Now you are down here in the Battle of Britain country, as well as flying with us it would be a good idea to visit the Kent Battle of Britain Museum at Hawkinge near Folkestone. Also in the Folkestone area, you would certainly appreciate visiting the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel – le – Ferne. This is the National Memorial to the Few, and having paid tribute through your flight, you will certainly want to go and find out more about the Few and their endeavours, remembered at this iconic Memorial. The Memorial is only a 15 minutes’ drive from Hawkinge, entry is free, but please donate generously – the site is run by volunteers.
For those who really can’t get enough time with the Spitfire and Hurricane, let’s point you in the direction of Manston, another ex-Battle of Britain airfield! Here you find two museums – the Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum, and the RAF Manston Museum. Manston is steeped in history – not only were Spitfires and Hurricanes based here, but also the attack on the German battle fleet with six Swordfish aircraft (Operation Fuller) was launched from here.
Manston was the airfield from which the Gloster Meteor, the first operational jet fighter in the RAF was first flown on active service. Manston is approximately a 30 minutes’ drive from the Battle of Britain Memorial.
Airfix – the home of sticky fingers!
Still have time for more? Well there is one more treat in store! The Hornby Airfix Centre, near Ramsgate. If like many of us your interest in the Spitfire was initiated through building Airfix kits, then a visit to this excellent place is a must. Not only can you buy all the latest kits and tackle, you can visit the display areas and see kits that have been made properly! There is an excellent café there serving refreshments and lunches – we noticed a good selection of traditional puds on offer on the last visit! The Centre is approximately a 20 minutes’ drive from Manston.
Where else to go and where to stay?
Kent is a truly magical place to come and stay awhile. Not only is the place itself stunningly beautiful, it enjoys a good climate, excellent hotels, pubs and restaurants – Canterbury is a World Heritage Site, and with castles and vineyards aplenty, what more could we entice you with?