Honouring the Heritage, Preserving the Past
We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to all visitors to the Rougham Control Tower Aviation Museum, a small but friendly volunteer-run museum dedicated to preserving the memories and history of the American airmen and women who served in the 94th Bomb Group of the USAAF 8th Air Force during World War II. The airfield was historically known as RAF Bury St Edmunds and can be found to the north of Rougham village, nestled between what is now the A14 trunk road (formerly the A45).
The tower is currently closed for the 2023 season, but we will reopen from Sunday the 31st of March 2024, until the middle of October. Should you wish to visit during the closed season, this will be possible by appointment only. Please contact the tower for further information and keep checking back for dates. You can also check out our Facebook page for opening times and all the latest news.
We are a child and dog-friendly museum, but please keep them under control and clean up after them. We kindly request that visitors do not attend if they have any symptoms of Covid19.
About Rougham Control Tower
Rougham Control Tower is a registered charity with the aim of preserving the history of the American airmen and women who served in the 94th Bomb Group of the USAAF 8th Air Force during World War II. Based at RAF Bury St Edmunds, the airfield was one of many similar bases dotting the Norfolk countryside and beyond.
Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the lives of the airmen and women who served at Rougham between 1943-45. We have new displays and extensive historical information on those who served here.
The Tower
The tower is a remarkable example of wartime architecture, with exhibits that tell the story of the airfield during World War II. Visitors can learn about the daily routines of the airmen and women who served here and the dangerous missions they undertook.
Planes
The museum has a number of exhibits related to the planes used during World War II. Visitors can see replicas of the B-17 Flying Fortress, the P-51 Mustang and the B-24 Liberator, among others.
Today
The museum is open every Sunday, and we welcome visitors from across the globe. We are proud to be part of the Bury St Edmunds community and work closely with other local organizations, such as the Rougham Tower Association, the Bury St Edmunds Amateur Radio Society and the Haverhill Aviation Society.
Rougham Stories
The museum is always looking to collect new stories, artifacts and information about the airmen and women who served at Rougham. If you have any information or artifacts related to RAF Bury St Edmunds or the 94th Bomb Group, please get in touch.
Donations
The museum relies on the generosity of its visitors to continue its work. If you would like to make a donation, please scan the code on your smartphone or simply click the QR code to make a donation. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Get Involved
The museum is always looking for new volunteers to help with our work. If you are interested in joining our team of volunteers, please get in touch. We would be delighted to hear from you.
General Impression
The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics praising the museum's interesting and informative exhibits, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and well-maintained facilities.
Potential Hazard
One reviewer, Lorna Kelly, warns visitors to be cautious when approaching the museum, as the map may lead them to a nearby private property where the owner has been known to be hostile. They advise turning back before encountering the property owner, who may threaten to call the police or take other actions.
Cleanliness and Maintenance
Christine Marley is the only reviewer to mention a criticism, suggesting that the toilets could benefit from a deeper clean.
Exhibits and Collections
Reviewers consistently praise the museum's collections, with many citing specific exhibits as being particularly informative and moving. Several mention the authenticity of the exhibits and the thought-provoking nature of the museum.
Staff and Volunteers
Throughout the reviews, visitors express their gratitude for the friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic staff and volunteers. These individuals are commended for their dedication to preserving local history and sharing their knowledge with visitors.
Atmosphere and Overall Experience
Many reviewers comment on the welcoming atmosphere of the museum, with several mentioning the sense of stepping back in time to explore the exhibits. The tea room is also praised, and several reviewers mention that the museum is a hidden gem worth visiting.
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