Belle Vue Airfield

Belle Vue Airfield GB-0326 sits on the outskirts of Torrington, a market town in North Devon, England. It is a small general aviation airstrip, primarily used by private pilots, flying clubs, and occasional charter flights. The airfield operates with limited hours, so anyone planning to fly in or out must check availability in advance. Despite its modest size, the site is well-regarded for its easy access and pleasant surroundings.

Getting There

Belle Vue Airfield is located approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southwest of Torrington town centre, just off the B3232 road leading towards Bideford. By car, the drive from Torrington takes about five minutes. From Barnstaple, the nearest larger town, the journey is around 20 minutes via the A3125 and B3232. There is no direct public transport to the airstrip; the nearest bus stop is on the B3232 near the turning, about a 15-minute walk. Most visitors arrive by car or taxi. Parking is available on-site, including a designated wheelchair-accessible car park as confirmed by facilities. For cyclists, the route from Torrington is relatively flat and takes about 10 minutes.

Inside the Terminal

Belle Vue Airfield does not have a conventional terminal building. Instead, there is a small, single-storey structure that serves as an office and pilots' lounge. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming, typical of a community airstrip. Upon arrival, passengers or pilots check in at the office; there is no security screening or baggage handling. Amenities are basic: a waiting area with a few chairs, a vending machine for hot drinks, and a toilet. No commercial food outlets or shops are available, so it is wise to bring any required refreshments. The wheelchair-accessible car park connects via a short, level path to the entrance. Given the limited facilities, it is advisable to plan accordingly—arriving prepared for a simple, low-frills experience.

Belle Vue Airfield GB-0326 and Torrington

Torrington, officially Great Torrington, is a historic market town perched on a ridge overlooking the River Torridge. It is known for its role in the English Civil War—the Battle of Torrington in 1646 saw a Royalist defeat that hastened the conflict's end. The town's compact centre is a conservation area, with narrow streets, Georgian buildings, and the imposing Torrington Town Hall. A key attraction is Dartington Crystal, a glass factory and visitor centre about a five-minute drive from the airstrip, where you can watch artisans blow glass and shop for seconds. The RHS Garden Rosemoor, a stunning 65-acre garden, is also nearby (10 minutes by car). For outdoor enthusiasts, the Tarka Trail—a cycle and walking path following old railway lines—passes close to the airfield, offering routes through wooded valleys and along the River Torridge. The area's quiet roads and rolling Devonshire countryside make it a pleasant destination for scenic flights or weekend visits.

Practical Information

Belle Vue Airfield GB-0326 is not open every day; confirmed opening hours are limited. Busiest times are Monday at 10 am, Tuesday at 1 pm, Wednesday at 6 am, and Thursday at 12 pm. It is essential to contact the airfield in advance, especially if arriving outside of these peak periods. The phone number is +44 1805 623113. No website is listed. Pilots should note that there is no fuel available on-site—nearest fuel stops are at larger airfields in the region. The runway is grass, so conditions may be weather-dependent. For anyone flying in, a concrete piece of advice: call ahead to confirm hours and notify of your arrival, as the airfield operates on a part-time schedule and may not be staffed continuously.

Overall, Belle Vue Airfield is a functional, no-nonsense strip that does what it needs to for the local aviation community. Its location makes it a useful access point for exploring Torrington and the North Devon countryside.