RAF Bassingbourn, Military barracks in Cambridgeshire, England
RAF Bassingbourn is a military barracks complex in Cambridgeshire built on the grounds of a former Royal Air Force station, housing multiple training facilities and administrative buildings. The site retains the structure and many original buildings from its aviation era, including the notable control tower.
The RAF station was founded in 1938 and served as a base for American B-17 bombers during World War II under the 91st Bombardment Group. Its time as an American airfield left a lasting imprint on the character of the installation and its buildings.
The Tower Museum in the original air traffic control tower displays RAF and USAAF artifacts from World War II operations. Visitors can see equipment, photographs, and personal items belonging to pilots and crew members who were stationed there.
Visiting requires prior arrangement since this is an active military complex with restricted access. The best way to experience the history at this location is through a guided tour of the grounds or a visit to the Tower Museum when it is open to the public.
Director Stanley Kubrick chose this barracks in 1985 as a filming location for his film Full Metal Jacket, employing British Army recruits as background extras. This Hollywood filming day is a surprising part of the site's modern history and is often overlooked by visitors.
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