Biggin Hill is a suburban area in the London Borough of Bromley, situated on high ground near the southern edge of Greater London. The area is internationally associated with the former RAF Biggin Hill station, which played a significant role during the Battle of Britain in the Second World War. Its elevated position and relatively open surroundings have given the area a more rural character than much of London. Today Biggin Hill is primarily residential but remains strongly connected with aviation history and the surrounding countryside.
Biggin Hill: Historical sights and information
Facts about Biggin Hill
- Latitude:
- 51.312705
- Longitude:
- 0.034275
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°19' N, 00°02' E
The historical and tourist importance of the area
Biggin Hill Memorial Museum and the former RAF station are closely associated with the area's aviation heritage and commemorate the pilots and personnel who served here. The annual Biggin Hill International Airshow is a major event for aviation enthusiasts when held. The surrounding North Downs provide scenic walking and cycling opportunities, while nearby Down House, the former home of Charles Darwin, is an important historic attraction. Westerham, Chartwell and the Kent countryside are also within easy reach, offering further heritage and landscape attractions.
Food and when to visit
Biggin Hill has local cafés, restaurants, pubs and shops, while nearby Bromley and Croydon provide much larger retail and dining options. Traditional British food and international cuisine are both widely available. Late spring through summer is particularly attractive for exploring the countryside and attending aviation-related events, while the surrounding heritage attractions can be visited throughout the year. Biggin Hill is a useful base for travellers who want to combine London with the landscapes and historic villages of Kent and the North Downs.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Biggin Hill.