Fantanstic set up these guys have got here, I've not been to an RAF breifing room or stores room, but I really did feel like I was in one; it was all very authentic.
The simulator is excellent with amazing attention to detail made from a real Tornado F3 cockpit, and just outside there is a real one that's in great condition.
Hawarden aerodrome is a bit out of the way, but whether you fly in, or drive in, its totally worth dropping by.
Ethan Jones213 days ago
I visited here with a group of Air Cadets from 1251 (Berwyn) Squadron. We had an absolutely fantastic experience.
On arrival we met with Flt Lt (retired) Stuart Case, a former navigator. He was very accommodating and gave us all a briefing on the Tornado. He showed us the flight gear and survival equipment used by Tornado aircrew. We also had a brief video explaining the history and development of the Tornado.
We later went outside where Stuart gave an in-depth tour of the Tornado. The cadets also got the opportunity to sit in the cockpit.
Finally, the Centre has a working flight simulator which was used by Tornado pilots for training. One of the cadets got the opportunity to go in the simulator and fly a Tornado in Scotland.
It was an incredible day and Stuart could not have done more for us. Absolutely recommend!
Danny Brierley305 days ago
I'm not actually here to review the centre but to add a couple of photos of ZE966 from when it was in storage. The official history is that it was at the Manchester Air and Space Museum storage centre when in reality it was sat in a private warehouse for a number of months alongside the front end of a Vulcan and a Vampire jet. I do have photos of these too.
Mikky kay2 years ago
Most Excellent! Booked a flight simulation for my son, Chris, his birthday present. Stuart, (His enthusiasm is infectious!) took him through realistic preparations, aircraft familiarisation, safety briefing and flight briefing, followed by a sit in the real deal, parked just outside. Then a half hour session in the Flight Simulator, the very one used by the RAF to train the majority of Tornado pilots, NOT a replica! Worth every penny and more, the ideal gift for the "Top Gun" in your life. Also on an historic WW2 airfield, Lancasters, Wellingtons, Mosquitos flew from here, and a popular themed Diner just next door. A great day out!
Scott Wayne2 years ago
Had a superb Experience Day with the team at Tornado Heritage Centre. If you love your jets, this is a place you must visit.
The simulator is excellent with amazing attention to detail made from a real Tornado F3 cockpit, and just outside there is a real one that's in great condition.
Hawarden aerodrome is a bit out of the way, but whether you fly in, or drive in, its totally worth dropping by.
On arrival we met with Flt Lt (retired) Stuart Case, a former navigator. He was very accommodating and gave us all a briefing on the Tornado. He showed us the flight gear and survival equipment used by Tornado aircrew. We also had a brief video explaining the history and development of the Tornado.
We later went outside where Stuart gave an in-depth tour of the Tornado. The cadets also got the opportunity to sit in the cockpit.
Finally, the Centre has a working flight simulator which was used by Tornado pilots for training. One of the cadets got the opportunity to go in the simulator and fly a Tornado in Scotland.
It was an incredible day and Stuart could not have done more for us. Absolutely recommend!