The sky's the limit at a unique coffee house where you can watch planes landing as you enjoy a slice of cake.
The Pilot’s Hub in Redhill, Surrey is a unique 1930s aviation-themed cafe is situated on a working airfield.
It was first created in 2012 “to bring a special and unique experience to visitors at the Redhill Aerodrome”, 2Chill reports.
It's now a paradise for plane spotters.
As people tuck into sourdough sandwiches and sip marshmallow hot chocolates, helicopters and private planes soar overhead.
It’s “fascinating, interesting and fun” to wander around Hangar 9, and rub shoulders with more than 350 professionals, from the air ambulance crew to flying instructors and pilots.
Owner Richard Blain explained how he made his passion for aircraft and aviation accessible to everyone.
“I grew up with a passion for planes and flying. I used to be an adult instructor, and then in 2012, I saw an opportunity to bring a special and unique experience to visitors at the Redhill Aerodrome,” Richard said.
“The Pilot’s Hub is now a brasserie and coffee shop located on a working aircraft hangar.”
The one-of-a-kind lunch spot seats 150 people inside and outside.
“Visitors get as up close and personal with the aviation activity as you possibly can - without getting in a plane and flying it yourself,” Richard said.
“There are more than 350 people that work on the airfield. You can rub shoulders with the air ambulance crew, flying instructors and speak to pilots while you are out for lunch.
“Walking around the aircraft hangar is like being in a museum."
Redhill Aerodrome officially opened in 1933, as part of the newly established airfield, home to the Redhill Flying Club.
These days Redhill Aerodrome is the venue for a wide variety of commercial aviation activities, which range from helicopter and fixed wing charter services to flying training and aircraft maintenance.
There are a mix of customers that visit The Pilot’s Hub - but very popular with families and children.
“A lot of ex-air force personnel visit, and lots of families. I hope when their kids grow up, they will have an instinctive interest in aviation and aircraft because they used to come here,” Richard said.
The brasserie is 1930s aviation-themed, and the walls are covered with period pictures, artwork, advertisements and memorabilia.
While the experience and view is spectacular, many people visit just for the food.
“We take a lot of pride in the food and coffee that we serve. All our cakes are baked on site by our team of five chefs,” he added.
“There is so much to take in.
“The setting is so unique. It’s a fascinating, interesting and fun place to be.”
The Pilot’s Hub is open seven days a week 8am-5pm, and shuts at 4pm in the winter. They accept walk-ins only.
