RAF Bicester: A Premier Interwar and WWII Bomber Airfield
Explore RAF Bicester, the UK’s most complete interwar bomber airfield, where history and heritage soar together.
RAF Bicester, located near Launton, Bicester, is the most complete surviving example of a Royal Air Force bomber base from the interwar expansion period. Established in 1916 and redeveloped in the 1920s and 1930s, it played a vital role in training bomber crews during WWII and witnessed the first flight of the Handley Page Halifax heavy bomber in 1939. Today, the site preserves historic hangars, bomb stores, and airfield defenses, representing a key chapter in British military aviation history.
A brief summary to RAF Bicester
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and better access to specialist workshops at Bicester Heritage.
- Bring a camera to capture the historic hangars and unique WWII defensive structures preserved on site.
- Check for any heritage events or open days hosted by Bicester Heritage to gain deeper insights into the site’s history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the airfield involves walking across grass and uneven terrain.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Travelers can reach Bicester Heritage by taking a train to Bicester North station from Oxford or London Marylebone, with journey times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. From Bicester North, a local bus service or taxi can be used to cover the approximately 5 km distance to RAF Bicester. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for frequency. Taxi fares typically range from £10 to £15.
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Car
Driving to RAF Bicester is straightforward via the A41 or A4421 roads. The site offers limited parking with some restrictions due to ongoing heritage activities. Travel times from Oxford or central Bicester are approximately 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Parking fees may apply on-site or nearby.
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Cycling
For active travelers, cycling from Bicester town center to RAF Bicester is feasible via quiet country lanes and designated cycle paths, taking about 20–30 minutes. Terrain is mostly flat but some rural roads may have limited lighting and narrow sections.
RAF Bicester location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about RAF Bicester
Foundations of a Strategic Airfield
RAF Bicester began as a Royal Flying Corps training aerodrome in 1916, established to prepare airmen for the Western Front during World War I. Initially equipped with canvas Bessonneau hangars, the site expanded through the 1920s into a bomber station under the RAF's Home Defence Expansion Scheme. By the late 1930s, it had grown to accommodate larger aircraft and featured new C-type hangars and a control tower, reflecting its increasing strategic importance. The airfield’s grass flying field and 1939 boundaries remain largely intact, preserving the layout that defined its operational period.A Crucible for Bomber Training and Innovation
During the Second World War, RAF Bicester was a key Operational Training Unit for Bomber Command, training British and Commonwealth crews on medium bombers like the Bristol Blenheim and later Mosquitos. It was from this site that the prototype Handley Page Halifax, the RAF’s first four-engine heavy bomber, made its maiden flight in October 1939. The airfield also supported the build-up to D-Day by storing and supplying essential materials. Defensive structures such as pillboxes, trenches, and bomb stores built during this period still stand, illustrating the airfield’s wartime role.Architectural and Military Heritage Preserved
RAF Bicester is recognized as a Scheduled Monument and is the most complete example of an interwar RAF bomber base in the UK. The site includes listed hangars, bomb stores, and air-raid shelters, many of which have been restored or conserved with support from Historic England. Notably, a unique shelter with advanced damp-proofing measures remains a subject of historical investigation. The airfield’s military landscape, including dispersed aircraft parking areas and defensive works, offers a tangible link to RAF operational history.Postwar Roles and Contemporary Revival
After WWII, RAF Bicester adapted to various roles including aircraft crash investigation, parachute servicing, and gliding. The domestic site was sold in 2010, but the airfield itself has found new life as Bicester Heritage, the UK’s first heritage business park dedicated to historic motoring and aviation. This innovative reuse preserves the site’s aviation legacy while fostering a community of specialists in vintage aircraft and motorcar restoration, ensuring the continuation of traditional skills and the site’s cultural significance.Landscape and Environment of the Airfield
The airfield retains its expansive grass flying field, surrounded by original buildings and defensive structures that blend military functionality with the rural Oxfordshire landscape. The site’s historic fabric is complemented by its open vistas and the preserved layout of runways and dispersal areas, offering visitors a sense of the operational scale and atmosphere of a WWII bomber station. Conservation efforts have balanced heritage preservation with adaptive reuse, maintaining the site’s character while supporting sustainable development.Legacy and Educational Importance
RAF Bicester stands as a monument to the evolution of British air power and the strategic vision of figures like Sir Hugh Trenchard. It embodies the RAF’s transition into a meritocratic and technology-driven force, training thousands of aircrew who served in critical campaigns. The site’s preservation and ongoing use as a heritage hub provide educational opportunities and inspire future generations to appreciate the historical and technical achievements of the RAF during a pivotal era.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
18.2 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Weston Library
19.7 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
19.7 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
Bridge of Sighs
19.7 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Clarendon Building
19.7 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Bodleian Library
19.7 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
19.7 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
19.7 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
19.7 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
19.7 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
19.7 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
Martyrs' Memorial
19.8 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
The Queen's College
19.8 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
Radcliffe Camera
19.8 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
19.8 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
3.0 km
Luxury designer outlet village with 150+ boutiques, up to 70% off, and festive charm near Oxford.
The Old Flight House
7.7 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
11.8 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
12.5 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Claydon Estate
12.5 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
Finemere Wood
12.9 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
St Rumbold's Well
13.1 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
13.8 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
13.9 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
14.0 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
15.0 km
A masterpiece of 18th-century landscape design, where classical temples rise from sweeping parkland and serpentine lakes.
Pebble Alcove
15.0 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
15.2 km
Discover the Temple of British Worthies in Buckingham, a landmark celebrating revered figures of British history amidst beautiful gardens.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
15.4 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
3.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and artisanal dishes in the stylish heart of Bicester Village.
Nut Tree Inn
8.9 km
Michelin-starred fine dining meets historic charm in the heart of Oxfordshire’s countryside at The Nut Tree Inn.
CANALETTO
10.9 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
The Orangery at RH England
11.7 km
Elegant live-fire dining in a grand orangery with scenic deer park views and refined, high-quality cuisine in Aynho Park.
Beefeater Buckingham
13.6 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
Allium Dining
14.8 km
Intimate farm-to-table dining in Buckinghamshire, where seasonal British produce meets creative culinary artistry.
The Old Thatched Inn
15.2 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The Five Arrows
16.5 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
Pompette
17.7 km
Experience authentic French flavors and warm hospitality in Oxford’s charming Summertown at Pompette, a refined brasserie with seasonal delights.
The Oxford Kitchen
17.8 km
Michelin-starred British fine dining in Oxford’s Summertown, blending seasonal ingredients with elegant ambiance and impeccable service.
The Pilgrim Pub
18.1 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
18.1 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
18.2 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
18.8 km
Elegant British dining in a charming Victorian villa at Oxford’s Cotswold Lodge Hotel, blending classic and contemporary flavors.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
18.9 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
14.0 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
Beautifully Different Winslow
17.7 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
Gatineau Artisan Patisserie & Bakery
17.8 km
Authentic French artisan patisserie in Oxford’s Summertown, crafting exquisite pastries, breads, and bespoke cakes with premium ingredients.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
19.7 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
The Retro Room
19.7 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
19.7 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Antiques On High Oxford L.T.D.
19.8 km
Explore a charming antique shop in Oxford, offering a curated selection of unique vintage treasures that tell stories of the past.
Oxford Souvenirs
19.8 km
Discover authentic Oxford heritage and unique keepsakes at this charming High Street souvenir shop, open daily for all visitors.
Cool Britannia
19.8 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.
Babylon Trading
19.8 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Broad Canvas
19.8 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Oxford Campus Stores
19.8 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
19.8 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
19.8 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
19.8 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
14.0 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
14.1 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
19.5 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Jude The Obscure
19.5 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
19.5 km
Historic Oxford pub famed for its Inklings literary heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent local ales since 1613.
The Rickety Press
19.6 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
19.6 km
Experience Oxford’s best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at LJ - Love Jericho, where expert mixology meets a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Turf Tavern
19.6 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
19.6 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
19.7 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
19.9 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Grapes
19.9 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
19.9 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
19.9 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
20.0 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
19.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
20.0 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
20.2 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
20.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
20.2 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
20.2 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
24.7 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
Garudaa
29.2 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
30.4 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
TWC
31.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Elysium
39.1 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
39.1 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
NB's
39.2 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Club43
39.2 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
The Platform
39.3 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo 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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
