During World War II, England became a hub for aviation innovation and military activity, with countless airstrips and airfields scattered across the countryside. These sites, many of which have faded from memory, played a vital role in the war effort, serving as bases for fighter squadrons, bomber fleets, and training operations. Today, these airstrips remain as relics of a time when aviation was at the heart of the nation’s defense. From cracked runways hidden in forests to repurposed airfields now used for farming, England’s forgotten airstrips offer a fascinating glimpse into history. To explore how these locations align with modern aviation routes, platforms like Flightradar24 provide a unique perspective, linking past and present through real-time flight tracking.
The Role of Airstrips in WWII
The outbreak of World War II in 1939 saw England transform into a strategic stronghold for Allied air forces. The need for quick construction of airstrips led to the establishment of hundreds of temporary and permanent airfields across England’s counties. These sites were strategically placed near coastlines, cities, and critical infrastructure to support the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF).
Key Functions of WWII Airstrips
- Bomber Bases: Many airfields, such as RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, were home to bomber squadrons carrying out missions over Europe.
- Fighter Command: Airstrips like RAF Biggin Hill in Kent were pivotal during the Battle of Britain, housing fighter planes like the Spitfire and Hurricane.
- Training Grounds: Counties like Suffolk and Norfolk hosted training facilities for new pilots and crews, preparing them for the complexities of wartime aviation.
- Transport Hubs: Some airfields served as logistical centers for moving troops and supplies, including food, ammunition, and medical equipment.
Forgotten Airstrips in England’s Counties
As the war ended, many airstrips were abandoned, left to deteriorate as nature reclaimed the land. However, remnants of these sites still exist, hidden in the rolling landscapes of England’s counties.
1. Lincolnshire: The Bomber County
Known as “Bomber County” during the war, Lincolnshire was home to dozens of airfields. While some, like RAF Scampton, are still operational, others have been lost to time:
- RAF Stenigot: Once a radar station and airfield, the site now features decaying structures and overgrown runways, offering a haunting reminder of its role in radar communication.
- RAF Coleby Grange: Used by bomber squadrons, this airstrip now lies beneath farmland, with only faint traces of its existence visible from above.
2. Norfolk: A Hotspot for the USAAF
Norfolk hosted numerous airstrips used by the United States Army Air Forces:
- RAF Horsham St. Faith: Now the site of Norwich Airport, this former airbase was a key location for American bomber operations.
- RAF Deopham Green: Abandoned after the war, it is now a peaceful patch of countryside, with remnants of its control tower and runways still visible to history enthusiasts.
3. Kent: Defending the Skies
Kent played a critical role during the Battle of Britain:
- RAF Hawkinge: Once a frontline airfield, it is now a museum dedicated to its wartime history.
- RAF West Malling: Parts of this airfield have been developed into residential areas, but sections of the original runway remain intact.
Aviation Relics in Unlikely Places
Beyond the well-known airfields, there are lesser-known relics scattered across England’s counties. These forgotten sites offer intriguing stories and unique opportunities for exploration.
1. Overgrown Runways
Many abandoned airstrips have been overtaken by nature. In Essex, for instance, parts of RAF Chipping Ongar’s runways are now hidden beneath fields and hedgerows, with only aerial views revealing their original layout.
2. Repurposed Airfields
Several airstrips have found new life serving other purposes:
- RAF Rufforth in Yorkshire: Now a glider club, this airfield retains much of its wartime infrastructure, including hangars and taxiways.
- RAF Lasham in Hampshire: Converted into a civilian airfield, it is a hub for gliding and light aviation enthusiasts.
3. Forgotten Infrastructure
Control towers, hangars, and bomb shelters often stand as the last remnants of these sites. Exploring counties like Cambridgeshire reveals eerie structures, such as the derelict control tower at RAF Upwood.
Preserving History: Efforts to Document and Protect
The preservation of these sites is crucial for honoring the legacy of those who served during WWII. Many organizations and enthusiasts are working to document and protect these historical landmarks.
Heritage Sites and Museums
- Imperial War Museum Duxford: Located in Cambridgeshire, this museum is housed on a former RAF airfield and showcases wartime aircraft and exhibits.
- RAF Museum Cosford: In Shropshire, this museum highlights the technological advancements and sacrifices of the RAF.
Community Projects
Local history groups in counties like Suffolk and Lincolnshire are actively cataloging abandoned airstrips, ensuring their stories are not lost. Efforts include restoring control towers and creating memorials.
Role of Modern Technology
Aviation enthusiasts use tools like Flightradar24 to study historical flight paths and compare them with modern routes. By overlaying WWII maps with current flight data, they can identify how these forgotten airstrips influenced today’s aviation landscape.
The Connection to Modern Aviation
While many WWII airstrips have been forgotten, their influence on modern aviation remains significant. The techniques, strategies, and infrastructure developed during the war laid the groundwork for advancements in aviation technology.
1. Strategic Placement of Airports
Several of today’s airports evolved from wartime airstrips:
- Heathrow Airport: Initially used as a military airfield, it is now one of the busiest airports in the world.
- Birmingham Airport: Originally an RAF base, it has transformed into a major commercial hub.
2. Runway Design
The layout of WWII airstrips, including longer runways and dispersed taxiways, set standards still used in airport design today.
3. Aerial Mapping
The aerial reconnaissance missions conducted during the war advanced the field of aerial photography and mapping. These techniques are now integral to modern flight planning and monitoring.
Exploring England’s Forgotten Airstrips
For those interested in history, aviation, or adventure, exploring England’s forgotten airstrips is a rewarding experience. Many of these sites are accessible and offer a tangible connection to the past.
Tips for Exploring
- Use Flight Tracking Tools: Platforms like Flightradar24 can help identify the locations of former airstrips by overlaying modern flight routes with historical data.
- Research Local Histories: Visit local archives or museums for information about specific airfields in the counties you wish to explore.
- Respect Private Property: Many abandoned airstrips are on private land, so always seek permission before visiting.
Recommended Sites to Visit
- RAF Thorpe Abbotts (Norfolk): Home to the 100th Bomb Group Museum, it preserves the history of American airmen during WWII.
- RAF Elvington (Yorkshire): Now the Yorkshire Air Museum, this site offers an immersive experience with restored aircraft and exhibitions.
England’s forgotten airstrips are more than just historical landmarks—they are stories waiting to be rediscovered. By visiting these sites, we honor the sacrifices and ingenuity of those who shaped the course of history. Through tools like Flightradar24 and the efforts of preservationists, these relics of WWII aviation continue to inspire and educate future generations.