Solent Sky Museum

About Solent Sky Museum

Solent Sky Museum is located in the heart of Southampton, Hampshire, showcasing the rich aviation history of the Solent area. This unique museum features an impressive collection of vintage aircraft and engines, highlighting the region’s significant contribution to aviation development.

The museum’s main attraction is the Supermarine Spitfire, designed and built in Southampton. Visitors can explore various aircraft up close, including the Sandringham Flying Boat and the Supermarine S.6 seaplane. Interactive exhibits and detailed displays provide insights into the local aviation industry’s evolution.

One of the most notable experiences at Solent Sky Museum is the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of a Spitfire, allowing visitors to imagine what it was like to fly this iconic aircraft. The museum also houses a comprehensive archive of photographs, documents, and memorabilia related to aviation history.

Solent Sky Museum offers family-friendly activities, including flight simulators and hands-on exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. The museum regularly hosts special events and temporary exhibitions, focusing on various aspects of aviation history and technology.

Visitor amenities include a small gift shop and limited on-site parking. The museum is wheelchair accessible on the ground floor, with stair access to upper levels. Guided tours are available upon request, providing in-depth information about the exhibits and local aviation history.

Solent Sky Museum

Facilities

  • Suitable for kids
  • Guide Dogs Accepted
  • Onsite Parking

Opening Times

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays (except Bank Holidays)

Ticket Price

Adults £12

Children £8

Family Ticket £25

How long do people typically spend here

1-2 hours

How to get here

Address

Albert Road South,

Southampton,

SO14 3FR

By Car:

From M3: Follow signs for Southampton city center, then follow brown tourist signs for Solent Sky Museum.
From M27: Exit at Junction 5 and follow signs for Southampton city center, then follow brown tourist signs.

By Bus:

Several local bus routes stop near the museum, including the 3, 7, and 18.

By Train:

Southampton Central Station is approximately 1 mile from the museum. Take a taxi or walk (20-25 minutes) along Western Esplanade and Albert Road South.

Best Hotels Nearby

  1. Southampton Harbour Hotel & Spa
  2. Ennio’s Boutique Hotel
  3. Mercure Southampton Centre Dolphin Hotel

Best Restaurants Nearby

  1. The Oxford Brasserie
  2. Ennio’s Restaurant
  3. Bacaro

For the Kids

  • Flight simulators
  • Sit in a Spitfire cockpit
  • Interactive exhibits
  • Hands-on activities
  • Model aircraft displays

Why you should visit

As an aviation enthusiast, I found Solent Sky Museum to be a hidden gem in Southampton. The collection of aircraft is impressive, and the opportunity to sit in a Spitfire cockpit was unforgettable. The museum’s focus on local aviation history provides a unique perspective on the area’s contributions to flight technology. While compact, the exhibits are well-curated and informative, making it an enjoyable visit for both adults and children interested in aviation.