Ripon Racecourse Airfield: A History of Early Aviation and Defense
The history of aviation in Ripon is deeply intertwined with the region's strategic needs during the early 20th century. What began as a sporting venue—the southern portion of the Ripon Racecourse—was transformed into a vital military asset during the First World War to protect the north of England from aerial threats.
The First World War and No. 76 Squadron
In 1916, the southern section of the Ripon Racecourse, located just 2 miles (3.2 km) southeast of Ripon city, was established as a base for No. 76 Squadron RFC (Royal Flying Corps). Serving as the headquarters for the squadron, the site coordinated Home Defence duties with individual flights stationed at Helperby, Copmanthorpe, and Catterick.
The airfield was relatively compact, spanning only 81 acres (33 ha) and equipped with basic facilities. Its primary mission was to counter German aerial threats, specifically the Zeppelin airships—large, rigid airships used by Germany for long-distance bombing raids across Northern England.
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Expansion and Transition
By 1917, the site's utility expanded with the formation of No. 189 Squadron, which operated as a night training squadron. However, their tenure at Ripon was brief, lasting only five months before the squadron relocated south to Suttons Farm.
A significant organizational shift occurred on April 1, 1918, when the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and the Royal Naval Air Service merged to form the Royal Air Force (RAF). Consequently, the base was renamed Royal Air Force Ripon, a designation it held for 11 months.
Post-War Use and the Second World War
Following the end of the war, No. 76 Squadron moved to Tadcaster in March 1919 and was disbanded three months later. The land was subsequently returned to the owners of the racecourse.
Despite returning to private ownership, the southern portion of the racecourse continued to host civilian aviation throughout the 1920s, including visits from Sir Alan Cobham's Circus. Additionally, another brief civilian airfield existed due south of the city during the same decade.
During the Second World War, the site's military utility returned, though in a different capacity, as it was used as a Prisoner of War (PoW) camp.
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The Distinction of RAF Dishforth
It is important to distinguish the racecourse airfield from RAF Dishforth. Located approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) east of Ripon, RAF Dishforth was frequently referred to as "RAF Ripon" by locals due to its proximity to the town, although this was an unofficial name and not the formal designation of the base.
Key Facts
- Location: Southern part of Ripon Racecourse, 2 miles southeast of Ripon.
- Primary Unit: No. 76 Squadron RFC (Headquarters).
- Size: 81 acres (33 ha).
- Main Objective: Defending against German Zeppelin airship bombing runs.
- Key Transition: Renamed RAF Ripon on April 1, 1918.
- WWII Use: Served as a Prisoner of War (PoW) camp.
| Site/Unit | Period | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| No. 76 Squadron RFC | 1916–1919 | Home Defence Headquarters |
| No. 189 Squadron | 1917 | Night Training |
| RAF Ripon | 1918–1919 | Military Air Base |
| Ripon Racecourse (South) | 1920s | Civilian Flights / Sir Alan Cobham's Circus |
| Ripon Racecourse (South) | WWII | Prisoner of War (PoW) Camp |
| RAF Dishforth | WWII | Military Base (Unofficially called RAF Ripon) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary purpose of the airfield at Ripon Racecourse?
The airfield served as the headquarters for No. 76 Squadron RFC, focusing on Home Defence to protect the north of England from German Zeppelin airship bombing raids.
How large was the Ripon airfield?
The site was quite compact, covering 81 acres (33 ha) and featuring basic facilities.
When did the base become part of the Royal Air Force?
The base became Royal Air Force Ripon on April 1, 1918, following the merger of the RFC and the Royal Naval Air Service.
Was the racecourse used for aviation after World War I?
Yes, the southern portion of the racecourse was used for civilian flights in the 1920s, including visits from Sir Alan Cobham's Circus.
Is RAF Dishforth the same as RAF Ripon?
No. While RAF Dishforth was unofficially called RAF Ripon due to its proximity to the town, it was a separate entity located about 4 miles (6.4 km) to the east.
What happened to the site during the Second World War?
During the Second World War, the site at the racecourse was utilized as a Prisoner of War (PoW) camp.