Discovering the World’s Largest Helicopter Museum with Aaron Morgan

Racing driver, Aaron Morgan, has been out and about again for Allied Mobility exploring the world’s largest helicopter museum in Weston-super-Mare.

Smooth Landing

I left the M5 at junction 21 and the brown tourist signs direct you straight to the museum. As I approached my destination I could see the main hangar which has ‘helicopter museum’ written on the side in large letters making it virtually impossible to miss. Car parking is excellent with clearly marked disabled bays and plenty of space for wheelchair accessible vehicles with rear access.

I easily made my way through the main entrance and once inside, the reception desk is just to the left hand side. There are turnstiles to enter through into the museum shop but the gap was more than wide enough for me and also for bigger mobility scooters too. The cost of entry was £6.00 and included my carer.

I don’t think that I would have wanted to fly some of the early models!

A Flying Start

The first room that you enter details helicopter flight through the years and takes you from the early days right through to the present. Glass casings containing models from the relevant time period are accompanied by notes which provide further insight.

Once you have passed through this area you will find yourself in the main corridor where you can access the toilets and cafe. The disabled toilet might prove slightly challenging for those with larger powerchairs to negotiate. However, there is a newer, more spacious facility in the main hangar.

At the end of the corridor you enter another large room which has more model helicopters on display. There is also a video running which features interesting information on the history of helicopters and I would recommend taking some time to watch this.

Lots to See and Do

The exhibits in the main hangar are fascinating and range from the first helicopters to the Queen’s own. I don’t think that I would have wanted to fly some of the early models! In addition, there are also a number of army and coastguard aircraft to view and it is only when you are up close do you get a true perspective of the sheer size of them. Unfortunately, I was unable to access those which have open doors but for others who can climb a couple of steps this would be good fun.

There is also an interactive area where you can find out more about the technology behind helicopter flight. The aerodynamics, materials, engines, cockpits and flying controls are all explained. The replica pilot’s chair was a bit high for me to transfer into from my wheelchair but there is also a cockpit dashboard, which gives you a chance to see the numerous dials that need to be monitored.

Flooring inside the main hangar is concrete and perfect for wheelchair users with plenty of space to manoeuvre.

Hanging Around

The cafe at the museum can be accessed from the shop, main corridor or via the picnic area and there is a range of snacks available as well as hot and cold beverages. You can dine indoors and should the weather permit you can sit outside where there is also an enclosed play area for children.

The shop is on the left hand side when you first enter the museum and there is a wide range of museum branded souvenirs, toys, helicopter model kits, sweets, DVDs and books available.

Numerous events are held throughout the year including open cockpit days and helicopter flight experiences. The knowledgeable staff were all extremely helpful and on hand should you require any assistance or further information.

I would definitely recommend visiting this incredible venue, there really is something for everyone!