Bicester Heritage, Northamptonshire Travel Guide

A Living Legacy of Aviation and Motoring History

Bicester Heritage occupies the historic grounds of RAF Bicester, a key Royal Air Force base established in the 1920s and active through World War II. The site was originally a bomber training station, housing aircraft such as the Handley Page Halifax. After decades of military use and subsequent neglect, the airfield and its buildings were carefully restored starting in the early 2000s. Today, Bicester Heritage stands as a nationally important exemplar of constructive conservation, preserving over 95% of its historic structures with authentic 1930s British paint colours and architectural details.

A Hub for Classic Car Restoration and Enthusiasts

Since its founding in 2013, Bicester Heritage has evolved into the UK’s first dedicated business campus for historic motoring and aviation. Over 50 specialist companies operate here, focusing on classic car restoration, engineering, and preservation. The site’s unique ecosystem supports a wide range of activities from vintage vehicle maintenance to bespoke manufacturing. This vibrant community is complemented by the Heritage Skills Academy, which trains new generations in restoration crafts, ensuring the survival of automotive heritage skills.

Dynamic Events and Driving Experiences

Bicester Heritage is renowned for its lively calendar of events, including the popular "Scramble" car meets that attract a stunning variety of classic, vintage, and performance vehicles. Visitors can experience driving sessions on the 1.43-mile (2.3 km) test track that encircles the site, offering a blend of historical ambiance and modern driving thrills. The site also hosts film shoots, automotive exhibitions, and social gatherings, providing a multifaceted experience for visitors and participants alike.

Architectural and Environmental Features

The site spans 444 acres, including approximately 350 acres of airfield space with flat, well-drained grass ideal for parking and large-scale events. The centerpiece is the 1936 C-Type hangar, an imposing indoor space with a single-span steel roof covering 45,000 square feet. The historic hangars and buildings provide atmospheric backdrops that evoke the site’s aviation past while supporting contemporary uses. The grounds combine open outdoor areas with carefully preserved heritage buildings, creating a unique blend of natural and built environments.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors to Bicester Heritage can explore the historic hangars, admire a vast collection of vintage motors, and attend a variety of automotive events throughout the year. Food and drink options are available during events, and the site offers ample parking, though it can fill quickly on busy days. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, catering to a broad audience from families to dedicated car enthusiasts. The site’s location near Bicester and its proximity to Oxford and London make it accessible for day trips and weekend visits.

Preserving Heritage While Embracing Innovation

Bicester Heritage exemplifies how historic preservation can coexist with vibrant modern industry. It celebrates the rich legacy of British aviation and motoring while fostering innovation through its cluster of specialist businesses. The site’s careful restoration and ongoing use as a centre for classic car culture ensure that this remarkable piece of history remains alive and relevant for future generations.