07/06/2016
London Biggin Hill Airport, a renowned hub for private and business aviation, is more than just a runway; it's a gateway that often requires efficient and comfortable ground transport for its discerning clientele. Whether you're flying in for a crucial meeting or departing for a well-deserved break, understanding your transport options is paramount. This article delves into the specific services available, addressing common queries about heli shuttles and providing an in-depth look at a unique, scenic way to approach the airport on foot.
For those seeking seamless and luxurious ground transportation to or from London Biggin Hill, the airport proudly offers a dedicated chauffeur service. It's a common misconception that an airport might offer a heli shuttle for short distances; however, the emphasis at Biggin Hill, based on the provided information, is on an exceptional road-based corporate car service, ensuring your journey is as smooth and comfortable as your flight.
This superlative quality service is expertly operated by Lloyds of Bromley, a name synonymous with excellence in corporate car services for many years. Their long-standing reputation is built on reliability, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. When you book with Lloyds of Bromley, you're not just arranging a ride; you're securing a premium travel experience designed to complement the high standards expected by passengers utilising a private aviation hub like Biggin Hill.
Lloyds of Bromley boasts a diverse fleet of prestige vehicles, meticulously maintained to the highest standards. Their selection includes the epitome of luxury and comfort: the Mercedes S-Class. Renowned for its elegant design, sophisticated interior, and smooth ride, the S-Class provides an ideal environment for business travellers needing to work on the go or for those simply wishing to relax in unparalleled comfort. For groups or families, or when additional luggage capacity is required, they also offer a range of Mercedes V-Class MPVs. These multi-purpose vehicles combine spaciousness with executive-level comfort, ensuring every passenger enjoys a relaxed and productive journey.
Choosing the London Biggin Hill Chauffeur Service means opting for convenience, privacy, and peace of mind. Your professional chauffeur will ensure timely arrivals and departures, navigating the local routes with expert knowledge, allowing you to focus on your schedule or simply unwind. It's the ideal solution for those who value efficiency and luxury, ensuring your ground transfer is an integral part of your executive travel experience.
Beyond the Runway: A Unique Walking Route to Biggin Hill
While many travellers opt for the comfort and speed of a chauffeur service, London Biggin Hill is also accessible via more unconventional and scenic routes for the adventurous and outdoors-minded individual. The area surrounding the airport is rich in natural beauty and offers several walking paths. One such detailed route provides an immersive experience, allowing you to connect with the picturesque Kent countryside before reaching your destination.
For those wondering, "How do I get to Biggin Hill in a truly unique way?", consider the Cudham, Luxted & Berry's Green walking route. This particular path offers a delightful journey through charming villages and verdant landscapes, culminating near the airport. It's a testament to the diverse ways one can approach this significant aviation landmark.
Detailed Walking Route: Cudham, Luxted & Berry's Green
This captivating walk spans a distance of approximately 3.9 Miles and is estimated to take around 1.75 hours to complete, making it a substantial yet rewarding trek. For navigation, it's highly recommended to consult OS Map: Explorer 147, specifically starting at grid reference TQ446597.
Starting Point and Parking
Your journey begins at the car park at Cudham recreation ground. To find it, look on the left just past the Blacksmith’s Arms when approaching from Green Street Green. Conveniently, there is no charge for parking here, though it's crucial to note that closing times for the car park vary significantly throughout the year, ranging from as early as 4:30 PM in December to 8:30 PM in May. Plan your walk accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.
The Path Unfolds: From Cudham to Luxted
Leave the car park at its north end, near the noticeboard, and follow the asphalt path that leads past the tennis court and toilets. Upon reaching the churchyard, bear left, walking past the church and into Church Approach. Descend to Cudham Lane and exercise caution while crossing into Church Hill. At the junction, bear left, but almost immediately take the footpath on your right. Crucially, do not take the path straight ahead; instead, turn sharp left down a set of steps, which are waymarked for the Berrys Green Circular Walk/Cudham Circular Walk. Proceed through a gate and continue downhill on the right-hand side of the field. Maintain your course straight on down to the valley bottom and then ascend the other side into a wood. Climb through the wood and between fences until you reach Single Street. Cross this road and take the path situated between houses, leading into a field. Turn sharp right here and follow the path along the top edges of the fields. Soon, you'll find yourself walking between fences until you reach the road at Luxted.
Continuing to Berry's Green and Beyond
At Luxted, turn left and carefully follow the road. When the road soon bears right, ensure you keep left, heading down Birdhouse Lane. Follow this lane downhill, then up the other side, and through what was formerly the Scout Activity Centre. Go through the gap to the left of a white metal gate marked “No Vehicles.” Soon, the track will narrow, becoming a path between hedges. You will then emerge into open fields; follow the left-hand edges of these fields until you reach Jail Lane. Turn right onto Jail Lane, taking great care and utilising the left-hand side of the road for maximum visibility, until you spot a footpath sign on your left, indicating "Biggin Hill ¾m." Take this path along the edge of the field, passing a copse on your left and crossing a stile. Continue along the right-hand edge of the field for a short distance to another stile. *Do not* cross this second stile. Instead, turn left and head uphill with a fence on your right. Follow the waymarks, ignoring any right turns, until you reach the asphalt drives leading to Foal Farm and a golf club. Cross these drives carefully onto the golf course and follow the distinct yellow waymarks across the golf course towards a stile situated just to the left of a copse (once you've crossed the bund, aim right of the house ahead). After leaving the golf course, follow the path between fences to the road at Berry’s Green. Go straight across into Restavon Park, an estate characterised by prefabricated homes. Follow the drive downhill, and shortly after it bends to the left, take the signposted path on your right, which leads between homes and into a wood. Take the first left along a broad track. As you near a lane, bear right along a permissive path between fences. After the path begins to climb, take the left fork, ascending steeply to a stile. Cross this stile and continue to climb steeply until you reach a seat offering fine views across the valley. After taking a moment to admire the scenery, continue upwards to join Cudham Lane, directly opposite the Blacksmith’s Arms. Turn right, and you will shortly reach the car park where your walk began, completing a fulfilling circular route.
Points of Interest Along the Way
This walking route is not just a means of transport; it's an experience rich with local history and natural beauty:
- Wildflower Meadow: A significant section of this walk traverses grassland that was once arable fields. This area is now managed to grow hay rich in local species, aiming to recreate the typical grasslands of the North Downs. Keep an eye out for species such as the common knapweed and wild carrot. Historically, the purplish-red flowers at the centre of the wild carrot floret were believed by the herbalist Nicholas Culpeper to aid conception when boiled in wine and consumed.
- Downe Camp: You will pass near the historic Downe Camp, a 66-acre site purchased in 1929 by Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouts, specifically for training leaders. From 1933 onwards, it served as an adventure camp for Scouts. In 2020, the site was put up for sale by the Scouts to help mitigate a financial crisis exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
This detailed route offers a unique perspective on the journey to London Biggin Hill, appealing to those who appreciate outdoor exploration and the beauty of the Kent countryside. It’s important to remember that this is a specific recreational route, and while it leads to the vicinity of Biggin Hill, it’s distinct from direct public transport or vehicle access points.
Supporting Footpath Maintenance
The integrity and accessibility of such beautiful walking routes are maintained by dedicated volunteers. Organisations like the Ramblers' in Kent work tirelessly to ensure that public footpaths are well-protected and maintained for everyone to enjoy. If you encounter any issues during your walk, reporting them to the relevant authorities, such as [email protected], helps these volunteers continue their vital work. Their efforts ensure these paths remain open and enjoyable for independent walkers and organised groups alike, preserving the right to roam and explore the natural landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Biggin Hill Transport
To further clarify your travel options to and from London Biggin Hill, here are answers to some common questions:
- Does London Biggin Hill offer a heli shuttle service?
- Based on the information provided, London Biggin Hill offers a premium ground chauffeur service operated by Lloyds of Bromley, focusing on corporate car services. There is no mention of a dedicated heli shuttle service in the provided details.
- What kind of vehicles does Lloyds of Bromley offer for the chauffeur service?
- Lloyds of Bromley offers a variety of prestige vehicles, including a selection of Mercedes S-Class models for ultimate luxury and comfort, and Mercedes V-Class MPVs for spacious group or family travel.
- Is there parking available at the start of the Cudham walking route?
- Yes, there is a car park at Cudham recreation ground, located just past the Blacksmith’s Arms when approaching from Green Street Green. Parking is free, but be aware that closing times vary seasonally from 4:30 PM in December to 8:30 PM in May.
- How long is the Cudham, Luxted & Berry's Green walking route to Biggin Hill?
- The walking route is approximately 3.9 miles (6.3 km) long and is estimated to take about 1.75 hours to complete at a moderate pace.
- Are there any points of interest along the walking route?
- Absolutely! The route passes through a fascinating Wildflower Meadow, created from former arable fields, and near Downe Camp, a historic site once used by the Scouts for training and adventure. These offer wonderful opportunities to appreciate local flora and history.
Conclusion: Tailored Transport for Every Traveller
London Biggin Hill Airport caters to a diverse range of travel preferences, from the ultimate in ground luxury to the serene enjoyment of the Kent countryside. While the question of a heli shuttle is met with a focus on an exceptional road-based corporate car service by Lloyds of Bromley, the option to embark on a detailed, scenic walk provides a unique alternative for those with time and inclination. Whether you choose the unparalleled comfort of a Mercedes S-Class or the invigorating challenge of a rural footpath, Biggin Hill ensures your journey to and from its gates is well-considered and supported. This blend of premium services and natural accessibility truly makes Biggin Hill a distinctive aviation hub in the UK.
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