Bicester Heritage: The UK’s Premier Historic Motoring Campus
Explore the UK’s first historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
Bicester Heritage, located on the historic RAF Bomber Station site near Bicester, Oxfordshire, is the UK’s first business campus dedicated to historic motoring and aviation. It offers a unique blend of vintage car restoration, specialist automotive businesses, and immersive events like the famous Scramble. The site’s sympathetically restored 1920s-30s buildings and active community of classic car enthusiasts create an authentic and vibrant atmosphere for visitors and motoring fans alike.
A brief summary to Bicester Heritage
- A4421, Bicester, Launton, OX26 5HA, GB
- +441869327928
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during one of the triannual Scramble events for the fullest experience of classic car displays, workshops, and family activities.
- Book a classic car driving experience in advance to enjoy iconic vehicles on the dedicated track.
- Arrive early on event days to secure good parking and avoid peak crowds.
- Check the official website for event-specific opening hours and ticketing information.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Bicester Heritage. The site is located off the A4421 near Bicester, Oxfordshire, with ample parking available especially on event days. Travel time from central Oxford is approximately 25-35 minutes. Parking is free but can fill quickly during major events.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Bicester town center to nearby areas, but direct public transport to Bicester Heritage is limited. Visitors can take a bus to Bicester town and then use a taxi or rideshare for the 5-7 minute journey to the site. Bus travel from Oxford to Bicester town takes about 45-60 minutes, with fares around £5-£7.
-
Taxi / Rideshare
From Bicester town center or the train station, taxis and rideshare services provide a quick 5-10 minute ride to Bicester Heritage. This option is recommended if arriving by train or bus. Typical fares range from £8 to £15 depending on time and service.
Bicester Heritage location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bicester Heritage
A Living Legacy of Aviation and Motoring History
Bicester Heritage is situated on the grounds of a former RAF Bomber Station dating back to the 1920s, deeply rooted in British military and aviation history. After decades of neglect, the site was carefully restored starting in 2013, preserving its original 1930s architecture and atmosphere. Today, it stands as a rare example of sensitive heritage conservation, praised by Historic England for maintaining its period charm while adapting to modern uses.A Hub for Classic Car Restoration and Enthusiasts
The campus hosts a cluster of specialist businesses focused on the restoration, maintenance, and enjoyment of classic cars and vintage aircraft. Visitors can explore workshops and showrooms where expert craftsmen work on iconic vehicles, including British legends like the Jaguar E-Type, Aston Martin Vantage, and Mini Cooper, as well as American muscle cars such as the Ford Mustang GT 500 and Chevrolet Camaro SS. This ecosystem supports a vibrant community passionate about preserving automotive heritage.Immersive Events and the Famous Scramble
Bicester Heritage is renowned for its triannual Scramble events, which attract thousands of visitors eager to experience the site’s unique blend of heritage and automotive culture. These open days offer a chance to see classic and modern collector cars, engage with car clubs, and enjoy family-friendly activities, food vendors, and interactive heritage trails. The Scramble embodies the spirit of the community and offers an immersive day out that celebrates motoring excellence.Authenticity and Atmosphere in Every Corner
Unlike typical industrial parks, Bicester Heritage offers a genuine historic environment where the sounds of vintage engines echo through restored hangars and workshops. The site’s founder emphasizes authenticity and pride, aiming to create a place where visitors and enthusiasts alike can relax, socialize, and share their passion for classic vehicles in a setting that feels like stepping back in time.Driving Experiences and Visitor Engagement
For those seeking a hands-on experience, Bicester Heritage offers classic car driving packages on its 1.3-mile track, featuring a selection of iconic British and American vehicles. These experiences provide a thrilling way to connect with automotive history, guided by expert instructors. The Heritage Skills Academy also operates here, training new generations in restoration and preservation skills.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
The site includes amenities such as parking (especially ample on event days), food vendors, and basic visitor facilities. While public transport options are limited, the location is easily accessible by car. The community atmosphere, combined with the historic setting and range of activities, makes Bicester Heritage a distinctive destination for motoring fans and history enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
18.0 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Weston Library
19.5 km
Explore the Weston Library in Oxford - a cultural gem featuring rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers.
New College Ln
19.5 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
Bridge of Sighs
19.5 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Clarendon Building
19.5 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Bodleian Library
19.5 km
Discover the Bodleian Library, an iconic historical landmark in Oxford, home to millions of texts and a hub for cultural events and tours.
The Sheldonian Theatre
19.5 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of The Sheldonian Theatre, a historic performing arts gem in the heart of Oxford.
Bodleian Old Library
19.6 km
Discover the Bodleian Old Library, a historic treasure in Oxford, steeped in knowledge and architectural beauty, inviting all to explore its literary wonders.
History of Science Museum
19.6 km
Explore the History of Science Museum in Oxford: A treasure trove of scientific instruments and manuscripts showcasing centuries of innovation and discovery.
City Sightseeing Oxford
19.6 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and stunning architecture with City Sightseeing Oxford’s immersive bus tours for an unforgettable travel experience.
The Oxford Ghost Tour
19.6 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
Martyrs' Memorial
19.6 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
The Queen's College
19.6 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
Radcliffe Camera
19.6 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical rotunda, the Radcliffe Camera is Oxford’s iconic library landmark and a symbol of academic heritage.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
19.6 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bicester Village
2.8 km
Luxury designer outlet village with 150+ boutiques, up to 70% off, and festive charm near Oxford.
The Old Flight House
7.4 km
Explore a stylish emporium of antiques, vintage treasures, and a charming café in a spacious, light-filled setting near Bicester.
National Trust - Boarstall Tower
10.7 km
Explore Boarstall Tower, a stunning 14th-century moated gatehouse steeped in medieval legend and civil war history, set in serene Buckinghamshire gardens.
Brill Windmill
11.9 km
Explore Brill Windmill, a majestic 17th-century post mill perched atop Buckinghamshire’s hills, embodying centuries of rural milling heritage and craftsmanship.
National Trust - Claydon
12.8 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Claydon Estate
12.8 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
Finemere Wood
13.2 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
St Rumbold's Well
13.4 km
Discover the ancient sacred spring of Saint Rumbold, a medieval pilgrimage site steeped in legend and local heritage in Buckingham.
National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
14.1 km
Discover Buckingham’s oldest building, a medieval chapel with a Norman doorway, rich history, and a charming second-hand bookshop.
Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust
14.2 km
Explore centuries of Buckinghamshire’s military heritage within the historic Old Gaol, a unique museum blending local history and immersive exhibits.
Buckingham Old Gaol
14.2 km
Explore Buckingham’s historic former prison, a compact museum revealing the town’s rich social and legal heritage through immersive exhibits.
National Trust - Stowe Gardens
15.2 km
A masterpiece of 18th-century landscape design, where classical temples rise from sweeping parkland and serpentine lakes.
Pebble Alcove
15.3 km
Explore Pebble Alcove in Buckingham, a stunning landmark that combines unique architecture with serene natural beauty for a perfect getaway.
Temple of British Worthies
15.4 km
Discover the Temple of British Worthies in Buckingham, a landmark celebrating revered figures of British history amidst beautiful gardens.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
15.6 km
Step back in time at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, where historic steam trains, a stunning glass-roofed Visitor Centre, and family events bring railway heritage to life.
Essential places to dine
Cecconi's Bicester
2.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and artisanal dishes in the stylish heart of Bicester Village.
Nut Tree Inn
8.8 km
Michelin-starred fine dining meets historic charm in the heart of Oxfordshire’s countryside at The Nut Tree Inn.
CANALETTO
11.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
The Orangery at RH England
11.6 km
Elegant live-fire dining in a grand orangery with scenic deer park views and refined, high-quality cuisine in Aynho Park.
Beefeater Buckingham
13.9 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
Allium Dining
15.0 km
Intimate farm-to-table dining in Buckinghamshire, where seasonal British produce meets creative culinary artistry.
The Old Thatched Inn
15.5 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The Five Arrows
16.7 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
Pompette
17.5 km
Experience authentic French flavors and warm hospitality in Oxford’s charming Summertown at Pompette, a refined brasserie with seasonal delights.
The Oxford Kitchen
17.6 km
Michelin-starred British fine dining in Oxford’s Summertown, blending seasonal ingredients with elegant ambiance and impeccable service.
Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
18.0 km
Historic riverside dining in Oxford offering modern British cuisine, award-winning wines, and scenic boat hire in a charming Victorian boathouse.
The Angel Restaurant
18.3 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Pilgrim Pub
18.4 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
18.6 km
Elegant British dining in a charming Victorian villa at Oxford’s Cotswold Lodge Hotel, blending classic and contemporary flavors.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
18.7 km
A Mediterranean culinary retreat in a stunning Victorian glasshouse, blending seasonal dishes with elegant charm in Oxford’s Park Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Meadow Walk Shopping Centre
14.3 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
Gatineau Artisan Patisserie & Bakery
17.6 km
Authentic French artisan patisserie in Oxford’s Summertown, crafting exquisite pastries, breads, and bespoke cakes with premium ingredients.
Beautifully Different Winslow
18.0 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
19.5 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
The Retro Room
19.5 km
Discover Oxford’s stylish hub for vintage and designer second-hand fashion, blending sustainability with unique finds in a welcoming boutique setting.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
19.5 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Antiques On High Oxford L.T.D.
19.6 km
Explore a charming antique shop in Oxford, offering a curated selection of unique vintage treasures that tell stories of the past.
Cool Britannia
19.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of Oxford at Cool Britannia, your go-to shop for memorable memorabilia and more.
Oxford Souvenirs
19.6 km
Discover authentic Oxford heritage and unique keepsakes at this charming High Street souvenir shop, open daily for all visitors.
Broad Canvas
19.6 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Babylon Trading
19.6 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Oxford Campus Stores
19.6 km
Explore the vibrant Oxford Campus Stores for unique gifts, trendy apparel, and memorable souvenirs showcasing the essence of Oxford's rich heritage.
Watsons of Oxford
19.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
19.7 km
Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
The Shop of Secrets
19.7 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
14.2 km
Historic pub meets vibrant coffee and gin bar with a sunny courtyard garden in the heart of Buckingham’s Market Hill.
The Grand Junction
14.4 km
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pub in Buckingham with wood-fired pizzas, cozy bar, private function room, and charming courtyard dining.
The Duke Of Cambridge
19.3 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Jude The Obscure
19.3 km
A literary-inspired British pub in Oxford’s Jericho with award-winning food, lively sports viewing, and a dog-friendly heated beer garden.
Lamb and Flag
19.3 km
Historic Oxford pub famed for its Inklings literary heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent local ales since 1613.
The Rickety Press
19.4 km
A lively Jericho pub blending funky vibes, quality pizzas, inventive burgers, and a welcoming community spirit in the heart of Oxford.
LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
19.4 km
Experience Oxford’s best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at LJ - Love Jericho, where expert mixology meets a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Turf Tavern
19.4 km
Discover Oxford’s hidden gem: a 600-year-old historic pub famed for its cozy charm, legendary patrons, and timeless atmosphere.
King's Arms, Oxford
19.4 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
19.5 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
The Cape Of Good Hope
19.7 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Grapes
19.7 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
19.8 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
Sandy's Piano Bar
19.8 km
Experience the magic of live music at Sandy's Piano Bar in Oxford, where every night is a celebration of talent and good times.
All Bar One Oxford
19.8 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fever Oxford
19.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
19.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
20.0 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
20.0 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
20.0 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
20.0 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
24.9 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
Garudaa
29.5 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
Pink Punters
30.8 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
TWC
31.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Elysium
39.3 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
Stereo Bar and Club
39.3 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
NB's
39.3 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Club43
39.4 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
The Platform
39.4 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly