Watch Office

Experience the sights and sounds of wartime Britain in our faithfully reconstructed 1940s Watch Office — once the beating heart of RAF Hawkinge.

The Airfield’s “Eyes and Ears”

Originally standing just 200 yards to the west, this historic building has been lovingly reborn. Constructed using salvaged architectural pieces from the original RAF Hawkinge structure, it now welcomes you into a world frozen in time.

The Watch Office desk with field telephones and a typewriter, looking out through green-framed windows at a Hurricane in the museum grounds

Every corner is steeped in authenticity. From period-accurate furniture and memorabilia to the smallest structural details — including era-appropriate picture rails and skirting boards — you’ll feel transported to the 1940s.

Two volunteers in RAF uniform at the Watch Office desk with a typewriter and field telephones, a Hurricane visible through the green-framed windows

A Home on the Home Front

Within the building, you’ll discover a beautifully recreated 1940 sitting room and kitchen. Step inside and imagine daily life as it was during the war years — an intimate glimpse into the world of those who lived, worked, and waited here.

A visitor reading in an armchair in the recreated 1940s sitting room, with the piano against the far wall

Discover Our Wartime Treasures

At the heart of the collection sits the piano originally played in the Officers’ Mess at RAF Hawkinge. Surrounding it, you’ll find:

A 1939 Westminster chime wall clock
A vintage Singer sewing machine
Replica Air Ministry coat hangers
An RAF parachute and Mae West life jacket
An iconic RAF greatcoat

A visitor looking at the wall clock and period memorabilia in the recreated wartime room, with a gramophone and tea table

Many of these treasured pieces have been gathered over the years through museum contacts and generous donations from our visitors — each one adding another layer of history to this remarkable space.

Come and step back in time. History is waiting.