The Battle of Britain Memorial, at Capel-le-Ferne near Folkestone, is a solemn and poignant tribute to the brave men and women who fought during the iconic Battle of Britain in the Second World War. As the first memorial of its kind in the United Kingdom, this site holds significant historical and emotional importance, serving as a place of remembrance and reflection.
The memorial was officially opened in 1993, with the purpose of honouring the heroic pilots of the Royal Air Force (RAF) who defended the skies of Britain during the critical battle in 1940. The location of the memorial, on the famous white cliffs overlooking the English Channel, symbolises the strategic significance of the area during the conflict.
What to see at the Battle of Britain Memorial
Visitors to the Battle of Britain Memorial can expect a powerful and moving experience. The centrepiece of the memorial is a striking statue, designed by sculptor Harry Gray. This imposing sculpture portrays a solitary pilot, gazing out over the Channel, representing the indomitable spirit and sacrifice of those who fought in the battle. The surrounding site also includes the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall, which lists the names of the nearly 3,000 RAF personnel who participated in the battle.
![The centrepiece of the Battle of Britain Memorial is a sculpture portraying a solitary pilot gazing out over the English Channel. (Photo: Serge Ottaviani [CC BY-SA 4.0])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/battle-of-britain-memorial.jpg)
The site offers a tranquil atmosphere that encourages reflection and contemplation. Visitors can stroll along the peaceful pathways and take in the breathtaking views of the coastline, while absorbing the weight of history and paying tribute to the courage and resilience of the RAF pilots.
The adjacent Wing visitor centre provides further context and information about the battle, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of this significant chapter in history. The visitor centre includes displays, exhibitions, and multimedia presentations that offer insights into the stories and experiences of those involved in the Battle of Britain.
Visiting the Battle of Britain Memorial
The Battle of Britain Memorial is located at Capel-le-Ferne, around 3.2km (2 miles) northeast of central Folkestone. It is located just off the New Dover Road meaning that it is easy to get to with buses between Folkestone and Dover stopping outside the memorial.
The memorial is open to the public year-round and admission to the site is free.
There is ample parking available, and the memorial is wheelchair accessible.
The memorial site also includes toilets, a gift shop and a cafe.
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