Kenley RAF Airfield Heritage Festival

Kenley is the most complete surviving Battle of Britain fighter airfield as well as being home to some rare flora and fauna. It’s also a wonderful open space that’s enjoyed by families all year round for cycling, dog walking and generally getting out and about in the fresh air while taking in the fantastic views over the Surrey Hills.

The day will be based at the historic Portcullis Club which dates back to WW1 and is home to the local branch of the Royal Air Forces Association. It’s an atmospheric building with paintings and memorabilia from the Battle of Britain and several local interest groups and veterans will be there to show you around. Refreshments and food will be available throughout the day and you can also hear about the exciting £1m project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund to restore, conserve and preserve this important piece of British history.

Outside we will be running guided tours of the airfield pointing out the key heritage features and telling the story of the RAF’s heroic defence of the UK in the Battle of Britain. At the same you can explore the surrounding woodlands, enjoying the first Spring flowers and perhaps spotting some of the rare species that live there today. You’ll also have an opportunity to visit several bomb shelters and learn about the vital role Kenley played in defeating the Luftwaffe in 1940.