Spitfires, live music, and family fun: RAF Museum celebrates the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain

The RAF Museum Midlands is set to mark the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain with a stirring programme of events, beginning this weekend with the unmistakable roar of Spitfire flypasts.

On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September, visitors will be treated to a breathtaking flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire as it soars over the Museum grounds. The flypast is scheduled for 3.26pm on Saturday and 3.23pm on Sunday (weather permitting), offering a poignant tribute to ‘The Few’ who defended Britain’s skies in 1940.

The celebrations continue the following weekend with two unmissable events. On Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September, the Battle of Britain Proms returns with an evening of stirring live music beneath the stars. Audiences will enjoy three hours of patriotic favourites and show-stopping performances from West End star Kerry Ellis, the Ida Girls, the Lymm Concert Band and the Cosford Military Wives Choir. All hosted by Paul Shuttleworth from BBC Radio Shropshire. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, Union Jack flags, and hampers, or enjoy hot food from a variety of street stalls. With fizz flowing from a champagne fire truck, it will be an evening to remember.

Tickets are on sale now at rafmuseum.org/bobproms, £24 for adults (16+) and £20 concessions (under 16s / 65+). Gates open at 6.30pm, with performances running from 7.00pm–10.00pm.

By day, the Battle of Britain Big Weekend offers a vibrant, family friendly celebration. The weekend will feature live performances of drumming, dance, music, and spoken word, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy a host of activities including paper plane competitions, basketball challenges, badge making, aircraft art workshops, and the chance to step inside a replica Spitfire cockpit. Food and drink stalls will serve up everything from stonebaked pizzas and slow-cooked bento boxes to vegan dishes and a classic British carvery.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission will also be part of the two-day event, delivered in partnership with the Telford and Wrekin Interfaith Council. For more information and tickets, visit rafmuseum.org/midlands. £9 Adult, £6 Concession (under 16s / 65+).