Fly a Spitfire

Fly a Spitfire is exactly what it says on the tin: a chance to fly in, or at least around in the orbit of, a real Spitfire at Biggin Hill. Reviews mention 30-minute flights, a chaser plane option, and even the chance to have some control of the aircraft, which is the sort of thing most children will remember forever and most parents will spend the next week hearing about. The big win here is the experience itself. Reviewers rave about the friendly, knowledgeable staff, the pilot, and the heritage hangar tour. There’s also plenty for non-flyers to do while waiting, with a dispersal lounge full of history and engineers working on restorations. It sounds properly impressive, and unusually good at making a special occasion feel like one. The caveat is obvious: this is not a casual, budget-friendly kids’ attraction. Reviews mention weather-related delays and a busy reception area when flights are cancelled, so flexibility helps. It also doesn’t look like a place for tiny children; this is much more of a once-in-a-lifetime outing for older children, teens and aviation-obsessed adults than a standard family day out.