Brize Norton is a village located in Oxfordshire, England. It is situated approximately 70 miles west of London and is home to the Royal Air Force's largest station, RAF Brize Norton. The station is responsible for providing air transport for the British Armed Forces and is also used for humanitarian aid missions and other operations. The village itself has a population of around 1,600 people and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
RAF Brize Norton is a significant employer in the area, with over 5,000 military personnel and civilian staff working on the base. The station has a long history, dating back to the early 1930s when it was first established as a training base for the Royal Air Force. Today, it is home to a range of aircraft, including the C-17 Globemaster, the Voyager, and the Hercules. The base also has a number of facilities for personnel, including accommodation, sports facilities, and a medical center.
Despite its close proximity to the base, the village of Brize Norton has retained its rural charm. It has a number of local amenities, including a primary school, a post office, and a village hall. There are also several pubs and restaurants in the area, offering a range of food and drink options. The village is well-connected, with good transport links to nearby towns and cities, including Oxford and Swindon. Overall, Brize Norton is a peaceful and picturesque village that offers a unique blend of rural living and military history.