The history of the airfield from 1916 and it's use by the RAF and civil airlines.

Manston started its Aviation days as a Royal Naval Station in 1916, with a base at Westgate Bay for seaplanes. The early airfield was on the area now occupied by the passenger terminal.

By 1917 Manston airfield had grown to include four underground hangars, its own railway line to Birchington, a power station to generate electricity, barracks for 3,000 men and even an indoor swimming pool.

After WW1, training of airmen in airframe maintenance and engine repairs was taught in the School of Technical Training.

1940 and WW2 brought the Battle of Britain. Barnes Wallis arrived in 1943 to test his bouncing bomb at nearby Reculver, before the Dam busters carried out their famous raid. Roland Beaumont arrived with the Typhoon which came to be the most successful ground attack aircraft in WW2.

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Other property types in Minster

Superior Suite, Sea View, Beachfront | Pillowtop beds, individually decorated, individually furnished, desk

"Location Location and comfort, delightful"

AED 477 total

includes taxes & fees

6 May - 7 May

Economy Single Room, Shared Bathroom, Garden View (1) | 1 bedroom

"Cheap , cheerful and clean couldn't ask for more on a budget. If your passing through definitely worth a stay "

AED 387 total

includes taxes & fees

9 May - 10 May

Apartment | Private kitchen | Fridge, oven, stovetop, electric kettle

"Bright and cosy stay in a one bed flat in a small terraced house. Lively high ceilings and view to the sea through the baw windows. It's not a luxury hotel! - but was functional, clean and a great option for a weekend at a festival in neighbouring town Margate. Good prices, excellent communication, on-street parking and short stroll to the beach. "

Recent reviews of Minster hotels

5/5 Excellent

"We had a lovely stay. Staff friendly rooms comfy and plenty of choice for breakfast. Easy walk to the harbour and sea front. Will definitely stay again. "

A verified traveler stayed at voco The Clifton Folkestone by IHG

Posted 2 days ago

The View Hotel Folkestone, a member of Radisson Individuals

5/5 Excellent

Overal ok.

"Ultra clean. Big drawback is parking and the is info on hotels.com is at best ambiguous. Minor moan is that reception staff absent on arrival for about 15 minutes. "

A verified traveler stayed at The View Hotel Folkestone, a member of Radisson Individuals

Posted 2 days ago