Damyns Hall Aerodrome
Experience the thrill of aviation at Damyns Hall Aerodrome, a vibrant airfield with a popular family-run cafe and regular events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more plane activity
Damyns Hall Aerodrome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more plane activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of aviation at Damyns Hall Aerodrome, a vibrant airfield with a popular family-run cafe and regular events.
"It's honestly become part of our weekly routine! Great coffee, friendly staff, and a really nice atmosphere."
☕ Coffee Shop Delights
Don't miss the home-cooked food and great coffee at The Garden Coffee Shop! Dog-friendly too.
✈️ Plane Spotting Fun
Arrive early for the best views of planes taking off and landing. Perfect for all ages!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Watching Planes Take Off
Runway viewing areas
Witness the exhilarating sight of planes and gyrocopters ascending from the runway. A true treat for aviation fans!
The Garden Coffee Shop
Onsite cafe
Enjoy delicious home-cooked food and great coffee in a family-run cafe with a tranquil, green setting.
Gyrocopter & Biplane Sightings
Airfield
Spot unique aircraft like gyrocopters and vintage biplanes, adding to the aerodrome's charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plane Spotting Paradise
Event Hub & Coffee Stop
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Coffee Shop Delights
Don't miss the home-cooked food and great coffee at The Garden Coffee Shop! Dog-friendly too. +1
✈️ Plane Spotting Fun
Arrive early for the best views of planes taking off and landing. Perfect for all ages! +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample free parking makes visiting easy and convenient for everyone.
📅 Check for Events
The aerodrome hosts festivals and events; check schedules before your visit! +1
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Coffee Shop Delights
Don't miss the home-cooked food and great coffee at The Garden Coffee Shop! Dog-friendly too. +1
✈️ Plane Spotting Fun
Arrive early for the best views of planes taking off and landing. Perfect for all ages! +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample free parking makes visiting easy and convenient for everyone.
📅 Check for Events
The aerodrome hosts festivals and events; check schedules before your visit! +1
🥾 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You might do some walking around the grounds, so wear comfy shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Damyns Hall Aerodrome for its unique blend of aviation excitement and a welcoming community atmosphere, particularly highlighting The Garden Coffee Shop. The opportunity to watch planes take off and land is a major draw, creating memorable experiences for families and aviation enthusiasts alike. While the aerodrome itself offers a great spectacle, the cafe's friendly service and good food are frequently mentioned as key reasons for repeat visits.
"We’ve been coming to A Day’s Café in Upminster for a few weeks now, and it’s honestly become part of our weekly routine! It’s such a lovely spot great coffee, friendly staff, and a really nice atmosphere.
Today was extra special because we got to watch the aerobatic airplanes, which was amazing! My father-in-law, who has dementia, absolutely loves coming here to watch the planes it really lifts his spirits and makes him feel good every time we visit. Seeing how much he enjoys it means a lot to us as a family.
It’s just one of those places that makes you feel relaxed and welcome every single time. Highly recommend popping in if you’re nearby you’ll probably end up coming back again and again like we do! ☕✈️😊"
Hamid Soliman
"Excellent food in the cafe, Staff are wonderful, watching the planes taking off and coming down is brilliant."
vicky bentley
"Lovely rural location.
Free car parking.
Very clean.
A very good choice of food.
Reasonable prices.
Friendly staff.
I'll definitely be visiting again."
Christine Wisniewska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Damyns Hall Aerodrome is located on Aveley Road in Upminster, Essex (RM14 2TN). Many visitors arrive by car, benefiting from free parking. Public transport options might require a combination of train and bus, so checking local transport routes is advised.
Yes, there is free car parking available for visitors, making it convenient to access the aerodrome and its facilities.
While primarily accessed by car, you can reach Upminster via the District Line on the London Underground. From Upminster station, local bus services or a taxi would be needed to reach the aerodrome.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the aerodrome grounds and to watch planes is typically free. However, specific events held at the aerodrome may require tickets, so it's best to check event listings in advance. +1
The aerodrome itself operates during daylight hours for flying activities. The Garden Coffee Shop has its own operating hours, which are generally consistent but can vary, so it's advisable to check their specific times.
Yes, Damyns Hall Aerodrome is a venue for various events, including festivals like the UG Festival UK. Keep an eye on their social media or local event listings for upcoming dates. +1
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy plane spotting, visit the family-run coffee shop for food and drinks, and sometimes witness unique aircraft like gyrocopters and biplanes. It's a great spot for a relaxed outing. +3
Absolutely! Families love watching the planes, and the coffee shop offers a welcoming atmosphere. It's a great place for kids to experience aviation up close. +1
Yes, The Garden Coffee Shop at Damyns Hall Aerodrome is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners to relax and enjoy the surroundings. +1
Visitors can often see a variety of aircraft, including gyrocopters, biplanes, and potentially training aircraft, offering a diverse aviation spectacle. +3
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Garden Coffee Shop & Diner is the primary food spot, offering home-cooked meals, coffee, and a pleasant atmosphere with views of the airfield. +2
The coffee shop serves good quality home-cooked food, including breakfast options, and is known for its excellent coffee. +1
While specific menus aren't detailed, the emphasis on 'home-cooked food' suggests a variety of options. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about current vegetarian or vegan offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the runway offer great vantage points for capturing planes in action. The coffee shop's outdoor seating also provides a pleasant backdrop. +1
Yes, photography of the aircraft is generally permitted and encouraged, especially for aviation enthusiasts. Be mindful of any operational areas and safety guidelines. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The free parking and generally free entry to watch the planes make it an affordable family activity. The open space around the aerodrome also allows children to move around safely. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, or treat yourselves to the cafe's offerings.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
The presence of pilot training and the general airfield operations offer an authentic glimpse into the aviation world. If you're lucky, you might even hear about or witness special events or experiences like wingwalking.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's a great way to combine your love for aviation with your pet's company, making for a more enjoyable and inclusive day out. Remember to bring water and waste bags for your dog.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Aviation Experience
For those seeking an even more immersive experience, wingwalk experiences have been offered, providing an unforgettable adventure.
The aerodrome also serves as a base for various aviation-related businesses and clubs, contributing to its lively and functional character. This ensures a consistent flow of activity, making it a reliable destination for plane spotting throughout the week. The combination of active aviation and accessible viewing points makes Damyns Hall a standout location for aviation enthusiasts.
The Garden Coffee Shop & Community Hub
The coffee shop's location overlooking the airfield adds a unique charm, allowing patrons to enjoy their meals and drinks while watching planes take off and land. This dual appeal – great food and an engaging view – makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It's also noted as being dog-friendly and wheelchair accessible, further enhancing its inclusivity.
The Garden Coffee Shop is a testament to how a local business can thrive by offering quality service, a welcoming environment, and a unique setting. It transforms a visit to the aerodrome into a more complete experience, combining the excitement of aviation with the comfort of a cozy cafe.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit