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Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar: Living Legacy of the Spitfire

Explore the iconic Spitfire legacy at Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, where history soars and restoration brings WWII aviation to life.

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The Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, located at 204 Churchill Way in Westerham near London, is a unique aviation hub dedicated to restoring and flying iconic WWII aircraft, especially the legendary Spitfire. This working hangar offers visitors an immersive experience into the history, engineering, and living legacy of one of Britain’s most celebrated fighter planes, set against the historic backdrop of RAF Biggin Hill, a pivotal Battle of Britain airfield.

A brief summary to Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar

  • 204 Churchill Way, Westerham, Biggin Hill, TN16 3BN, GB
  • +441959576767
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Book your Spitfire flight or hangar tour in advance as spots are limited and highly sought after.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and standing during the 90-minute guided tours.
  • Bring a camera to capture close-up views of the aircraft and restoration work, but follow safety guidelines.
  • Check weather conditions before your visit, as flight experiences depend on suitable flying weather.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from central London to Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available onsite free of charge. Note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

  • Train and Taxi

    Take a train from London Victoria to Orpington (about 25 minutes), then a taxi ride of approximately 20 minutes to the hangar. Taxi fares typically range from £15 to £25.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Biggin Hill village to Westerham and Orpington, with a final taxi or rideshare of 5–10 minutes to the hangar. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.

Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar

A Storied Aviation Landmark Rooted in History

Nestled in the heart of Biggin Hill Airport, the Heritage Hangar stands on grounds steeped in aviation history dating back to World War I. Originally established as a Royal Flying Corps base, Biggin Hill evolved into a crucial fighter station during the Battle of Britain. The hangar today preserves this legacy, serving as a living museum and restoration workshop where the spirit of wartime aviation is kept alive through the care of historic aircraft.

The Spitfire: Icon of British Resilience

The hangar’s centerpiece is its remarkable collection of airworthy Spitfires, including six fully restored planes and several undergoing meticulous restoration. These aircraft embody the bravery and innovation of the pilots and engineers who shaped the war effort. Visitors can witness skilled craftsmen using traditional riveting and panel techniques, and see the inner workings of these legendary fighters, from Merlin engines to fabric-covered wings.

A Working Restoration Facility and Museum

Unlike typical static museums, the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar is a bustling factory where restoration is ongoing. The facility also houses Hurricanes, Harvards, a Messerschmitt 109, and a Piper Cub, along with vintage cars and WWII artefacts. Guided tours reveal the painstaking process of returning these aircraft to flying condition, offering rare insights into aviation engineering and history. The hangar’s working environment allows visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and even smells of a living aviation workshop.

Experiential Aviation Adventures

Beyond tours, the hangar offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as flying in two-seater Spitfires over the Kent countryside and coast. These flights, often described as adrenaline-fueled and deeply emotional, allow participants to take the controls under expert supervision. The hangar also hosts special events and flypasts, connecting visitors directly to the legacy of the Battle of Britain and the enduring allure of the Spitfire.

Honouring Pilots and Their Stories

The hangar is more than a collection of aircraft; it is a tribute to the people behind them. It preserves stories of Allied and even German pilots, including aces like Squadron Leader Tony Gaze and Claude Weaver. Personal artifacts and signed aircraft highlight the shared respect and complex history of those who flew these machines. This human element enriches the visitor experience, making it a place of remembrance and inspiration.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Visitors can enjoy guided tours lasting about 90 minutes, with knowledgeable hosts providing detailed commentary. Facilities include accessible toilets, baby changing, and refreshments. Photography is encouraged, capturing the unique opportunity to get close to these historic aircraft. The hangar’s location within an active airfield adds to the authentic atmosphere, where the roar of Merlin engines and the sight of Spitfires taking flight create unforgettable memories.

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