In January 2019, Biggin Hill Memorial Museum opened its doors to the public for the first time. The museum protects, gathers and makes known the stories of RAF Biggin Hill during the Second World War. It remembers the life and work, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served there, and the community who lived nearby.
About the project
There has long been a wish to remember those who served at Biggin Hill in the Second World War. Biggin Hill Memorial Museum was conceived in response to this wish and was made possible with the support of National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Ministry of Defence and Bromley Council. In total, £5.3 million was raised to realise this important memorial which will safeguard St George’s RAF Chapel of Remembrance for generations to come.
Building and conservation work began on site in September 2017. The new building is a contemporary and sensitive design that wraps around the chapel, acting as a visual frame and symbolically protecting it. By removing a 1990’s annex, the scheme has restored the chapel to its original 1950’s design.
The museum showcases the remarkable stories of men and women caught up in the Battle of Britain through the lens of four themes – Early Years, Station Life, Community Life and Remembering. A wealth of objects including letters, photographs, paintings, uniforms and flying jackets, a Browning machine gun, ‘scramble’ and ‘victory’ bells, brings these personal stories to life.
The museum is independently governed by the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum Trust, and managed by a team of staff and volunteers.
Admission
The museum is open for general admission Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm with last admission at 4pm.
The Nightingale Café is open 10am to 4pm, and admission to the café is free.
Admission and membership prices.
Facilities
The museum is home to the Nightingale Café which offers high quality, light refreshment for those visiting the exhibition and the general public.
It also benefits from:
- Sheltered buggy and cycle parking
- Baby changing
- Outdoor terrace
- Picnic area
- Shop
- Wifi
Further information
Find out more about visiting and supporting the museum by visiting the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum website.