he Battle of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge, Greater London, is a historic site that played a pivotal role during World War II. It was the nerve center for No. 11 Group Royal Air Force during the Battle of Britain, responsible for coordinating the defense of London and the South East against Luftwaffe attacks.
Historical Significance:
- The bunker was operational from 1939 to 1958 and is most famous for its role in directing the RAF’s fighter response during the Battle of Britain (July–October 1940).
- The iconic “Operations Room” was where the famous command, “Never was so much owed by so many to so few,” was associated with Winston Churchill’s tribute to RAF personnel.
Battle of Britain Bunker
Wren Ave
Uxbridge UB10 0BE
http://battleofbritainbunker.co.uk/
+44 1895 238154
Daily 10:00 – 16:30
Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Admission fee
BUNKER TOURS
The only way to visit the 1940s Bunker is to join one of our scheduled tours. You can see up-to-date availability and book in advance here. Advance booking advised to avoid disappointment. Tours leave promptly, so please arrive in good time.
Tours last around an hour, which includes a presentation in the plotting room. The Visitor Centre closes at 16:30 so please plan to visit before, if you are booked on the last tour, especially on weekends. Please note, filming is not permitted.
The Bunker is accessed via 76 steps and can be unsuitable for those with reduced mobility. Due to the heritage nature of the building there is no lift.
Aircraft collection
| P3901/RF-E
P3873/YO-H L1035/SH-D BS239/5R-E | Hawker Hurricane (replica)
Hawker Hurricane (replica) Supermarine Spitfire (replica) Supermarine Spitfire (replica) |
Hawker Hurricane (replica) P3901/RF-E RAF
Supermarine Spitfire (replica) BS239/5R-E RAF
The exhibition provides insight into how the bunker worked, inside and out, featuring a replica of the original 1940 plotting map and a 360 degree touch screen experience for those unable to go underground to visit the bunker and the original Operations Room.
Battle of Britain Bunker Uxbridge
Exhibits and Features:
1. The Bunker and Operations Room:
- The Operations Room: Preserved in its original state, showcasing the plotting tables, telephones, and maps used to direct fighter aircraft during WWII.
- Experience: Visitors can see where real-time decisions were made to counter enemy raids.
- Guided tours explain the critical work of Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) personnel and RAF officers.
2. Visitor Centre and Museum:
- A modern facility that complements the bunker tour with interactive displays, artifacts, and films.
- Exhibits include:
- Personal stories of pilots and support staff.
- Military equipment, uniforms, and historical documents.
- Details on the radar and communication systems that revolutionized air defense.
3. Aircraft Displays:
- Replica aircraft and components, including parts of downed German planes, provide a tangible link to the air battles.
4. Interactive Experiences:
- Engage with multimedia presentations and interactive exhibits to understand the scope of the air defense network.
Significance Today:
The Battle of Britain Bunker is a vital heritage site that honors the efforts of the “Few” who protected Britain during its darkest hour. It provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the coordination efforts that turned the tide of WWII.
Photo Battle of Britain Bunker