Bicester Heritage: The UK’s Premier Historic Motoring Campus
Explore the UK’s premier historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
Bicester Heritage is the UK’s first dedicated business campus for historic motoring and aviation, located in Launton near Bicester. Set on a restored former WWII RAF bomber station, it is a vibrant hub for classic car restoration, vintage aviation, and automotive events. Visitors can explore workshops, see rare vehicles, and attend lively events like the iconic Scramble, all within an authentic 1920s-30s atmosphere.
A brief summary to Bicester Heritage
- A4421, Bicester, Launton, OX26 5HA, GB
- +441869327928
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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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 the Bicester Scramble events to experience the full vibrancy of classic car displays, workshops, and family activities.
- Book classic car driving experiences in advance to secure a chance to drive legendary vehicles on the onsite track.
- Arrive early on event days for easier parking and better opportunities to explore before crowds build.
- Check opening hours before visiting, as the campus is generally closed on weekends except for special events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Bicester Heritage from central Bicester takes approximately 15 minutes via the A4421. Ample free parking is available on-site, especially during events, though early arrival is advised to secure a spot.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Bicester town center to Launton village near Bicester Heritage, with a journey time of around 25-30 minutes. From Launton, a 15-minute walk over rural terrain leads to the campus; check schedules as service frequency is limited.
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Taxi
Taxis from Bicester town center to Bicester Heritage typically take 10-15 minutes and cost around £10-£15. This is a convenient option when public transport schedules do not align with your visit.
Bicester Heritage location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bicester Heritage
A Living Legacy of British Motoring and Aviation
Bicester Heritage occupies a unique place in the UK's automotive landscape as the first business campus wholly dedicated to historic motoring and aviation. The site is situated on the grounds of a former RAF Bomber Station dating back to the 1920s, which has been meticulously restored to preserve its original architectural charm and period atmosphere. This historic airfield setting provides an evocative backdrop where vintage aircraft and classic vehicles coexist, embodying a rich heritage of British engineering and craftsmanship.A Thriving Hub for Classic Car Restoration and Innovation
Today, Bicester Heritage is home to a cluster of industry-leading specialists focused on the restoration, maintenance, and enjoyment of classic cars and vintage aircraft. The campus hosts a range of workshops and businesses where skilled artisans breathe new life into historic vehicles, from iconic British marques like Jaguar, Aston Martin, and Austin Healey to prized American muscle cars. This ecosystem fosters a supportive community passionate about preserving automotive history while embracing modern techniques.Immersive Events Celebrating Automotive Culture
The site’s calendar is punctuated by signature events such as the Bicester Scramble, held three times a year, which draws thousands of enthusiasts. These open days offer visitors the rare opportunity to explore behind the scenes of restoration workshops, witness a stunning array of classic and performance cars, and engage with like-minded aficionados. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by family-friendly activities, heritage trails, and diverse food offerings, making it a memorable outing for all ages.Authenticity and Atmosphere in Every Detail
Bicester Heritage prides itself on maintaining an authentic experience rather than a commercialized theme park feel. The buildings have been restored with careful attention to original details, including paint colors matched to 1930s British Standards. The site buzzes with the sounds of vintage engines and the sight of meticulously maintained vehicles, creating a sensory journey through automotive history. Visitors often find themselves stepping through a portal to a bygone era, enriched by the passion and expertise of the community.Driving Experiences and Educational Opportunities
Beyond observation, Bicester Heritage offers immersive driving experiences on its purpose-built 1.3-mile track. Enthusiasts can book sessions behind the wheel of legendary classics such as the Jaguar E-Type, Aston Martin Vantage, and American muscle cars like the Ford Mustang GT 500. The Heritage Skills Academy also operates here, providing training in restoration and preservation, ensuring the continuation of traditional skills in historic motoring and aviation.Visitor Amenities and Practical Information
The campus is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:30, with closures on weekends except for special event days. Parking is generally free, particularly on event days, though it is recommended to arrive early for the best spots. Food options are available during events, and the site is accessible with some provisions for disabled visitors. The campus’s location in the Oxfordshire countryside offers a tranquil setting, blending history, culture, and community spirit in a unique destination for automotive enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly