National Trust turns RAF museum area into 'grab and go' café

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, July 28, 2026

The National Trust plans to convert part of the RAF Defford Museum into a “grab-and-go” café, prompting strong opposition from the Defford Airfield Heritage Group, which restored the site and oversees its operation. Critics argue that the changes risk undermining the museum’s historical significance and disrespecting the legacy of the airmen commemorated there, while the Trust aims to make the site more sustainable and accessible.

The National Trust has faced criticism over plans to convert part of the RAF Defford Museum in Worcestershire into a “grab-and-go” café. The museum, located within the National Trust-owned Croome Court estate, commemorates the role of RAF Defford during the Second World War, particularly its involvement in the development and testing of airborne radar.

Volunteers from the Defford Airfield Heritage Group (DAHG), who have overseen extensive restoration work on the site since 2015, expressed strong opposition to the proposal. DAHG invested up to £230,000 transforming the former ambulance garage and mortuary, which were in a state of disrepair, into a museum attraction that draws more than 50,000 visitors annually.

Jonathan Wootton, chairman of DAHG, called the National Trust’s decision "morally bankrupt" and said the group was “surprised and disappointed.” Wootton pointed out that the National Trust already operates a large café on the estate and manages over 3,000 acres of land, questioning why the historic ambulance garage and mortuary area should be repurposed for food service. He emphasized the importance of respecting the legacy of the 58 airmen who lost their lives at RAF Defford and described converting part of the building into a café as disrespectful.

Mike Mullins, a former DAHG volunteer, highlighted the heritage group’s successful efforts in rescuing the site from neglect. Mullins stated that the group's work had helped to highlight the significance of Croome’s history and garnered substantial local and national support.

In response, a spokesperson for the National Trust said the organisation is “exploring options for use of the museum at Defford” with the goal of making the site “sustainable and accessible to as many people as possible” while maintaining its historical importance. The Trust noted it has been engaged in ongoing discussions about the building’s future but did not provide specifics on the timeline or final plans.

The debate reflects tensions between heritage conservation and commercial sustainability as historic sites seek ways to attract visitors and generate revenue. The National Trust’s proposed changes to the RAF Defford Museum continue to draw scrutiny from those dedicated to preserving the memory of the airfield’s contribution during the war.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.