Kenley combines nature watching, outdoor trails and aviation history. The 56-hectare Kenley Common is a public open space with several possible walking routes. Historic attractions include surviving structures from Kenley Aerodrome and various memorial sites. You can plan your visit around the subjects that interest you most.

Landscape and nature at Kenley Common

The common includes a variety of habitats: chalk grassland, neutral and acidic grassland, ancient hedgerows, ancient woodland, coppice and scrub. The steep chalk grassland slopes provide suitable conditions for bee orchids (Ophrys apifera) and other orchid species. Their colourful blooms can be seen around June. If you are particularly interested in orchids, this approximate timeframe is a helpful guide for planning your visit.

Butterflies offer another way to explore the area: 30 different species have been recorded at Kenley Common since 1990. The orchids bloom around June; 30 different butterfly species have also been recorded at Kenley Common since 1990. The common is open year-round; local safety guidance may affect access to parts of the airfield.

Aviation history and memorials

The two intersecting concrete runways are among the main surviving structures of Kenley Aerodrome. Kenley Common also has eight surviving air-raid shelters, protected by Historic England as Scheduled Monuments. Together, these sites offer a historical focus distinct from nature watching.

The Kenley Tribute was built and dedicated during the Millennium year. It is the focal point for wreath-laying on Remembrance Day and other commemorative events. The Church of All Saints in Kenley is also part of the area's history: J Fowler built it between 1870 and 1872. The area's historical themes thus range from the airfield structures and remembrance to the architectural history of the church.

Walking and cycling

There are several possible walking routes at Kenley Common. The London Loop also passes through the area: Section 5 includes Kenley Common. Cycling is permitted on many bridleways and designated paths. On foot, you can choose between several walking routes; by bike, you can use many bridleways and designated paths. If you are planning your visit with the airfield in mind, be aware that local guidance may affect access to parts of it.

Plan your journey and accommodation

Kenley Common is about a 15-minute walk from Kenley station. If you are travelling on the Southdown PSV 409, get off at Buxton Lane/Ninehams Road; from there, it is about a ten-minute walk to the southern entrance to the common. The two journey times refer to different starting points. Check bus services and stop locations before setting off.

There is no public car park at Kenley Common. Marked on-street parking is available on Hayes Lane; as parking rules may change, check the current situation before travelling. When looking for a hotel for your stay, consider the specific address and your planned route. The station, bus stop and southern entrance are different points of reference to help you plan your visit.

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