Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar: The Living Legacy of the Spitfire
Experience the living history of WWII aviation at Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, home to the world’s largest collection of airworthy Spitfires and restoration expertise.
Located at 204 Churchill Way, Biggin Hill, Westerham, the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar is a unique aviation hub dedicated to restoring and preserving iconic WWII aircraft, especially the legendary Spitfire. Visitors can witness skilled engineers restoring aircraft, explore a collection of airworthy Spitfires, Hurricanes, and rare warbirds, and immerse themselves in the rich history of one of Britain's most famous fighter bases.
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
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance as visits are by appointment and groups are kept small for an intimate experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and standing in a working hangar environment.
- Bring a camera to capture close-up views of meticulously restored aircraft and vintage memorabilia.
- Consider upgrading to a Spitfire flight experience for an unforgettable aerial adventure.
- Check weather conditions and tour availability, as some activities may be seasonal or weather dependent.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central London to Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar takes approximately 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is free and available onsite, but space can be limited during events. The route involves suburban roads and some rural stretches.
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Train and Taxi
Take a train from London Victoria to Orpington (about 20–30 minutes), then a taxi from Orpington station to the hangar (approximately 15 minutes). Taxi fares typically range from £15 to £25.
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Bus and Walk
From Orpington station, take local bus service 320 towards Westerham and alight near Biggin Hill Airport. Then walk about 10 minutes along Churchill Way to reach the hangar. Bus services run hourly; check schedules in advance.
Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar
Aviation History Rooted in Biggin Hill
The Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar is situated on the historic grounds of RAF Biggin Hill, a key fighter station during the Battle of Britain and a pivotal site in the defense of London during World War II. Originally established in 1916 for wireless communications experiments, the airfield quickly became a frontline base for night and day fighter squadrons. This rich heritage forms the backdrop for the hangar’s mission to preserve and celebrate the legacy of the Spitfire and other iconic aircraft.Restoration Excellence and Living Museum
Founded in 2011 to restore a single Spitfire, the hangar has grown into the world’s largest Spitfire restoration facility. It houses a squadron’s worth of airworthy Spitfires, alongside Hurricanes, a Harvard, a Piper Cub, and a rare Messerschmitt 109E. Visitors can observe expert engineers using traditional techniques such as riveting and panel work, witnessing the meticulous process of returning these historic planes to flying condition. The hangar operates as a living museum, where restoration projects at various stages are visible, and the sounds and smells of a working aviation workshop bring history vividly to life.Immersive Visitor Experience
Tours of the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar offer an intimate look at the aircraft and their stories. Knowledgeable guides share detailed histories of the planes, the pilots who flew them, and the ground crews who maintained them. The collection includes artifacts like Merlin engines, vintage cars, motorcycles, and WWII memorabilia. Visitors can even sit in the cockpit of a Spitfire, gaining a tactile connection to the past. The hangar also hosts flights in two-seater Spitfires, providing unforgettable aerial experiences over the Kent countryside.Stories of Valor and Legacy
The hangar is more than a restoration workshop; it is a tribute to the people behind the planes. It honors pilots such as Squadron Leader Tony Gaze and Claude Weaver, the youngest Allied Ace of WWII. The facility also embraces the complex history of the war, welcoming veterans and even former adversaries who share a mutual respect for the Spitfire’s legacy. This human element enriches the visitor experience, connecting aircraft to the courageous stories of those who built, maintained, and flew them.Unique Collection and Historical Significance
Among the prized exhibits is a Messerschmitt Bf 109E, believed to have been flown by famed German ace Hans Joachim Marseille, highlighting the hangar’s unique role in preserving both Allied and Axis aviation history. The hangar’s location on the original Biggin Hill airfield adds profound significance, as visitors may witness Spitfires taking to the skies from arguably the most historically appropriate venue in the world.Facilities and Accessibility
The hangar offers modern amenities including accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and free parking. While it is a working engineering environment with some noise and safety considerations, it remains welcoming to families, aviation enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Wheelchair access is available, though the environment is best suited to visitors aged 12 and over due to the nature of the site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
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Bellot Memorial Greenwich
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Trafalgar Tavern
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Anchor Iron Wharf
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Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
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David Bowie Memorial
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All Saints' Church, Wimbledon
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North Greenwich Pier
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City Hall
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The ACE Programme Charity
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King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
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The Captain Kidd
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Execution Dock House
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St George Wharf
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Execution Dock
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Unmissable attractions to see
Biggin Hill Memorial Museum
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Home of Charles Darwin - Down House
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Chartwell
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The George Inn
10.0 km
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Selhurst Park Stadium
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Historic Selhurst Park Stadium in South London, home to Crystal Palace FC since 1924, blending rich football heritage with evolving modern charm.
Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation
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Discover majestic birds of prey and engaging wildlife experiences in Kent’s award-winning sanctuary and family-friendly refuge.
Deer Park
14.0 km
Explore 1,000 acres of historic deer park, Tudor grandeur, and natural beauty at Knole Park in Sevenoaks, Kent.
Brands Hatch
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Experience the thrill and history of Brands Hatch, Kent’s iconic motor racing circuit with legendary corners and world-class events.
Blackheath
15.6 km
Historic village charm meets expansive green spaces in Blackheath, a peaceful haven within vibrant Southeast London.
Hever Castle & Gardens
16.4 km
Explore the enchanting Tudor castle and 125 acres of award-winning gardens that tell the story of Anne Boleyn’s childhood and England’s royal past.
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
16.6 km
Explore a stunning Georgian villa housing the Wernher Collection, a world-class display of medieval and Renaissance art on the edge of Greenwich Park.
House of Dreams Museum
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A mesmerizing mosaic-filled home museum in London, where Stephen Wright’s life, dreams, and memories are transformed into vibrant art.
Greenwich Park
16.9 km
Historic Royal Park with panoramic London views, iconic landmarks, tranquil gardens, and rich maritime heritage in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.
Royal Observatory Greenwich
16.9 km
Home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian, where the world’s time begins and one foot can stand in each hemisphere.
The Old Royal Observatory Garden
17.0 km
A tranquil garden steeped in the heritage of British astronomy, offering stunning views and a serene escape within historic Greenwich Park.
Essential places to dine
The Hill
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The Prince of Greenwich Pub
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Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
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Pho Street
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Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
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Goddards at Greenwich
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Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sefa Restaurant
17.8 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
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Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
The Clink Restaurant Brixton
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Midpoint Restaurant
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The Courtesan
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Billingsgate Market
20.3 km
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
Brunswick House
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Restaurant Story
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Mercato Metropolitano
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A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Boutique Vintage
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The Junk Shop
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Joli Vintage Living
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Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
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Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Arc Angel Boutique London
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Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
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Made in Greenwich
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Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Rare Books & Curios
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Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
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Painted hall gift shop
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Broadway Market Tooting
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Brixton Village
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Unique Store
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Bluewater Shopping Centre
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Cocktail Party
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Drink At Bob's
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Kings Arms
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Mindful Mixology
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The Gipsy Moth
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Greenwich Town Social Club
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The Shrub and Shutter
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Dogstar
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Brixton Brewery Tap Room
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Prince of Wales
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Trinity Arms
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Hatch Club
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The Venue
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Phonox
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Club 701
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Infernos Nightclub
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American Express Invites Lounge
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LA Lounge
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(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
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Corsica Studios
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The Clapham Grand
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Lightbox London
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- 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
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly