featuring the restored Calshot Spit lightship), gift shop, archives, and wheelchair‑accessible layouts. Family‑friendly activities like quizzes and flight simulators engage all ages, and guided tours are available on request.

Housed in a hangar‑style building near Ocean Village (Albert Road South, SO14 3FR), it’s open daily (10 am–5 pm, 12–5 pm on Sundays), with tickets around £12 adults, £8 children.

Photo credit: Alan Wilson