Was Battle of Britain filmed at Duxford?

Battle of Britain Film Production at Duxford

Yes, parts of the 1969 epic war film 'Battle of Britain' were filmed at RAF Duxford, making use of its authentic WWII airfield setting and historic hangars.

Film Details

• Release Year: 1969
• Director: Guy Hamilton
• Production: Major British war film with international cast
• Budget: One of the most expensive British films of its time
• Focus: The 1940 air campaign over Britain

Why Duxford Was Chosen

• Authentic Setting: Genuine WWII RAF fighter station
• Original Buildings: Period-correct hangars and structures
• Runway Configuration: Suitable for large-scale aviation filming
• Historical Accuracy: Actual Battle of Britain airfield
• Space Requirements: Large open areas for aircraft and equipment

Filming at Duxford

• Airfield Scenes: Various aircraft operations and ground scenes
• Hangar Interiors: Aircraft maintenance and briefing scenes
• Runway Action: Aircraft takeoffs and landings
• Period Accuracy: Hangars dressed to represent 1940 conditions

Aircraft Used in Filming

• Spitfires: Multiple airworthy examples
• Hurricanes: Hawker Hurricane fighters
• German Aircraft: Modified Spanish aircraft representing Luftwaffe planes
• Bombers: Various types representing both sides

Other Filming Locations

While Duxford was important, the film also used:

• Multiple RAF Stations: Several other airfields across England
• Spanish Airfields: For German airfield scenes
• Studio Work: Interior shots and special effects
• Various Locations: Representing different aspects of the battle

Production Challenges

• Weather: British weather affecting flying scenes
• Aircraft Availability: Limited number of airworthy WWII aircraft
• Scale: Massive production requiring multiple locations
• Historical Accuracy: Balancing authenticity with filmmaking needs

Duxford's Film Legacy

• Continued Use: Duxford has been used in numerous subsequent productions
• Museum Status: Now preserved as Imperial War Museum
• Authentic Setting: Remains a popular filming location
• Historical Preservation: Film helped highlight the airfield's importance

Cast and Production

• Stars: Michael Caine, Christopher Plummer, Robert Shaw
• Technical Advisor: Group Captain Tom Gleave (Battle of Britain veteran)
• Aviation Coordinator: Squadron Leader Hamish Mahaddie
• Historical Consultants: Actual Battle of Britain participants

Impact and Reception

• Historical Importance: Brought the Battle of Britain story to new audiences
• Aviation Film Milestone: Set standards for aerial war films
• Tourism Impact: Increased interest in Battle of Britain sites
• Preservation Awareness: Highlighted importance of historic airfields

Visiting Today

When visiting Duxford today, you can:

• See the hangars and buildings used in filming
• View aircraft similar to those used in the movie
• Learn about the real Battle of Britain history
• Experience the authentic WWII airfield atmosphere

The filming of 'Battle of Britain' at Duxford helped cement the airfield's reputation as one of Britain's most important aviation heritage sites.