Did you know that...
This South East London area sits at 690 ft above sea level. It is among London’s highest points. Aperfield is the historic name of Biggin Hill. St Mark’s Church is a landmark of the area. The church was built in 1950 by a team of volunteers. The materials used in the construction came from the demolished All Saints Church in North Peckham. Architect Richard Gilbert Scott designed the church. He is known for designing two other Grade II listed churches. Rev Vivian Symons supervised the volunteers and did some of the decorations.
London Biggin Hill Airport carried a crucial role in World War II Battle of Britain. The airport housed the operation room for Operation Crossbow. The west part of the airport belongs to former Formula 1 manager, Bernie Ecclestone. This part of the airport has several Grade II listed buildings. The Biggin Hill International Air Fair was Europe’s largest privately organized air show and one of the largest in the world. It was held annually for 48 years starting in 1963 and ending in 2010 when it was canceled. The Biggin Hill airfield is a popular location among paranormal fans. The old World War II airbase is said to be a hunted location.
In 2008, a Cessna Citation I small business jet took off from Biggin Hill airport. It carried five people including racing drivers Richard Lloyd and David Leslie. Shortly after taking off, the pilots reported engine vibrations and requested permission for emergency landing. The plane rapidly lost altitude and crashed on Romsey Close. There were no survivors. An investigation concluded that technical issues were the cause of the accident. Charles Darwin School secondary school is the most southerly education facility in London. This TN16 area is connected to the National Rail system through Hayes, Oxted, Orpington, and Bromley South stations.