The Foynes Flying Boat Museum is the only aviation museum in Ireland and the only dedicated flying boat museum in the world. This unique attraction preserves the rich history of aviation and the development of passenger travel. The museum is housed in the original terminal building in Foynes, recalling that nostalgic era when Foynes became the centre of the aviation world from 1937 to 1945.
A Unique Experience For All:
There was a time when the great Flying Boats criss-crossed the globe, and during this romantic period the picturesque village of Foynes became one of the great aviation hubs of the world. All of the great and good in aviation were drawn to this beautiful harbour village on the shores of the Shannon Estuary, the last re-fuelling stop before taking on the might of the Atlantic Ocean.
The award winning Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum excitingly captures and recalls this nostalgic era with a comprehensive range of displays, artifacts and interactive exhibits. Visitors have a once in a lifetime opportunity to board the world’s only Boeing 314 Flying Boat, a phenomenal walk-in full-size replica, reliving what it was like to fly in the lap of luxury.
Throughout the terminal building this truly unique story is told by way of original film in a 1940s style cinema, showcases covering the war years, weather, radio and airline memorabilia displays, plus you can even try your hand at flying a Flying Boat by challenging yourself to fly our NEW BOEING 314 NEW FLIGHT SIMULATORS.
Foynes and the Flying Boats will be forever connected with the invention of Irish Coffee as they combined to give us this uniquely Irish treat and as with anything in Ireland the weather played a key role. Learn all about this historic event by watching a wonderful 3D holographic show re-enacting this famous night back in 1943 and then why not taste a delicious Irish Coffee in its original home. O’Regan’s Restaurant recreates the ambiance of bygone days and you can enjoy many tasty homemade delights such as lunch or afternoon tea in a beautiful 1940s setting. Our Gift Shop sells a wide range of bespoke gifts & souvenirs.
The Maritime Museum:
The Maritime Museum allows you to relive the history and personality of the River Shannon. While Maritime may only conjure images of water and docks, the history charted at the museum will give you an insight into how the river changed and shaped the lives of those who lived on or near it through the centuries. Read the story of transportation and emigration on the river during the famine, and see how American Confederate uniforms were made in Limerick and shipped from Foynes during the American Civil War. Uncover the tragic story of the Colleen Bawn and the weird tale of “Windsor Castle Ghost Ship” and much more. Enter the original Control Tower from the 1940s which offers panoramic views of the majestic Shannon Estuary, Foynes Island, Village & Harbour.
Foynes Village:
The quaint village of Foynes is nestled along the banks of the Shannon Estuary on the Scenic N69 route, a recommended Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point. There are many other activities to enjoy in Foynes including woodland walks, a picnic area beside the banks of the estuary and a modern children’s playground. After a day of fun activities why not take a drive further west for stunning hilltop views of the Shannon Estuary along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Photography Credits:
Images supplied courtesy of Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum.
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