Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome: A UK Destination Guide

Nestled in the picturesque heart of Leicestershire, just 11 miles (18 km) south of the bustling city of Leicester, lies Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome and Proving Ground. This expansive privately owned site, originally known as RAF Bruntingthorpe, has evolved dramatically since its inception in 1942. For anyone travelling through the UK, particularly those relying on local transport, understanding key regional landmarks like Bruntingthorpe is invaluable. It’s a destination that might surprise you with its diverse activities, from housing thousands of vehicles to providing a unique home for historic aircraft, making it a significant point of interest for both visitors and the local transport network alike. This guide aims to shed light on Bruntingthorpe’s fascinating journey and its current multifaceted role, ensuring you’re well-informed about this remarkable location.

Unveiling Bruntingthorpe: A Leicestershire Landmark

Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome is situated near the tranquil village of Bruntingthorpe, giving the site its distinctive name. Its strategic location in the East Midlands has historically made it a prime spot for various operations, and today, its accessibility makes it a frequent destination for commercial vehicles and enthusiasts alike. While no longer an active RAF base, its sheer scale and the array of activities taking place within its boundaries mean that it remains a hive of activity. For taxi drivers and private hire operators in the Leicestershire area, knowing the exact whereabouts and the nature of the operations at Bruntingthorpe is crucial, as it often generates significant passenger traffic, whether for vehicle auctions, corporate events, or aviation enthusiasts visiting the site.

A Storied Past: From RAF to Proving Ground

The history of Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome is a rich tapestry woven with military service and industrial innovation. Opened as RAF Bruntingthorpe in 1942, it played a vital role during World War II, serving both the Royal Air Force and, later, the United States Air Force. Its runways echoed with the roar of wartime aircraft, a testament to its strategic importance in defending the nation and supporting allied operations. This military chapter continued until 1973 when a significant shift occurred. The aerodrome was sold to Chrysler Motor Corporation, marking its transition from a military base to a dedicated vehicle proving ground. This move initiated a new era, leveraging the expansive runways and infrastructure for automotive testing and development.

The site's evolution continued in August 1983 when C Walton Ltd acquired it. Under their ownership, Bruntingthorpe truly diversified, maintaining its role as a vehicle proving ground while simultaneously expanding into numerous other ventures. These included the invaluable facilities for historic aircraft storage and maintenance, transforming it into a haven for vintage aviation enthusiasts. Beyond that, it became a popular venue for air shows, drawing large crowds and creating a significant demand for local transport services. Corporate hospitality, exhibition space, location filming, motorcycle design and development, and large-scale vehicle storage and auctions all became integral parts of Bruntingthorpe's operations under Walton's stewardship. This period of broad utility solidified Bruntingthorpe's reputation as a versatile and dynamic site.

A recent significant development occurred in 2020 when the majority of the site was sold to Cox Automotive. This acquisition primarily focused on the vehicle storage and auctions aspects, consolidating Bruntingthorpe's position as a major automotive hub. However, a crucial part of the site was retained by the Walton family, specifically for their cherished aircraft activities, ensuring that the aviation legacy of Bruntingthorpe would continue alongside its automotive functions. This dual ownership model reflects the site's unique blend of interests and its continued importance in both the ground and air transport sectors.

Bruntingthorpe's Evolution: Key Eras

Bruntingthorpe Today: A Dynamic Dual Purpose

Today, Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome stands as a testament to adaptability, serving as a pivotal site for two distinct, yet equally significant, industries: vehicles and aircraft. This unique combination makes it a fascinating location and a place that often requires robust transport links. From the perspective of a taxi driver, understanding the diverse activities here is key to anticipating passenger needs and navigating the site efficiently.

The Vehicle Hub

The automotive presence at Bruntingthorpe is immense. The site boasts the capacity to accommodate an astonishing 25,000 vehicles, primarily parked on its former runways and taxi areas. This vast expanse is a critical asset for the automotive industry, serving as a massive storage facility for new, used, and pre-auction vehicles. The sheer volume of cars, vans, and lorries passing through Bruntingthorpe generates consistent demand for transport, whether it's for staff, buyers, or logistics personnel.

One of the most prominent features of the vehicle sector was the Manheim Bruntingthorpe Car Auction Centre, formerly housed in a Cold War-era hangar. While the specific operations may evolve, the core function of vehicle auctions remains a significant draw, bringing in a steady stream of buyers and sellers who often require taxi services for their journeys to and from the site.

Furthermore, Bruntingthorpe has become a significant centre for motorcycle innovation. Royal Enfield Motorcycles, a globally recognised brand, has established its Worldwide Technology Centre at the aerodrome. This facility is dedicated to the design, development, and testing of their motorcycles, adding another layer of industrial activity to the site and reinforcing its status as a proving ground for two-wheeled vehicles as well as four.

The Aviation Haven

While the vehicle activities dominate the commercial landscape, the aviation legacy of Bruntingthorpe remains vibrant and deeply cherished. The site has been home to several iconic aircraft, drawing aviation enthusiasts from across the country. Perhaps the most notable was the Avro Vulcan XH558, a symbol of British Cold War engineering. This magnificent aircraft underwent an eight-year restoration at Bruntingthorpe, costing approximately £6,000,000, before taking to the skies once more. Its first post-restoration flight was a momentous occasion, departing from Bruntingthorpe on 18 October 2007. Although the Vulcan has since moved to Doncaster Sheffield Airport and is now grounded, its association with Bruntingthorpe remains a proud part of the aerodrome's history.

Bruntingthorpe also proudly houses the Cold War Jets Collection aircraft museum on its perimeter. This collection offers a unique opportunity to see and learn about various Cold War-era jet aircraft. While space reductions have led to some aircraft moving to other locations like the South Wales Aviation Museum, the core collection at Bruntingthorpe continues to attract visitors interested in aviation heritage. These visitors often rely on local taxi services to access the somewhat remote location.

The aerodrome has also served as a temporary home for other significant aircraft. For instance, the Vickers VC10 C1K XR808, affectionately known as "Bob," arrived at Bruntingthorpe on 29 July 2013 following its retirement from the RAF, before eventually moving to RAF Cosford for museum display. Similarly, in March 2013, six of the former nine RAF Lockheed TriStars were flown to Bruntingthorpe for storage, although they have since been regrettably scrapped. The very last VC-10 to fly, ZA147, also made its final journey to Bruntingthorpe for storage before meeting the same fate. These movements highlight Bruntingthorpe's role as a temporary holding facility for large aircraft, often bringing in specialist crews and personnel who require transport.

Current Activities at Bruntingthorpe

Unforgettable Moments: Tests and Incidents

Beyond its routine operations, Bruntingthorpe has been the stage for some truly remarkable and, at times, dramatic events. These moments underscore the unique capabilities of the site and its importance in specific, highly specialised fields.

The 1997 Boeing 747 Explosion Test

One of the most extraordinary events to take place at Bruntingthorpe was the 1997 Boeing 747 explosion test. This crucial experiment was conducted jointly by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the US and the UK's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Its purpose was to study the devastating effects of a terrorist-planted bomb explosion on board a wide-body aircraft, directly in response to tragedies like the Lockerbie bombing. An ex-Air France Boeing 747-100 was used for the test. Four similarly sized bombs were detonated simultaneously within the aircraft – two in each underfloor luggage compartment, placed in opposite corners. Three of these corners were meticulously protected with advanced materials like Kevlar or titanium, designed to contain the blast. However, the rear left-hand corner of the rear luggage compartment was deliberately left unprotected, allowing researchers to observe the full, unmitigated impact of an explosion.

The test was extensively documented with numerous cameras positioned both inside and outside the aircraft. A widely circulated photograph from this event captures the dramatic moment the rear port side of the aircraft was blown out, a stark visual representation of the forces involved. Crucially, the protective measures in the other three locations proved entirely successful, completely containing those explosions and demonstrating the efficacy of such countermeasures. This test provided invaluable data for aviation safety and counter-terrorism measures. Interestingly, photographs from this test were later misused in a hoax, falsely depicting an Air Canada Boeing 747 exploding upon landing, highlighting the power of manipulated imagery.

The Handley Page Victor XM715 Incident

On 3 May 2009, Bruntingthorpe witnessed an unplanned, brief flight involving the Handley Page Victor XM715 during a "fast taxi" run. These runs are conducted to keep the aircraft's systems operational and to provide a dynamic display, but they are not intended for actual flight, especially as this particular aircraft did not possess a permit to fly. However, during this specific run, the Victor unexpectedly lifted off, reaching a height estimated between 20 and 30 feet before being safely landed again. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) reviewed the incident but ultimately decided not to conduct a full investigation, deeming it an isolated event without broader safety implications for commercial aviation.

The causes of this brief flight were subsequently identified. It was primarily attributed to the co-pilot failing to respond to the command 'throttles back', which necessitated the pilot taking control of the throttles himself. This brief loss of synchronized control led to the aircraft inadvertently gaining sufficient lift to become airborne. Fortunately, despite the unplanned nature of the event, no legal action was taken by the CAA against either of the crew members aboard XM715 or the operators of Bruntingthorpe Airfield. This incident, while unusual, remains a memorable part of Bruntingthorpe's history, showcasing the raw power of these magnificent machines even during ground operations.

Planning Your Visit: What to Expect

For anyone considering a visit to Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome, whether for an auction, to see the Cold War Jets Collection, or for a corporate event, understanding the site’s layout and accessibility is key. Given its size and the nature of its operations, arriving by private vehicle or taxi is often the most practical option. There is no direct public transport link to the aerodrome itself, making local taxi services an essential part of the transport infrastructure for visitors.

When booking a taxi to Bruntingthorpe, it’s advisable to specify which part of the site you intend to visit, as it is vast. For example, if you are attending a vehicle auction, the drop-off point might be different from visiting the aircraft collection. Pre-booking your return journey, especially if your visit extends into the late afternoon or evening, is also highly recommended due to the rural location. Local taxi firms in Leicester, Lutterworth, and surrounding villages will be familiar with the aerodrome and its various access points.

Visitors should be aware that parts of the site are operational proving grounds, and access is restricted to designated areas for safety reasons. Always adhere to signage and instructions from staff. For those interested in the aircraft, checking the opening times and event schedules for the Cold War Jets Collection is crucial, as these can vary. Understanding the site’s unique blend of active commercial operations and heritage activities will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome located?

Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome is located in Leicestershire, England, near the village of Bruntingthorpe. It is approximately 11 miles (18 km) south of Leicester city centre.

Is Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome still an active airport?

No, it is no longer an active public airport or military base. It is a privately owned site primarily used as a vehicle proving ground, for vehicle storage and auctions, and for historic aircraft activities.

Can I visit Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome?

Access to the site is generally for specific events, businesses operating there, or by appointment. The Cold War Jets Collection is open to the public on designated days. It is advisable to check their official website or event listings for visitor information.

What types of vehicles are stored or tested at Bruntingthorpe?

The site can accommodate about 25,000 vehicles, including cars, vans, and lorries, primarily for storage and auction purposes. Royal Enfield Motorcycles also has its Worldwide Technology Centre there for design and development.

Are there any famous aircraft at Bruntingthorpe?

Historically, it was home to the Avro Vulcan XH558, which was restored there. Today, it houses the Cold War Jets Collection, featuring various historic military jet aircraft. While some aircraft have moved, the collection remains a key attraction.

How can I get to Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome?

Due to its rural location, getting to Bruntingthorpe is best done by private vehicle or taxi. There are no direct public transport links. Local taxi services from Leicester, Lutterworth, or surrounding areas are familiar with the site.

What was the 1997 Boeing 747 test about?

It was a joint US FAA and UK CAA test to study the effects of a terrorist bomb explosion on a wide-body aircraft, using an ex-Air France Boeing 747-100. It provided crucial data for aviation security measures.

Conclusion: Bruntingthorpe's Enduring Significance

Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome and Proving Ground stands as a unique and multifaceted site in the UK. From its origins as a vital RAF base to its current role as a sprawling vehicle hub and a cherished home for historic aircraft, its story is one of continuous transformation and enduring importance. For residents of Leicestershire and visitors alike, Bruntingthorpe represents a fascinating blend of history, industry, and aviation heritage. Its ongoing operations, from massive vehicle auctions to the preservation of iconic jets, ensure a steady flow of activity, making it a regular and significant destination for local transport services.

Whether you're a taxi driver navigating the local area or a passenger planning a visit, understanding Bruntingthorpe's diverse functions and its rich past provides valuable context. It’s more than just a former airfield; it's a dynamic centre contributing to both the automotive and aviation sectors, a place where the echoes of wartime aircraft mingle with the hum of modern vehicle testing. Bruntingthorpe truly is a key landmark in the UK, underscoring the vital role of such specialist sites in the nation's infrastructure and economy, and a testament to its remarkable adaptability over the decades.

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