Car Hire Biggin Hill

The hum of a light aircraft overhead is often your first clue you’ve arrived in Biggin Hill—a town shaped by its skies and perched on the edge of the North Downs—with a population count of 11,000. Nestled between open farmland and ancient woodland, it holds a rare mix of airfield heritage and open access to nature.

The A233 brings you straight in and it’s an easy turn off from the M25 if you’re looping in from Pratts Bottom. Drivers tend to appreciate how accessible Biggin Hill is—ideal if you’re planning a day out without relying on trains. Spring brings bright mornings and lively woodland trails, while late summer afternoons often stretch well past dinnertime under wide skies.

Attractions In Biggin Hill

Beyond its aviation past, Biggin Hill offers a quieter kind of discovery—estate gardens, open commons and walking routes that trace across Kentish ridges into old market towns. History isn’t always signposted here but it lingers in woodlands, corners of museums and names etched in local memory.

Titsey Place

We made our way to Titsey Place on the edge of the North Downs, where Georgian architecture meets wide open views. There’s an understated charm to it—manicured lawns, walking trails in the woods and a tearoom that made for a proper pause. Open from 1pm to 5pm on Fridays, weekends and bank holidays, it’s best visited with time to wander.

The Coccolith

While driving in from Chislehurst, we veered off near Tatsfield and spotted The Coccolith—a permanent sculpture with sweeping views over the Downs. The viewpoint alone would’ve made the stop worth it but the artwork offers a reflective moment amid the landscape. It’s open 24 hours and parking is free along the nearby lane.

Selsdon Wood

Approaching from Penge, this was an easy first stop. Selsdon Wood is a blend of old-growth trees, bracken paths and wide-open glades. Kids ran ahead, dogs bounded through the undergrowth and we found ourselves slowing down without really trying. Open year-round.

Hillcroft Corner

An ideal detour for drivers coming from Beckenham, Hillcroft Corner in nearby Caterham is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spots. A curve in the road opens to views over wooded valleys—no café, no fanfare, just a place to pull in and breathe for a moment.

Saltbox Hill

We nearly missed the sign for this one—it’s easy to walk past. But Saltbox Hill is worth slowing for. This chalk grassland reserve clings to the slope just outside town, with a steep descent that rewards you with clear views over the valley. It’s a great spot for butterflies in summer and frost-covered grass in winter.

East Surrey Museum

During a visit to Sidcup, we found time to loop back through Caterham and stop at the East Surrey Museum. Housed in a former fire station, its rooms are small but packed with local finds—Roman pottery, Victorian tools and curious odds from private collections. Open 10am to 5pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Limpsfield Common

Tucked within easy reach of Petts Wood, Limpsfield Common feels like a patchwork of old forest stories. We found whimsical wooden dens built by hand and little plaques explaining how the land has shifted over time. Ideal for families looking to stretch their legs or spot birds.

Down House

This spot draws a lot of interest from people in Bromley. Down House, once home to Charles Darwin, is preserved beautifully. Inside, you can walk the same halls he did while developing his theories and the surrounding garden paths are still tended to in his style. Open daily from 10am to 4pm and the car park is free for visitors.

Westerham Golf Club

We planned a morning outing from Crystal Palace and ended up at Westerham Golf Club—not just for golf but for the clubhouse views. Even if you’re not playing a round, the café is open and the terrace makes a good base for meeting friends. Opens at 7:30am weekdays and from 6am on weekends.

Toys Hill

We ended our day at Toys Hill—a National Trust area that mixes forest paths with wide panoramas. It’s easy to loop through short trails or commit to a longer route. The silence here, broken only by birds and the crunch of leaves, left a lasting impression. It’s open 24 hours and free to roam.

Winding Down In Biggin Hill

We paused for coffee at The Lookout Coffee Shop inside the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum—a relaxed spot with views over the airfield and a warm welcome. For an overnight stay, Hurst Farm B&B in nearby Crockham Hill offered countryside views, fresh breakfasts and an easy drive back into town. If you prefer your own space, self-catering cottages and holiday homes in the surrounding hills are plentiful—a good fit for anyone planning a weekend of quiet walks and open-road exploring.