Located on the site of the former RAF Usworth/Sunderland Airport, between Washington and Sunderland, the North East Land, Sea and Air Museums (NELSAM), is an entirely volunteer-run transport museum.
Why Visit The North East Land, Sea and Air Museum?
The North East Land, Sea and Air Museum has the largest aviation collection between Yorkshire and Scotland. There is a wide collection of aero engines and over 30 aircraft. In addition to this, there is also a Military Vehicle Museum with a collection of WW2 and post-war vehicles.
The North East Land, Sea and Air Museum also has a large collection of other exhibits, such as weaponry and fire appliances. Special exhibitions cover the WW2 Blitz and 607 County of Durham Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force formed at RAF Usworth.
North East Aircraft Museum
The North East Aircraft Museum offers the North of England’s premier collection of Aviation History and the largest Aviation collection between Yorkshire and Scotland. The museum has over thirty aircraft on display in various phases of restoration. In addition to this, there are also numerous aero engines and aviation-related material. The exhibits range from the mighty Vulcan Bomber to the Flying Flea. In addition to this, there is also have a number of displays reflecting aviation history across the North East of England. If you check the website prior to your visit you may get the opportunity to climb aboard the Vulcan Bomber and also a Trident Airliner.
Military Vehicle Museum
The Military Vehicle Museum hosts a collection of World War II and Postwar vehicles. The Museum was originally opened in 1983 when members of the North East Military Vehicle Club took a lease on the former Science and Engineering Museum building in Exhibition Park.
The museum’s first major exhibit was a number of searchlights from the Tyne Electrical Engineers.
The collection includes the Saracen and Ferret Armoured car. There are a number of weapons on display, with examples including the Mobat Anti Tank Gun and Bofors Anti-Aircraft Gun. Amongst the vehicles on display are an iconic Jeep, British Tilly and the post-war Austin Champ.
Additional Displays at the North East Land, Sea and Air Museums
A recent addition to the museum’s portfolio is a collection of fire engines. The vehicles range from 1935 to the 1960s and include a Dennis F12 specially built for Middlesbrough Fire Service. Guests can get an insight into wartime with a recreation of a wartime street.
Haunted Location
The museum site is the subject of significant paranormal interest. One of the ghosts is rumoured to throw nuts at the museum volunteers if they happen to upset him. ‘Ghost Watch’ evenings are held at the North East Land, Sea and Air Museums regularly, check the official website for details.
Travelling to North East Land, Sea and Air Museum
If travelling by car, the museum is located just off the A19 alongside the Nissan Car Plant. Follow the brown tourist signs for the Aircraft Museum.
Travelling by Train
The nearest major railway station is Newcastle Central, which is approximately 10 miles from the attraction. Search for your train tickets using Raileasy.
Nearby Accommodation
There are some lovely self-catering cottages available from Snaptrip. Find hotel accommodation at Booking.com or Travelodge are always a good option for good quality, family-friendly budget hotel accommodation.
For the best discounts and savings, view our Travel and Accommodation Offers.
Attractions Near Me – Featured Offers
Attractions Near Me Offers
View our Hot Special Offers Page for great deals and discounts on your Days Out. Also, like the Attractions Near Me Facebook Page to be amongst the first to know about the best discount offers and promotions for tourist attractions across the UK.
If you are looking for attractions outside the UK then visit our sister site Attractions Near Me Worldwide.
