Cardington Hangars - Bedford

Okay, here’s a detailed description of Cardington Hangars, presented in a formal and helpful tone, suitable for someone seeking information about this unique location:

Cardington Hangars: A Historic Landmark

Cardington Hangars, located at Address: Bedford MK42 0QL, United Kingdom, represent a truly remarkable piece of British industrial history. These enormous hangars have a storied past, evolving from their initial purpose as airship docking facilities to becoming versatile film production spaces. It’s a place that evokes a sense of scale and whispers tales of a bygone era of aviation.

Historical Significance and Structure

Originally constructed in the early 20th century, the hangars were designed to accommodate the colossal airships, notably the ill-fated R101. The R101’s tragic crash in 1930, which occurred shortly after departing from Cardington, cemented the site’s place in aviation history. The hangars themselves are colossal structures – the largest free-standing hangars in the world. They are constructed of reinforced concrete and steel, reflecting the advanced engineering of the time. The sheer size of the hangars is captivating, and it’s easy to appreciate the ambition of the project when you stand before them.

Current Usage and Amenities

Today, Cardington Hangars are primarily utilized as huge sound stages for the film and television industry. This has transformed them into a modern hub for production, attracting major international projects. However, the site retains a significant level of historical preservation, showcasing the original architecture and scale. Interestingly, a road directly accesses the site from the A507, creating a striking visual contrast – a testament to the enduring presence of the hangars in the landscape. Notably, 24-hour transit is available, catering to the demanding schedules of film crews and production teams.

Specialties and Contact Information

The primary specialty offered by Cardington Hangars is, quite simply, space – vast, adaptable space for filming and events. Currently, there is no publicly available telephone number or official website. Information is best obtained through associated production companies or external sources. It’s crucial to note that visitor access is currently limited, primarily to those directly involved in productions utilizing the facilities.

Points of Interest & Reputation

Beyond the hangars themselves, there’s a palpable atmosphere of history and intrigue. The site has garnered considerable attention for its architectural grandeur and the stories associated with the R101. Although a formal visit isn't typically possible, the exterior views are incredibly impressive. It’s worth researching the history of the site and the R101 crash to fully appreciate the significance of Cardington Hangars. The average opinion, based on available reviews, is a solid 4/5, with visitors consistently impressed by the scale and historical importance of the structure.

👍 Reviews of Cardington Hangars

Nick

4/5

Fascinating giant airship hangars. The doomed R101 flew from here. Now also used as huge sound stages for movies. There"s a road right up to the front of them off the A road that passes here. Although it doesn't say you can't drive down this approach, when I motorbiked down it two security men told me to go away! I got the photos below though. 5 stars for the hangars, but you can't really visit properly.

Mark G.

4/5