About

Vulcan Restoration Trust is a registered charity staffed wholly by volunteers. It is based in Hangars 5 and 6 at London Southend Airport, Essex, where it maintains Avro Vulcan B2 XL426 in full ground running condition.

XL426 is a former Royal Air Force aircraft and served as part of the UK's nuclear deterrent force during the Cold War from 1962 before being retired in 1986. The Trust maintains XL426 as a tribute to the men and women who flew, serviced and operated the Vulcan in the Royal Air Force and as an important part of the nation's aviation heritage.

XL426 is the only Vulcan in the world that is based indoors as well as being maintained in 'live' condition.

The Trust holds several public open days each year, including events at which XL426's cockpit is open to visitors and other events where XL426 is taxied at high-speed on the London Southend Airport runway. The Trust also holds special fundraising events such as Proms at the Vulcan, Music & Beer Festival at the Vulcan and 40s & 50s Hangar Dance at the Vulcan.

There is also a programme of Vulcan VIP Visits where visitors get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Vulcan's hangar and workshops. Visits for community and school groups are also available by prior arrangement.

Alongside XL426, visitors can also see examples of the weapons the Vulcan carried during its service with the RAF. There are also displays telling the story of the Vulcan, XL426 and the jet engine. There are also displays that tell the story of London Southend Airport.

There is a well-stocked Hangar Shop, selling a range of Vulcan books, clothing and other souvenirs which visitors can take away as mementos of their visit. All profits from the sale of souvenirs goes towards the maintenance and preservation of Vulcan XL426.

Full details of all the Trust's open days and events can be found on its website, where advance tickets can be purchased.