Our family recently had the pleasure of visiting the Filton Aerospace Museum, a must-see destination for anyone with a fascination for aviation and engineering. Located in Filton, just outside Bristol, this museum offers a captivating journey through the history of flight, with a particular focus on the iconic Concorde. As aviation enthusiasts, we were thrilled to explore the exhibits, learn about the development of some of the most ground-breaking aircraft, and see the Concorde up close.
A Walk Through History
From the moment we entered the museum, we were immersed in the rich history of aerospace development. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of aviation technology. Our daughter was particularly intrigued by the early flying machines and the stories of the pioneers who dared to dream of taking to the skies.
Vintage Cars and Early Innovations
In addition to aircraft, the museum features a fascinating collection of vintage cars. These beautifully preserved vehicles highlight the technological advancements of their time and the interconnected history of automotive and aerospace engineering. It was interesting to see how innovations in one field influenced the other, shaping the modern world as we know it. The classic cars, with their elegant designs and historical significance, were a hit with our entire family.
The History of Concorde
One of the main attractions of the Filton Aerospace Museum is its extensive exhibit on the Concorde. This section of the museum delves into the history of this remarkable aircraft, from its conception and development to its eventual retirement. We learned about the collaboration between British and French engineers and the challenges they overcame to create the world’s first supersonic passenger jet.
The museum’s interactive displays and informative videos provided a detailed overview of the technological advancements and engineering feats that made Concorde possible. Our daughter enjoyed the hands-on exhibits that explained the principles of flight and the science behind supersonic travel in a fun and engaging way.
Seeing the Concorde in Real Life
The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly seeing the Concorde in real life. The museum houses the last Concorde ever built, Alpha Foxtrot, which also made the final Concorde flight in 2003. As we approached the aircraft, we were struck by its sleek, aerodynamic design and the sense of history it embodies.
Going Inside the Concorde
The opportunity to step inside the Concorde was a truly unforgettable experience. As we boarded the aircraft, we were transported back to an era of luxury and innovation. The narrow cabin and rows of leather seats gave us a glimpse of what it was like to travel at twice the speed of sound. Our daughter was amazed by the cockpit, with its myriad of dials, switches, and controls. We could almost imagine the thrill of the pilots who flew this incredible machine across the Atlantic in just a few hours.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Filton Aerospace Museum was a memorable and educational experience for our family. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of aviation, marvel at vintage cars, and learn about the iconic Concorde. The highlight, of course, was seeing the Concorde up close and stepping inside this marvel of engineering.
If you’re in the Bristol area, we highly recommend a visit to the Filton Aerospace Museum. It’s a perfect outing for families, offering something for everyone, from aviation enthusiasts to history buffs. The exhibits are engaging and informative, providing a fascinating look at the innovations that have shaped the world of flight. And don’t miss the chance to see the Concorde, a true icon of aviation history.
