· GB

Biggin Hill

Biggin Hill, Croydon, United Kingdom

Biggin Hill, located in Croydon, United Kingdom, is a charming village with a rich history and a plethora of attractions that make it a must-visit destination for tourists. Most notably known for its historical significa…

#Aviation history#Airfield#Pilots#WWII#Rural setting

1/7

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Biggin Hill.

Top Hotels in Biggin Hill

Top Flights to Biggin Hill

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Biggin Hill.

Tours

Explore Biggin Hill's Aviation History

Discover the rich aviation history of Biggin Hill, a key strategic airfield during the Battle of Britain.

Visit Charles Darwin's House

Explore the home of Charles Darwin, where he wrote 'On the Origin of Species'.

Shopping

Shopping at Biggin Hill

Explore local shops and boutiques offering a variety of unique products.

Outdoor

Scenic Walks in Biggin Hill

Enjoy outdoor trails and stunning landscapes around Biggin Hill, perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Golfing in Biggin Hill

Enjoy a round of golf amidst the beautiful landscapes of Biggin Hill.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Biggin Hill.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Biggin Hill

Jan

6°1°

Feb

7°1°

Mar

10°3°

Apr

13°5°

May

17°8°

Jun

20°11°

Jul

22°13°

Aug

22°13°

Sep

19°11°

Oct

15°8°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

7°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Biggin Hill.

What people love

Biggin Hill, located in Croydon, United Kingdom, is a charming destination with several pros for travelers:

Historical significance: Biggin Hill is famous for its World War II history, particularly as a key RAF fighter station during the Battle of Britain. History enthusiasts can visit the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum to learn more about this important chapter in British history.
Aviation heritage: Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate Biggin Hill's rich aviation heritage. The Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar offers a glimpse into the world of vintage aircraft, and visitors can even take flight in a historic plane for a truly unique experience.
Natural beauty: The surrounding countryside of Biggin Hill offers picturesque landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and cycling. Visitors can explore nearby parks and nature reserves for a peaceful retreat from the city.
Accessibility: Biggin Hill is conveniently located near London, making it easily accessible for travelers looking to explore both the city and the countryside. The area is well-connected by public transportation, making it a convenient destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Overall, Biggin Hill offers a blend of history, aviation, natural beauty, and accessibility, making it a compelling destination for a wide range of travelers.

What to know

Biggin Hill, located in Croydon, United Kingdom, is a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts due to its historic airport and airfield. However, there are some potential drawbacks to traveling to Biggin Hill that visitors should be aware of:

Limited accommodation options: Biggin Hill is a small town, and as such, there may be limited choices for accommodations such as hotels or guesthouses. Visitors may need to look for lodging in nearby towns or cities.
Remote location: Biggin Hill is located in a relatively remote area, which may make it less convenient for travelers who prefer to be close to major cities or attractions. Transportation options may be limited, and it could take longer to reach other destinations in the region.
Limited dining and entertainment options: As a smaller town, Biggin Hill may have fewer dining and entertainment options compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and nightlife may need to travel to nearby areas.
Weather considerations: Like much of the UK, the weather in Biggin Hill can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and overcast skies. Visitors should be prepared for potentially damp and chilly weather, especially during the winter months.
Noise from the airport: Biggin Hill Airport is an active airport, and the noise from aircraft taking off and landing may be a concern for some visitors, especially those staying nearby.

Overall, while Biggin Hill offers a unique aviation experience and a glimpse into history, travelers should consider these potential drawbacks when planning a trip to the area.

Biggin Hill, located in the London Borough of Bromley in Greater London, England, is a town with a rich aviation history, primarily due to its airfield, Biggin Hill Airport. Here's a detailed history of Biggin Hill:

Early History

Origins: The area known as Biggin Hill was historically part of the ancient parish of Cudham, and it was predominantly rural and agricultural.

Development of the Airfield

1917: The Royal Flying Corps established an airfield at Biggin Hill during World War I. It was initially used for the defense of London against German Zeppelin raids.
World War II: Biggin Hill is perhaps best known for its crucial role during World War II. It was one of the most important fighter stations during the Battle of Britain in 1940. The airfield was a base for Spitfire and Hurricane squadrons, which played a vital role in defending London and the southeast of England from Luftwaffe attacks.

Post-War Period

RAF Biggin Hill: After World War II, the airfield continued to operate as a Royal Air Force station. It was a hub of significant military activity during the Cold War.
1958: The RAF station was closed to flying operations and became a non-flying station in 1958, although it continued to be used for other military purposes.

Transition to Civil Aviation

1960s: The airfield began to transition to civilian use, and in 1974, it was officially closed as an RAF station.
Biggin Hill Airport: Today, Biggin Hill Airport operates as a general aviation airport. It is used for business aviation and is home to various aviation-related businesses.

Significant Events and Figures

Battle of Britain: The airfield's role in the Battle of Britain is commemorated annually. Many veterans and aviation enthusiasts visit the site to remember the bravery of the pilots who flew from Biggin Hill.
Historical Figures: Many notable RAF pilots flew from Biggin Hill during the war, including Group Captain Sailor Malan, one of the top aces of the Battle of Britain.

Landmarks

St. George's RAF Chapel of Remembrance: Located on the outskirts of the airport, this chapel was built to commemorate those who served at Biggin Hill during World War II. It serves as a memorial to the airmen who flew from the airfield, and it's a place of historical significance.
Biggin Hill Memorial Museum: Opened in recent years, the museum aims to preserve the history of the airfield and its role in Britain's aviation history.

Modern Day

Biggin Hill remains a vibrant community with a strong connection to its aviation past. The annual Festival of Flight at Biggin Hill Airport celebrates this legacy, attracting visitors from around the world.

Biggin Hill's history is deeply intertwined with Britain's wartime aviation efforts, making it a site of national historical significance.