RAF Manston History Museum

The history of the airfield from 1916 and it's use by the RAF and civil airlines.

Manston started its Aviation days as a Royal Naval Station in 1916, with a base at Westgate Bay for seaplanes. The early airfield was on the area now occupied by the passenger terminal.

By 1917 Manston airfield had grown to include four underground hangars, its own railway line to Birchington, a power station to generate electricity, barracks for 3,000 men and even an indoor swimming pool.

After WW1, training of airmen in airframe maintenance and engine repairs was taught in the School of Technical Training.

1940 and WW2 brought the Battle of Britain. Barnes Wallis arrived in 1943 to test his bouncing bomb at nearby Reculver, before the Dam busters carried out their famous raid. Roland Beaumont arrived with the Typhoon which came to be the most successful ground attack aircraft in WW2.

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Ramsgate Travel Guide

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Bloc Hotel London Gatwick Airport

￥211,120

per person

Apr 18 - Apr 21

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to London (LGW)

8.8/10 Excellent! (4,449 reviews)

Manage expectations. The photos online are misleading they are taken from impossible positions to disguise the fact that the “room” is little more than a pod they also give the impression of windows; yes there is a footnote saying the room is without a window but it is easily missed. The hot drinks room was disappointing!

Reviewed on Feb 7, 2026

Hilton London Gatwick Airport

￥229,612

per person

Mar 20 - Mar 24

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to London (LGW)

9/10 Wonderful! (3,714 reviews)

Clean, quiet and convenient …..

Reviewed on Feb 5, 2026

Elite Venue Selection Felbridge - Gatwick

￥263,355

per person

Apr 30 - May 5

found 8 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (HND) to London (LGW)

8.6/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)

The hotel was beautiful, only needed the room for a couple of hours after traveling and before heading to the airport, spa facilities were absolutely perfect, would come back in a heartbeat should the situation arise! Very friendly staff, 1000/10

Reviewed on Feb 4, 2026

Popular places to visit

RAF Manston Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum

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Manston Golf Centre

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Margate Cemetery

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Hugin

You can learn about the history of Cliffsend with a trip to Hugin. Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve, a lovely green space in Cliffsend. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in the area.

Best Lodging Options Near RAF Manston History Museum

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.