I visited the museum recently and I really liked it. I like WWII and RAF related places and this is one of these places. A lovely volunteer provided me with details of the place initially. I also found fascinating a short film about Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding. The cafe is also very cute and the garden impressive (I didn’t have the time to walk around).

Most people appreciate the role of Bletchley Park in helping to bring Victory during WW2, but the role played by RAF Fighter Command, under the leadership of Sir Hugh Dowding at this place cannot be overestimated. Without the system of ground control developed by Dowding to process all the information received by radar stations and observers, and then convert onto map of Britain in the Operations room and dispatch our Fighter aircraft to intercept, then the Battle of Britain could have been lost. Had that happened Hitler planned to invade Britain. Great exhibition here, the Video set in Dowdings Office sets the scene for this exhibition and is well worth watching. Learn about what life was like as a pilot waiting on the airfield for that call which took them into action within minutes. Many testimonials, photographs and items from that period. An exhibition of photographs from that period is shown downstairs and has been digitally remastered as full colour photos. The Caffè and Terrace with it's Parasolled tables is a great place to have lunch, overlooking the Italian Garden which you can walk round. If you want to know how we won the "Battle of Britain" this is the place to come.

This is a relatively small but we'll maintained museum about its role during WW2, but there is a good amount of interesting information that is presented clearly and engagingly. The staff are very friendly, helpful and enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge of the place. Like many museums in this day and age you'll need to book your timed ticket online ahead. It'll be checked at the gate (private homes surround the site itself) and once you've entered the museum itself. There is also a pleasant Italian style garden to wander around should the weather lend itself to outdoor endeavours.

Old priory and museum with a lot of WW2 history. The staff were friendly and welcoming. Interestingly the grounds are mostly private residences and the museum is in the main building along with private flats. The museum has lots of interesting info about the house and architecture, as well as WW2 history. It played a major role in the Battle of Britain. Outside, the gardens are beautiful. The bunker is unfortunately filled in now, but there are some photos and info on the exterior structure, which is still visible.

This is an excellent museum. It really does tell the story of why the Battle of Britain was won in the air. Not just by Aircraft & pilots although they were great but how Dowding improved UK integrated air defence. The film in his office is brilliant.

We’ve lived in Stanmore for thirty years and grew up looking through the fence at Bentley priory mansion so visiting it was great. The building is magnificent with ornate wooden staircases and spectacular stained glass windows. The staff were very friendly and welcoming and gave us an information sheets and map to help us find our way around. Our five year old enjoyed learning about the role of the spitfires and hurricanes aircraft. The museum is very interactive with vintage telephones to listen to conversations of times gone by. The ballroom has a small cockpit plane for the kids to explore complete with helmet and jacket. We loved learning about the role Bentley priory played during the war. The video we watched was very informative and interactive. The grounds look amazing, we look forward to exploring them in the warmer months. We enjoyed a hot cup of tea in the beautiful cafe which over looks the gardens. I would recommend buying the yearly membership if you’re planning on more than one visit. Great day out and very educational.

Apart from now being part of a gated community this place is a stark reminder of how close this country came to disaster. On September 15th 1940 Winston Churchill paid a visit to fighter command HQ and realised that there were no reserves, that Polish, Czech,Free French, Irish and Caribbean, et al squadrons were all engaged in the defence of Britain. This engendered the "So much was owed by so many to so few" speech. The site was featured in The Battle of Britain film. Visit and imagine the vista at night, with He 111's dropping bombs across the Vista.

Surprisingly good and entertaining. The museum is smaller compared to others but it's interactive and the grounds are a treat. Cafe is well priced and welcoming. Ideal for summertime.

Very welcoming greeting. Beautiful building, really well laid out. As much information as wanted from very knowledgeable guides. It's great for anyone interested in how the second world war was conducted. Grounds are lovely if slightly in need of watering. Cafe is worth a visit. Ladies are friendly and helpful. View gorgeous.

I visited with my family on a Saturday afternoon. The museum was pristine, it is the cleanest and well developed museum I have been to recently, and I've been to a lot of museums. I was very impressed by every member of staff, they were very polite and welcoming from the moment we stepped in the door. Each member of staff were very knolegable about the history. The museum was very engaging for children and adults. I loved the film at the start. Thank you for a great day.

Extremely well presented museum using all the latest tech to tell an interesting and relevant story. The coffee shop does a good cake but still can't produce an espresso or a cappuccino which is a bit odd in this day and age.

Visited here as a way to fill a rainy afternoon and really enjoyed it more than we thought we would. The museum is well maintained and has lots of interesting artifacts relating to the Battle of Britain. It really made what happened during this time seem very real. The best part was the volunteer Russell. He was so knowledgeable and took his time to talk us through the exhibit and really bought the history to life. He made our visit!

Fantastic.

Fabulous museum for those interested in the Royal Airforce. Made all the more interesting as my wife's father who served in the RAF the whole of his working life was stationed here 40 years ago. Set in wonderful gardens. The building has regal history going back to Victoria's reign

Beautiful building and gardens. The exhibits were well presented with video and audio guides available. It the personal and knowledgeable approach of the employees/volunteers was the show stopper - had chats with multiple individuals who were all passionate about the topic of WW2 and engaging in their conversations. Highly recommended

Wow what a wonderful experience. Not to be missed. Dripping in history - my late husband received his gulf war medal at Bentley priory as we were stationed at Stanmore park. Very moving and emotional experience returning today after nearly 30 years . Retraced with our son who is now 29 the experience his late father and I had that day. Amazing history never to be forgotten. Bruce the guide is amazing. His knowledge and humour bring the history alive. Such an interesting man with a wealth of knowledge I could of listened to him for hours. We learnt so much today not only in the history of the Battle of Britain and fighter command but the history of the house. Such a wonderful experience, the coffee shop and Victoria sponge cake amazing. The staff were all extremely welcoming and couldn’t do enough. A little gem not too be missed 8.00 entrance for adults I would pay double at least for the wonderful day we have had… DEFINITELY NOT TO BE MISSED. Thank you to all the staff for making our visit a memorable one

Wonderful hidden gem. Beautiful buildings. Wonderful knowledgeable staff and loads of World War history thrown in. Dickie was quietly spoken but enthusiastic! RAF heritage as well and a lovely spitfire outside too! Why wouldn't you!!

Fabulous place, plenty of volunteer attendants, full of extra advice and information. Very friendly and helpful. Good guide of the place free of charge. The setting is beautiful and has a marvellous cafe and garden. The rotunda area is outstanding, with photographs drawings and magnificent paintings. Medals and information plaques and poetry also . You also have the option of an audio guide with I'd recommend- it's in with the admission price.

This place is amazing great staff and great tour exhibits. The staff are all ex military from both UK and USA they make you feel welcome and bring the whole place to life. You can feel the history and importants dripping from the walls!

An important museum given its history in dealing with the battle of Britain and cold War. Really well run, interesting, interactive. Stunning italianate gardens and class cafe. Highly recommended.

Well signposted. On a quiet private estate. Beautiful building and Italian gardens, clean toilet facilities, interactive displays, friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Lovely place, museum well laid out & staff very knowledgeable. The grounds are beautiful.

Mind blowing experience in the premises, the place gives a good first impression of the events of the second world war. The sites were a mind blowing experience, the staff were very excellent and helpful and polite. Just what more do I need to say as a tourist and a history nut like me. Breath taking experience.

What an amazing place! A hidden gem and well worth a visit. Beautiful house, immaculate grounds and helpful and informative volunteers. Great to learn the history of the Battle of Britain and what a debt we owe to the courageous airmen and ground staff who helped win the freedom we enjoy today.

We used to be living locally and were able to visit often. Excellent staff who took us around the site

Bentley Priory Museum offers a captivating journey into the heart of World War II history. As an avid enthusiast of historical sites, I was thoroughly impressed by the opportunity to step foot into the central RAF command center that played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war. From the moment I arrived, the museum's atmosphere exuded a sense of significance and reverence. The well-maintained grounds and beautifully restored buildings provided an immersive experience that transported me back in time. The knowledgeable and passionate staff were on hand to guide visitors through the exhibits, sharing intriguing stories and insights into the operations conducted within these hallowed walls. The museum's collection of artifacts and exhibits was exceptional, offering a comprehensive understanding of the strategic importance of Bentley Priory during wartime. The immersive displays, including interactive maps, authentic uniforms, and communication equipment, truly brought the history to life. I was particularly impressed by the attention to detail and the commitment to preserving the historical accuracy of the exhibits. In addition to the impressive displays, the museum also featured engaging audiovisual presentations and informative documentaries that provided a deeper context and a greater appreciation for the significant role played by the central RAF command center. Overall, my visit to Bentley Priory Museum was an exceptional experience. It not only educated me about the critical operations conducted during World War II but also allowed me to connect with the past on a profound level. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about this pivotal period in history, Bentley Priory Museum is an absolute must-visit.

Not just a quiet and engaging museum (even for kids) but the volunteers there are amazing. Lovely projection mapped film experience as well. Not just for adults and super inclusive - not only for the hard of hearing but they even had left handed scissors for kids activities.

Beautiful place. My husband gave a talk there about his father's war experience which was unusual as he was one of WW2's youngest war artists. The grounds are spectacular, the history amazing and they have a quaint tea room. Well worth a visit.

Great tour guides, brilliant short about Sir Hugh Dowding, bright and large rooms to showcase all the artefacts from the Battle of Britain, easy access to all areas, beautiful gardens and a very good cafe! A fitting museum to one of the most important places regarding WWII.

A truly thought provoking and historically important visit! Well worth the visit.

Well worth a visit .Guide was exerlent made the tour very interesting.Great tea rooms . Everyone very welcoming.

Tucked away, this is a gem! Fantastic museum telling the history of RAF Bentley Priory, home to Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain, 11 Group and commemorating The Few. The volunteers who run the museum are fantastic and have a wealth of knowledge; do chat to them! I highly recommend the film which is much more than a 2D video, very well done. I went on a sunny day which was a great opportunity to sit out in the beautiful gardens with a cup of tea and delicious homemade cake. Recommend combining with a visit to the Battle of Britain Bunker at the former RAF Uxbridge.

Very interesting place, from the original priory, a girls school, a hotel and of course there centre of the battle of Britain, this property has been through it all. Excellent presentation throughout. Just when you thought you knew as much as possible about the second world war, think again. Absolutely accessible for disabled users, I was able to do everything from the relative comfort of my wheelchair. Ramps and lifts available to access everything. Great day.

Loved it !!!

The Museum was interesting, but not really with a 5 years old because he was too young to visit this place. However my 9 years old already wanted to know more about the WW2, so I think this place is really good and interesting if your kid's 10 or around. The Cafe had not got too much option, no any diary free products was available but I saw Gluten Free cake. Also they had just English Breakfast tea.

Great place if interested in RAF history.

Amazing hidden gem! A fantastic piece of history, telling the story of the battle of Britain. I took my two children who loved exploring Bentley Priory especially the Italian garden. The exhibition is small but extremely well kept amongst the grand rooms of this beautiful house. The tea room is delightful, looking out on to the garden. I'll certainly be visiting again soon.

I am a volunteer at the Museum

It is a very good day out and informative. The volunteers at the museum are very friendly and knowledgeable. I would thoroughly recommend it as a day out. Very nice cafe as well!

The Bentley Priory is a lovely building set in great grounds and wonderful views. The exhibition are very informative and provide a great insight the World War II and the roll of Bentley Priory. Parking is good as is the cafe. I would recommend for a nice day out.

Definitely worth a visit!

Do visit this wonderful hidden gem. A truly great museum, in a beautiful building, with tour guides (shout-out to Bruce!) telling a very important part of the story of the battle of Britain and the “few” (RAF) who made it possible to victory. The café has a good selection of cakes and sandwiches (they have gluten free options too) in a perfect setting overlooking stunning gardens. The friendly and enthusiastic volunteers make the overall experience even more special. A lovely day out.

Nice place to visit

Great museum and the short film was really engaging and well done. All the staff were super helpful so thank you. Irwin in particular was great explaining the difference between a Spitfire and a Hurricaine to our boys, as well as explaining some of the exhibits. Well worth a visit!

A great museum. A wonderful old mansion with so much history. A very important place during ww2. Lovely gardens

My second-favorite movie of all time is 1969's "The Battle of Britain." (Favorite is "Casablanca.") To walk out of Bentley Priory toward the garden in the footsteps of Laurence Olivier (as ACM Hugh Dowding) was very exciting. There are dozens of books on The Battle of Britain but I can recommend "With Wings like Eagles," by Michael Korda, which focuses on Air Chief Marshall Dowding more than most. After reading this book, you come to realize that Dowding was one of the most important leaders in the Battle of Britain and without him the battle may have turned out differently. There are no large exhibits apart from the aircraft on the lawn, which are purely decorative. This a a museum of small items, reading the information plaques, and incredible artwork (look up). It's small but well done with a good free audio guide. It should take about a leisurely hour or so. To get here: Not easy without a car. Take the Jubilee line west all the way to the end (Stanmore). You can catch a taxi from there of you want. Otherwise take the 142 bus from the station to Heathbourne Road (next-stop sign in bus makes it easy to find). Walk in the direction the bus is traveling and make the first left where you see the sign for Bentley Priory. It's about a 10-15-minute walk. You must, whether walking or driving, check in with security and be let in and out. The Museum is in a residential area and it is obviously a place where the well-to-do live. To get back, the bus is on the other side of the street and little further down. It is easy to see and you can sit.

Great museum and amazing source of information about Battle of Britain and Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding's crucial role in Britain's defence .

Great museum, lovely building. The building it self is also worth the visit. And if you ever been bored watching a short film at a museum, try the theatre room here. It sets a new standard for all museums to be just as engaging. It's good to see an independently run museum do some things better than the ones which have millions in funding. Lastly the cafe with out door seating area is but to be missed followed by a stroll around the estate and gardens.

Great place to visit with the kids. Staff were very polite and attentive and really engaged with the kids. Nice biscuit making going on downstairs and some excellent exhibits which bring the Battle of Britain to life. Would thoroughly recommend

We had a great morning out at the Bentley Priory Museum. We travelled by bus. It was a short walk to the gate to the Bentley Priory estate and a very pleasant walk through the estate to the museum. We looked around the museum. It is very interesting for anyone who is keen on the history of the Battle of Britain. The architecture of the house itself is impressive, but we really liked the garden. We had elevenses and lunch in the café. The food was tasty and reasonably priced. The staff were very helpful and knowledgeable.

A wonderful museum with detailed sense of history

A small museum in a great location! The staff of the museum is more than friendly and treats you as if you were the most important visitor of that day! 🙂

I LIVE THERE AND IT IS AMAZING

There was not a lot of items to look at

You will not be disappointed!

Brilliant. Great museum and nice coffee shop.

Good value food, but the booths could do with a re-cover and a good dust

Honestly if you want to know something more about RAF history and WWii is the best place but defenetly is not worthy of paying 8 pounds for it.... and the bunker is showed on the map and we cannot even access or have an idea of it.... really sad that it is collapsed.... My opinion this is the next step for the 8 pounds fee

Fun museum in a beautiful setting.

Great place

Historical place to visit. Staff very helpful and knowledgeable. Well worth a visit

I really enjoyed my time spent there, it was worth it as I really learned something new. You can find a really nice and friendly restaurant inside, the food is pretty good and prices are fair Totally recommend it.

Very interesting kids can make a plane cockpit which ours loved

Nice aeroplanes in front.

Great museum and lovely mansion. The museum was very interesting and great to see the home of fighter command.

A very nice and interesting visit. Very friendly staff. The cafe is a gem. Great cup of tea and delicious cakes too. Highly recommended.

I have always wanted to visit the nerve centre of Britain's defense in that crucial time in WW2 . I was not disappointed , well thought out , great audio visual support , knowledgeable and friendly staff . Lots of support material for kids and educational and poignant material for adults . Great cafe , reasonably priced and a beautiful picnic area . A must visit !

Great exhibition

Lovely, well thought out museum with great café and beautiful grounds. Very child friendly.

Welcoming and informed volunteer guides showed us the clearly displayed photographs, art and narrative material. The frightening drama of the air battle whose successful outcome was not assured is brilliantly conveyed in this fine building set in beautiful parkland and gardens. A great experience and tribute to all the volunteers and trustees.

A lovely museum with very helpful staff. The cafe is very nice also.

A very worthwhile and reasonably priced museum, dedicated to the very cleaver individuals that supported the Pilots of fighter command that in turn made possible the success of the Battle of Britain in WW2. During your visit take time to enjoy a beverage/snack on the garden patio with an excellent view acoss London.

Absolutely beautiful, amazing grounds, every member of staff were so friendly and so willing to explain facts. We watched a short film which was so good, brilliantly made, explained everything about the building and the people who worked here. I learnt more in this visit than I did a few years in history lessons at school. Lovely cafe, was able to sit outside in the sunshine. A little shop which was very reasonable. I highly recommend going here

Good museum with friendly staff, well worth a visit

Not bad but nit as good as seen in picture

A lovely museum inside a historic mansion, hidden away in suburban London. It is a well run, interesting place, staffed by the friendliest volunteers who will attend to you and share their knowledge liberally.

Fantastic museum, very friendly and informative staff. Worth watching the video first before looking around. The cafe is great looking out to the gardens. Highly recommended.

Amazing place! The museum is fab. The buildings are old, well kept, interesting and mysterious. You could let your imagination run wild in this place. Unique!