RAF Davidstow Moor

RAF Davidstow Moor was an airbase at Davidstow near Camelford in Cornwall, United Kingdom from late 1942 until 1945. Despite a few periods of intense activity it was one of Coastal Command's less-used airfields.

History
The land was acquired in 1941 and a three-runway airfield with extensive dispersal area was constructed in the first half of 1942. Despite the moorland conditions construction was reasonably straightforward, although it did involve the removal of various field boundaries, the closure of minor roads and some drainage work.

The airfield was closed in December 1945 to become a motor racing circuit, known as Davidstow Circuit. In the early 1950s three Formula One races were held there (the Cornwall MRC Formula 1 Races) including the first success for the Lotus marque.

Royal Canadian Air Force

 * 404 Sqn 8 May 1944 - September 1944 Bristol Beaufighter

RAF Davidstow Moor today
The main control tower is clearly visible on the airfield.

Davidstow Airfield and Cornwall at War Museum
More recently the Davistow Airfield, ICAO XDAV, and Cornwall at War Museum has been set up to commemorate the work and people of RAF Davidstow Moor. It is located next to a creamery where Davidstow and Cathedral City cheeses are produced. Many exhibits cover life in World War II in Cornwall, including other airfields along the North Cornwall coast, the Royal Navy, Army civilian services, and life on the home front. Other exhibits include artifacts from the Royal Observer Corps and the Light Infantry, vehicles and weapons.

The airfield is mow used for microlights and motor gliders with three runways in use. The runway lengths and directions are: 02-20, 395m, 06-24, 489m, 12-30, 1450m. PPR is essential for this site. It is currently run by Davidstow Flying Club, Tel: 01840 261517.