HOME Airspeed Horaa DH.98 Mosquito DH.110 Sea Vixen DH.112 Sea Venom DH106 Comet Bae Whisper Jet DH.114 Heron DH.104 Dove England

de Havilland Aircraft Museum

de Havilland Aircraft Museum

Salisbury Hall,  London Colney,  Hertfordshire,   AL2 1BU,  United Kingdom

The de Havilland Aircraft Museum is the oldest aviation museum in the UK, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the legacy of the de Havilland Aircraft Company. Located in London Colney, Hertfordshire, the museum is home to a unique collection of historic aircraft, including three de Havilland Mosquitos, the world’s first jet airliner (Comet 1a), and many other iconic planes. The museum offers visitors a chance to explore the evolution of British aviation, from early piston engines to jet and rocket technology, and features interactive exhibits, film displays, and access to aircraft interiors.

Key Features and Exhibits

Three de Havilland Mosquito Aircraft‚  Comet 1a (World’s First Jet Airliner)‚  de Havilland Vampire (Third Operational Jet Aircraft)‚  Tiger Moth Trainer‚  Airspeed Horsa Glider‚  de Havilland Rapide (Ongoing Restoration)‚  Interactive Flight Simulators‚  Aviation Technology Displays (Radar, Engines, Missiles)‚  Wartime Operations and Weapons Exhibits‚  Interior Access to Comet, Trident, and DH 146‚  Extensive Collection of Aero Engines‚  Gift Shop with Models, Books, and Merchandise<‚  Café with Aircraft-Themed Seating‚ 
View of location ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.

Airspeed Horsa Glider

The image depicts the interior of an aircraft cockpit with a clear view of the steering wheel and control panel. The cockpit windows reveal a view of another aircraft outside, suggesting the setting is likely an aviation museum or an airshow. The seating appears to be upholstered in fabric, and there is a tan-colored bag or cushion in the foreground. The lighting suggests it is daytime, with sunlight streaming through the windows.
Airspeed Horsa Glider ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an aircraft fuselage under construction or maintenance. The structure is largely composed of wooden frames and metal components, with visible ribs and support beams. There is a bicycle placed inside the fuselage, likely for scale or transportation purposes. The setting appears to be an industrial or workshop environment, indicated by the unfinished walls and exposed materials.
Airspeed Horsa Glider ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows the interior of an aircraft cockpit. The cockpit features a central control panel with various gauges and dials, a control stick, and a yellow control knob. There are two large windows at the front, providing a view outside. The cockpit appears to be part of a vintage or historical aircraft, possibly on display in a museum.
Airspeed Horsa Glider ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.

DH146/BAe.146 Whisper Jet

The image depicts an aircraft on display with its entrance staircase extended. The aircraft's door is open, and a sign indicates the entrance point. In front of the aircraft, there is an exposed jet engine mounted on a stand, likely for educational or exhibition purposes. The scene is set outdoors on a grassy area under a clear blue sky.
DH146/BAe.146 Whisper Jet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the cockpit of an aircraft. It features a complex array of instruments, controls, and displays used for flying the plane. The pilot seats are visible with blue covers, and there is a teddy bear dressed as a pilot placed on the dashboard, visible through the windshield. The cockpit is well-lit, showing a clear view of the runway outside.
DH146/BAe.146 Whisper Jet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the overhead control panel of an aircraft cockpit. This panel contains numerous switches, buttons, and indicators used for managing various aircraft systems, including engine controls, lights, and other essential functions. The layout is complex and organized into different sections for specific controls and monitoring. It is designed to provide pilots with easy access to critical systems during flight.
DH146/BAe.146 Whisper Jet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an airplane cabin. The seats are arranged in rows with red and blue upholstery. A person with curly hair is seen walking down the aisle, carrying a backpack and looking at their phone. The cabin appears to be mostly empty, with overhead compartments and windows visible along the sides.
 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an airplane cabin. The seats are arranged in a typical configuration with a central aisle. Each seat has a red headrest cover and a tray table at the back. The overhead compartments are visible, and the cabin appears to be empty with no passengers present.
DH146/BAe.146 Whisper Jet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.

The image depicts an indoor aviation museum exhibit featuring several historical aircraft. The central focus is a light blue aircraft with the registration G-ABLM. In the background, there is a black and white photograph of a vintage biplane. The exhibit includes various other aircraft and aviation-related displays, creating an educational and visually engaging environment.
Cierva C24 Autogyro ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a vintage biplane displayed in an aviation museum. The aircraft is suspended on supports, with its engine and propeller exposed. The plane has a white body with red accents and the registration code G-ANRX is visible on the side. The setting includes informational displays and other exhibits in the background, suggesting an educational environment focused on aviation history.
DH82A Tiger Moth ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an indoor museum exhibit featuring several vintage aircraft. The primary focus is on a fragile, old biplane with a visible cockpit and engine. Other aircraft are visible in the background, including a blue and white plane. Informational displays and barriers are set up around the exhibit area.
DH82B Queen Bee ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a vintage aircraft displayed in a museum setting. The aircraft is a single-engine, single-wing plane with a propeller at the front. It is mounted on supports and surrounded by informational displays and barriers. The plane has a metallic body with green and white markings. The setting appears to be indoors with good lighting and additional exhibits in the background.
DH87B Hornet Moth ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.

The image depicts the cockpit of a vintage aircraft, showcasing its control panel and instrumentation. The aircraft has a green exterior and a transparent canopy. The cockpit is equipped with various gauges, dials, and a control stick. The setting appears to be indoors, likely in a museum or exhibition space.
DH88 Comet Racer (Replica) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a green vintage aircraft displayed in an indoor museum setting. The aircraft is positioned on a stand with barriers around it. In the background, there is an exhibit titled 'The Principles of Flight' featuring informational displays and models. The lighting is bright, highlighting the details of the aircraft and the exhibit area.
DH88 Comet Racer (Replica) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the cockpit of a vintage military aircraft. The interior features an array of analog dials and gauges on the instrument panel, a control stick with a leather cover, and a throttle control. The aircraft's exterior is painted in a green color, with a large white number '4' visible on the side. The cockpit appears to be part of a museum exhibit, showcasing historical aviation equipment.
DH88 Comet Racer (Replica) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.

DH98 Mosquito

The image depicts an indoor aviation museum with several aircraft on display. The central focus is a brightly colored aircraft with a yellow nose and red body, featuring a prominent propeller. Other aircraft and exhibits are visible in the background, with informational stands and barriers set up around the displays. The setting is well-lit with a high ceiling and industrial lighting.
DH98 Mosquito (Prototype) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a vintage military aircraft displayed in a museum setting. The aircraft is primarily yellow with a red nose and has a large propeller. It is housed in a spacious hangar with other exhibits visible in the background. Informational displays and barriers are set up around the aircraft for visitors.
DH98 Mosquito (Prototype) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the front section of an aircraft, specifically focusing on the transparent nose cone. The nose cone is framed with a yellow ring and provides a view into the interior of the aircraft, revealing parts of the cockpit and instrumentation. The reflective surface of the cone shows some distorted reflections of the surroundings, including overhead lighting and structural elements.
DH98 Mosquito (Prototype) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a close-up view of an aircraft engine with a propeller. The engine has a reddish-brown body with six exhaust pipes visible. The propeller has a dark, possibly black or dark blue, finish. The aircraft appears to be stationary, possibly in a museum or hangar setting.
DH98 Mosquito (Prototype) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a close-up view of a mesh-covered vent or exhaust pipe, likely part of an engine or machinery. The mesh is slightly discolored, possibly due to heat or age, and the surrounding metal is painted in a combination of yellow and reddish-brown colors. The vent appears to be designed to allow airflow while preventing debris from entering.
DH98 Mosquito (Prototype) ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a vintage military aircraft housed in a hangar. The aircraft has the markings 'UPO' and a roundel symbol on its fuselage, along with the tail number 'TA122'. The plane appears to be undergoing maintenance or restoration, as indicated by the surrounding equipment and scaffolding.
DH98 Mosquito FB Mk.VI ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows the cockpit of an aircraft with a clear canopy and metal frame. The aircraft is likely housed in a hangar or storage facility, as indicated by the background structure. The cockpit appears to be of an older model, possibly a vintage or historical aircraft. The lighting suggests it is daytime, with natural light illuminating the scene.
DH98 Mosquito B.MK.35 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a close-up view of an aircraft, focusing on the exhaust pipes of the engine. The aircraft appears to be an older model, possibly from the early to mid-20th century, given the design and materials used. The exhaust pipes are prominently displayed, indicating a powerful engine setup. The surrounding structure and materials suggest a robust and durable construction typical of vintage aircraft.
DH98 Mosquito B.MK.35 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a close-up view of the underside of an aircraft, focusing on the exhaust pipe and a mesh-covered opening. The aircraft's metal surface shows signs of wear and some paint chipping. The background is blurred, indicating the aircraft is likely in a hangar or maintenance area. The overall scene suggests an environment of aircraft maintenance or inspection.
DH98 Mosquito B.MK.35 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a close-up view of an aircraft, likely a vintage military plane, housed in a hangar. The aircraft's nose, engine, and propellers are prominently visible. The plane's body is painted in a matte grey color, with some yellow markings. The setting appears to be a museum or an aviation exhibition.
DH98 Mosquito B.MK.35 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an indoor setting, likely a museum or hangar, featuring a vintage military aircraft. The aircraft is prominently displayed with its wingspan extending across the space. The fuselage bears the markings 'GOUP' and a circular insignia. Several chairs are arranged in front of the aircraft, suggesting an area for presentations or briefings. The setting includes various informational displays and equipment related to the aircraft.
DH98 Mosquito FB.MK.VI ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows an aircraft inside a hangar. The aircraft is elevated on supports, with its nose pointed towards the viewer. The hangar has a corrugated metal exterior with blue doors, and the interior is dimly lit with overhead lights. There are ladders and other equipment around the aircraft, indicating maintenance or restoration work.
DH98 Mosquito FB.MK.VI ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows the front part of an aircraft, specifically focusing on the propeller and engine area. The aircraft is housed indoors, likely in a hangar, with natural light filtering through the windows in the background. The propeller has a polished, metallic finish, and the engine cowling appears to be made of metal with some signs of wear and rivets visible. The setting suggests that the aircraft might be on display or undergoing maintenance.
DH98 Mosquito FB.MK.VI ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows the front part of an aircraft, specifically focusing on the propeller and engine area. The aircraft is housed indoors, likely in a hangar, with natural light filtering through the windows in the background. The propeller has a polished, metallic finish, and the engine cowling appears to be made of metal with some signs of wear and rivets visible. The setting suggests that the aircraft might be on display or undergoing maintenance.
View of location ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an indoor aviation museum or hangar. Several aircraft are displayed, including a prominent silver jet with a red cross and the number J-1008. There are also seating arrangements and various equipment on display. The area is well-lit with a high, industrial-style ceiling.
DH100 Vampire FB.6 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an indoor aviation museum or hangar. The central focus is a vintage military aircraft with Swiss markings and the identification number J-1008. The aircraft is surrounded by various other planes and aviation equipment, including engines and other aircraft parts. There are also seating arrangements in front of the main aircraft, likely for educational or tour purposes.
DH100 Vampire FB.6 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a close-up view of a military aircraft inside a hangar or museum. The aircraft features a cockpit with a transparent canopy, and a red ladder is positioned next to it, likely for access. The aircraft's nose has various markings and text, and there is an ejection seat visible through the canopy. The surrounding area includes other aircraft and industrial equipment, indicating a display or maintenance setting.
DH100 Vampire FB.6 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an indoor aviation museum exhibit. The focal point is a vintage biplane, specifically a DH 82A Tiger Moth, displayed prominently in the center. Surrounding the aircraft are informational displays and seating arrangements, likely for educational purposes. Other aircraft and exhibits can be seen in the background, indicating a comprehensive collection of aviation history.
Vintage Aircraft/span> ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a small aircraft on display outdoors, with a person standing on a ladder near the open door. The aircraft is painted with colorful stripes and has the text 'G-AREA' visible on its side. The scene appears to be part of an aviation exhibit or airshow, with several cars parked in the background and a grassy field in the foreground. The weather is clear and sunny.
DH104 Dove MK.8 G-AREA ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an aircraft cockpit. It features a complex array of instruments and controls, including various gauges, dials, and switches on the dashboard. There are two leather seats, one of which is prominently visible in the foreground. The cockpit has a vintage appearance, suggesting it might be from an older aircraft model. The view outside shows a bright day with some greenery and vehicles visible through the windshield.
DH104 Dove MK.8 G-AREA ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an airplane cabin. The seats are arranged in rows, with a mix of worn-out and well-maintained upholstery. The left side shows a damaged, brown seat, while the right side features blue patterned seats in better condition. The cabin includes overhead compartments and a narrow aisle leading towards the back of the plane.
DH106 Comet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an aircraft, specifically focusing on the galley area. It features metallic storage compartments and kitchen equipment, including an oven. There is a fire extinguisher visible, and a sign indicating a restricted area. The space appears well-organized and designed for food preparation and storage during flights.
DH106 Comet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an airplane cabin. The seats in the foreground are upholstered with a vibrant, patterned fabric in shades of red and purple. A red blanket is draped over one of the seats, and the seats themselves have red armrests. In the background, rows of blue seats are visible, arranged in a typical airplane seating configuration.
DH106 Comet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image shows a close-up view of an aircraft's metallic body, featuring a distinctive blue and white emblem. The emblem includes a stylized design with elements resembling a horse's head, a wheel, and abstract shapes. The aircraft's polished metal surface reflects light, adding a sense of depth to the image. The setting appears to be indoors, possibly in a hangar or museum
DH106 Comet ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an outdoor scene featuring a vintage military aircraft on display. The aircraft is mounted on a platform with stairs leading to its cockpit, and a British flag is flying nearby. Two cars are parked in front of the aircraft, and there are a few people in the vicinity. The setting appears to be a museum or an airshow, with a clear blue sky and greenery in the background.
DH112 Sea Venom FAW.22 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a military aircraft undergoing restoration. The aircraft is marked with the number 127 and is surrounded by a protective fence and staircase for access. It is situated outdoors, with visible greenery and a clear sky in the background. The sign nearby indicates that the aircraft is under restoration.
DH112 Sea Venom FAW.22 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an outdoor scene featuring a vintage military aircraft on display. The aircraft is mounted on a platform with stairs leading to its cockpit, and a British flag is flying nearby. Two cars are parked in front of the aircraft, and there are a few people in the vicinity. The setting appears to be a museum or an airshow, with a clear blue sky and greenery in the background.
DH112 Sea Venom FAW.22 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a military aircraft inside a hangar. The aircraft has the number 438 painted on its side and features a prominent nose cone. There is a red ladder positioned next to the open cockpit, and various instructions and warnings are visible on the aircraft's body. The aircraft appears to be a vintage or historical model, likely used by the Navy.
DH112 Sea Venom FAW.22 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an aircraft exhibit in a museum or hangar. A jet aircraft with its engine exposed is prominently displayed, accompanied by informational plaques. The aircraft is marked with the number 38 and has a visible cockpit and intricate engine components. A red ladder is positioned next to the aircraft, and another aircraft is visible in the background. The exhibit appears to be educational, focusing on the engineering and history of the aircraft.
DH112 Sea Venom FAW.22 ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts an old, stationary airplane displayed on a grassy field. The aircraft appears to be a vintage model with two propellers, and it is situated in an open area with a cloudy sky overhead. The plane is surrounded by a fence and there is some equipment or structures visible in the background. The scene suggests it might be part of an outdoor museum or a display area for historical aircraft.
DH114 Heron MK.2D G-AOTI ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts a vintage Rolls-Royce airplane with the registration G-AOTI, displayed on a grassy field. The aircraft is painted in a turquoise and white color scheme and appears to be part of a static exhibition. The setting is outdoors with a cloudy sky and some trees in the background.
DH114 Heron MK.2D G-AOTI ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
The image depicts the interior of an aircraft cockpit, featuring a complex array of instruments and controls. The cockpit has two seats, one of which is visible, and is equipped with numerous gauges, dials, and switches on the dashboard. The windows are framed with orange covers, and the control yokes are centrally positioned. The overall setting suggests it is an older model aircraft, possibly used for training or historical display.
Cockpit of DH114 Heron MK.2D G-AOTI ‐ photo by ,
©www.mgaylard.co.uk.
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de Havilland Aircraft Museum: Where British Aviation History Takes Flight

The de Havilland Aircraft Museum is located in London Colney, Hertfordshire (just off Junction 22 of the M25), and is Britain’s oldest aviation museum, dedicated to preserving the legacy of the de Havilland Aircraft Company. Its unique collection includes three de Havilland Mosquito aircraft (including the original WWII prototype), the fuselage of the world’s first jet airliner (Comet 1), the Sea Vixen, and a range of engines, missiles, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore inside several aircraft, learn about British aviation innovation, and enjoy a café and gift shop

A Shrine to Innovation and Ingenuity

Nestled in the Hertfordshire countryside near London Colney, the de Havilland Aircraft Museum is a tribute to one of Britain’s greatest aviation pioneers. Founded on the site where Geoffrey de Havilland and his team designed and built some of the most iconic aircraft of the 20th century, the museum is the largest collection in the UK dedicated to a single manufacturer. Its heart is the original prototype workshop where the legendary de Havilland Mosquito—the "Wooden Wonder"—was born. This versatile, fast, and deadly aircraft, built from plywood and powered by twin Merlin engines, became one of the most celebrated planes of World War II, excelling as a bomber, fighter, and reconnaissance plane. The museum’s collection has grown to include three Mosquitos, the world’s first jet airliner (the Comet), and a host of other de Havilland classics, from the Tiger Moth to the Vampire—the third operational jet fighter in the world

From the Mosquito to the Jet Age

The museum’s hangars and exhibits tell the story of de Havilland’s revolutionary spirit. Visitors can stand beside the prototype Mosquito (W4050), the only surviving original WWII prototype in the world, and marvel at its sleek, wooden fuselage—a testament to the ingenuity of wartime Britain. Nearby, the fuselage of a Comet 1, the world’s first jet airliner, offers a glimpse into the dawn of commercial aviation and the tragic, triumphant story of its development. Other highlights include the Sea Vixen, a Cold War-era naval fighter, and the Chipmunk, the RAF’s post-war trainer, each a chapter in de Havilland’s legacy of pushing the boundaries of flight. The museum also showcases engines, missiles, and radar systems, along with personal stories from the engineers and pilots who made these machines soar

From the Mosquito to the Jet Age

The museum’s hangars and exhibits tell the story of de Havilland’s revolutionary spirit. Visitors can stand beside the prototype Mosquito (W4050), the only surviving original WWII prototype in the world, and marvel at its sleek, wooden fuselage—a testament to the ingenuity of wartime Britain. Nearby, the fuselage of a Comet 1, the world’s first jet airliner, offers a glimpse into the dawn of commercial aviation and the tragic, triumphant story of its development. Other highlights include the Sea Vixen, a Cold War-era naval fighter, and the Chipmunk, the RAF’s post-war trainer, each a chapter in de Havilland’s legacy of pushing the boundaries of flight. The museum also showcases engines, missiles, and radar systems, along with personal stories from the engineers and pilots who made these machines soar

A Living Legacy

The de Havilland Aircraft Museum is more than a collection of planes—it’s a celebration of British innovation. From the biplanes of the 1920s to the jet age of the 1950s, the museum traces the evolution of flight through the lens of one company’s daring vision. Its café, shop, and regular events (including veterans’ talks and airshows) ensure that the spirit of de Havilland lives on. For anyone fascinated by aviation, engineering, or the sheer audacity of human invention, this museum is a must-visit—a place where the past roars, soars, and inspires

References

www.dehavillandmuseum.co.uk" ,  en.wikipedia.org ,  www.tripadvisor.co.uk ,  www.steamheritage.co.uk ,  www.enjoystalbans.com , Text generated by Mistral AI
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