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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Compare 9 Villas in Minster with updated reviews, rates, and availability.

Luxury Villa, Ensuite, Garden View | Exterior

"Lovely place in Canterbury, great location, host was great and welcomed us shortly after arrival. Plenty of space for other family members who joined us one evening."

AED 1,242 total

includes taxes & fees

22 Jun - 23 Jun

"It’s the middle of summer and no fan is provided. I asked and they never responded. They saw my message on WA but chose to ignore me. Then when I called because their lock box was broken they answered the phone straight away. This property is LOUD. Friday night people walking by talking loudly and the adjacent busy road is also very loud. The stairs are STEEP. Not great for young children but we made it work. They don’t provide baby cots either. Also, only one room has blackout curtains and the...

Villa | 3 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, Internet

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Recent reviews of Minster hotels

Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

5/5 Excellent

"Close to the port. Excellent dining on site. Fish and chips were superb!"

A verified traveler stayed at Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

Posted 5 hours ago

5/5 Excellent

"A three night stay in Lodge 9 was really brilliant! It was secluded in a lovely woodland area. The lodge was very spacious with very impressive en-suite and bathroom. The swift local bus service at the main gates allowed us to visit Canterbury and Folkestone without the hassle of parking. The facilities for tennis, table tennis, snooker and putting ensured we were kept busy. The only slight disappointment was the pool was quite small and shallow."

A verified traveler stayed at Broome Park Hotel

Posted 17 hours ago

5/5 Excellent

"Have to say Joel on the night shift check in service was so helpful and gave more of a 5star service went the extra mile I stay in a lot of budget hotels throughout the country and is by far wasted at the holiday in and should be in a posh 5 star as he went the extra mile "

A verified traveler stayed at Holiday Inn Express Canterbury by IHG

Posted 3 days ago