Battle of Britain Bunker, Uxbridge
Explore the secret underground command centre that coordinated Britain’s air defence during WWII’s Battle of Britain.
The Battle of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge is the only original RAF Fighter Group Operations Room open to the public, located 60 feet underground. This historic WWII command centre was pivotal in coordinating the defence of southeast England during the Battle of Britain. Visitors explore the preserved plotting room with its iconic map table and squadron displays, gaining insight into the strategic use of radar and communications that helped secure Britain’s skies.
A brief summary to Battle of Britain Bunker
- Wren Ave, Uxbridge, UB10 0GG, GB
- +441895238154
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours well in advance, especially on weekdays, as access to the bunker is only via scheduled tours.
- Allow 2-3 hours to fully experience the bunker tour and visitor centre exhibits.
- Use the free on-site parking or arrive by public transport to avoid parking hassles.
- Visit the café and gift shop for refreshments and unique WWII memorabilia.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the bunker is accessed via 76 steps and involves some walking.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From central London, take the Metropolitan or Piccadilly Line to Uxbridge Underground Station, then enjoy a 15-minute walk to the bunker. The journey typically takes 50-70 minutes. No additional fare is required beyond standard London Underground pricing.
-
Car
Driving from central London takes approximately 40-60 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available on-site. Note that some satnav systems may not direct precisely to the visitor centre, so plan accordingly.
-
Bus
Several local bus routes serve Uxbridge town centre from nearby areas, with a 15-20 minute walk to the bunker. Bus travel times vary by origin, typically 30-60 minutes. Check local timetables for schedules and fares.
Battle of Britain Bunker location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Battle of Britain Bunker
Historic Heart of Britain’s Air Defence
The Battle of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge served as the central operations room for RAF Fighter Command’s No. 11 Group during World War II. Constructed just before the war in 1939, this underground complex lies 60 feet (18 meters) below ground and was designed to be bomb-proof, ensuring uninterrupted coordination during the Luftwaffe’s aerial assaults. It was here that Air Vice-Marshal Keith Park and his team directed fighter squadrons defending southeast England, playing a decisive role in the Battle of Britain.Immersive WWII Command Experience
Visitors descend 76 steps to enter the bunker’s two-level operations rooms, where the original plotting table dominates the space. This large map displayed southern England and the French coast, with coloured lights indicating squadron status, weather conditions, and balloon defences. The control room, preserved as it was when Winston Churchill visited in 1940, offers a rare glimpse into wartime command technology and procedures, showcasing the integration of radar, telephone exchanges, and real-time intelligence.Commemorating the Few and Their Legacy
The bunker also honours the pilots and aircrew who fought in the Battle of Britain. Exhibits include personal belongings, letters, and stories of those who sacrificed their lives, providing a poignant reminder of the human cost behind the historic victory. The visitor centre and museum surrounding the bunker enrich the experience with interactive displays and educational resources about the wider context of the war and RAF operations.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
Open daily from 10:00 to 16:30, the site offers guided tours lasting about 90 minutes, which are essential to access the bunker itself. The visitor centre is wheelchair accessible, with a café and gift shop on site. Free parking is available, and discounts apply for Defence Discount Service and Hillingdon First cardholders. The surrounding parkland invites visitors to explore further after their tour.Strategic Importance and Technological Innovation
The bunker was the nerve centre of the Dowding system, a pioneering integrated air defence network combining radar detection, ground defences, and fighter command coordination. This system enabled the RAF to efficiently deploy limited resources against German air raids, marking the first major defeat of the Luftwaffe and a turning point in the war. The bunker’s preservation offers a unique educational insight into early command and control warfare technology.Enduring Symbol of British Resilience
Today, the Battle of Britain Bunker stands as a protected heritage site, embodying the courage and determination of those who defended Britain’s skies. Its authentic wartime atmosphere and detailed exhibits provide an immersive journey into one of the most critical chapters of 20th-century history, making it an essential visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the legacy of WWII.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Courtyard London Heathrow Airport
7.0 km
Modern 4-star comfort with rooftop views and meeting spaces just minutes from Heathrow’s terminals 2 and 3.
King John's Palace
7.6 km
Step into medieval England at King John's Palace, a royal residence and charity school with centuries of history in Colnbrook.
The King's Head Gantry
9.2 km
Historic King's Head Gantry in Harrow on the Hill, a royal relic and iconic village landmark steeped in centuries of heritage.
St Anne's Well
9.6 km
Discover the tranquil historic spring of St Anne's Well, a sacred site famed for its healing waters and medieval spiritual heritage.
Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque
10.4 km
Discover the modest Feltham home where Freddie Mercury’s legendary musical journey began and his legacy is forever commemorated.
Burning Bush
11.4 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
11.5 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
King Edward III Tower
11.6 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
11.7 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
11.8 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
11.8 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
The Curfew Tower
11.8 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Duchess of Kent Mausoleum
11.8 km
Discover the tranquility and historical significance of the Duchess of Kent Mausoleum, a hidden gem in the lush landscapes of Frogmore Gardens.
Ancient well
11.8 km
A humble medieval water source steeped in Windsor's royal heritage and local legend.
Soldier's Statue
11.8 km
A solemn tribute to Irish Guardsmen, this statue in Windsor honors military service amidst a rich historic townscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Pavilions
1.3 km
A practical and welcoming shopping centre in Uxbridge blending high street brands with a unique indoor market experience.
Fassnidge Park
1.5 km
A historic Edwardian park in Uxbridge offering gardens, sports, playgrounds, and a welcoming café in a tranquil urban setting.
Uxbridge Lock
1.8 km
A serene canal lock nestled in Denham’s green belt, blending historic charm with tranquil waterside walks.
Pynchester Moated site
3.3 km
Explore the tranquil medieval moated site of Pynchester in Ickenham, a rare glimpse into England’s 14th-century manorial heritage amidst peaceful woodland.
Barra Hall Park
3.8 km
Historic manor grounds transformed into a vibrant Hayes park with gardens, playgrounds, sports, and cultural events year-round.
Down Barns Moated Site
4.4 km
Step back into medieval England at Down Barns Moated Site, a serene moated manor in Northolt rich with history and archaeological intrigue.
St Martin's
4.8 km
Discover centuries of Norman heritage and medieval charm at St Martin's Church, a tranquil historic landmark in Ruislip.
Manor Farm Library
4.8 km
A welcoming community library in Ruislip offering books, digital resources, recycling services, and family activities in a peaceful setting.
West London Film Studios
5.7 km
Premier London film studio complex hosting Oscar-winning productions across two purpose-built sites.
Harmondsworth Barn
5.8 km
Explore England’s largest medieval timber barn, a majestic oak masterpiece preserving centuries of rural heritage near Heathrow.
The SkyEx Community Stadium
6.0 km
A modern football stadium in Hayes blending community spirit, sporting heritage, and versatile event spaces.
Harmondsworth Moor
6.0 km
Discover Harmondsworth Moor, a serene green oasis near Heathrow, blending rich wildlife habitats, historic charm, and tranquil walking trails.
Black Park Country Park
6.1 km
Explore over 500 acres of woodland, lakes, and adventure at Black Park Country Park near Slough, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Cranford Countryside Park Country Park
6.6 km
Explore 144 acres of historic woodlands, riverside trails, and heritage landmarks in this tranquil West London countryside park.
Eastcote House Gardens
6.6 km
Discover Tudor heritage and tranquil beauty in Eastcote House Gardens, a lovingly restored green oasis with historic buildings and vibrant horticulture.
Essential places to dine
Tamara Lounge
1.9 km
A vibrant fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Lebanese flavors with lively nightlife and shisha lounge in the heart of Uxbridge.
Miller & Carter Ruislip
5.3 km
Classic British steakhouse in Ruislip serving premium cuts with warm, attentive service in a relaxed setting.
Arens Bar & Grill at The Six Bells
5.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of grilled delights and crafted cocktails at Arens Bar & Grill - your go-to dining destination in Ruislip.
The Pheasant Inn & Restaurant Heathrow (over 18s only)
6.4 km
A refined adult-only pub and restaurant near Heathrow offering generous British fare, excellent gluten-free options, and warm hospitality.
Madeirinhas
6.5 km
Authentic Portuguese flavors and warm hospitality just minutes from Heathrow in a casual, welcoming setting.
Three Magpies
6.7 km
A cozy Heathrow pub serving hearty classics and a wide drink selection in a friendly, family- and dog-friendly setting.
Plaza Premium Lounge (Departures, Terminal 2) London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
7.9 km
A stylish and comfortable retreat in Heathrow Terminal 2 offering quality food, drinks, and amenities for all travelers.
King & Lamb Restaurant
8.4 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house setting with superb roasts, vegan options, and a tranquil garden atmosphere.
Plaza Premium Lounge London Heathrow (Departures, Terminal 4)
9.0 km
A spacious, modern lounge at Heathrow Terminal 4 offering diverse dining, apron views, and comfortable amenities for travelers seeking relaxation before departure.
The Three Oaks
9.0 km
A Michelin Bib Gourmand gastropub blending modern British cuisine with Asian flair in a charming Tudor-style setting.
The Bell On The Green - Pub, Bar and Indian Restaurant
10.1 km
A vibrant Feltham pub blending classic British charm with authentic Indian flavors and a welcoming beer garden.
Lytton Restaurant
10.5 km
Elegant English dining with seasonal menus and tranquil garden views in the heart of Chalfont St Peter.
Man vs Food
11.4 km
Bold American flavours and massive portions meet lively challenges in Isleworth’s vibrant Man Vs Food diner.
The Boatman
11.5 km
Windsor’s charming riverside gastropub offering classic British fare, scenic Thames views, and a relaxing atmosphere by the water.
Le Taj
11.5 km
Experience authentic and innovative Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Feltham at Le Taj.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Neelam Post Office & Convenience
1.8 km
Experience the best of convenience shopping in Uxbridge at Neelam Post Office & Convenience, offering fresh produce, postal services, and more.
The Discount Store
2.6 km
Discover unbeatable prices and a wide variety of products at The Discount Store in Hayes, a must-visit destination for budget-savvy travelers.
Unique Gifts
7.5 km
Explore Unique Gifts in Slough for one-of-a-kind treasures that capture the essence of local culture and creativity.
Louis Vuitton Heathrow T3
7.9 km
Experience timeless luxury and impeccable style at Louis Vuitton Heathrow Terminal 3, your elegant travel companion.
Harrods
8.0 km
Experience the pinnacle of luxury shopping and festive magic at Harrods, London’s iconic department store in Knightsbridge.
The Copper Collection
9.3 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and local artistry at The Copper Collection, a charming gift shop in Pinner open daily.
Always & Forever - Wedding Dresses London
10.8 km
Premier family-run bridal boutique in Hounslow offering over 700 gowns and personalized, pressure-free service for your perfect wedding dress.
Stuff
11.5 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming West London boutique with a personal touch and curated collections.
Wellington 1895 Antiques Windsor
11.7 km
Centuries of curated treasures in Windsor's most distinguished antique shop.
Middle Ward Shop
11.7 km
Royal souvenirs and gifts within Windsor Castle's historic Middle Ward.
Purple Gifts
11.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs
11.8 km
Discover charming and affordable keepsakes at Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs, your perfect stop for memorable treasures near Windsor Castle.
House Of Gifts
11.8 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at House Of Gifts, your friendly stop near the castle for memorable keepsakes and affordable treasures.
Great British Gifts
11.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artisan treasures just steps from Windsor Castle at Great British Gifts.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
11.8 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and classic styles at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Windsor’s historic Castle Hill.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Music Box
4.5 km
A vibrant pub and events venue in Hayes blending great food, live music, and versatile spaces for celebrations.
Middlesex Arms
5.0 km
A classic British pub blending traditional charm with modern comforts in the heart of Ruislip.
The White Hart Harlington
6.0 km
A welcoming gastropub in Harlington serving fresh, locally sourced British classics with a cozy atmosphere and family-friendly charm.
The Old Orchard
7.1 km
A charming gastropub in Harefield offering stunning views, refined British cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Queen's Head, Cranford
7.4 km
Historic 400-year-old pub in Cranford blending traditional charm with modern gastropub dining and lively entertainment near Heathrow.
Green Man
9.0 km
Historic British pub near Heathrow with traditional charm, lively events, dog-friendly spaces, and unique plane-spotting views.
The Castle, Harrow
9.3 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Harrow serving classic British roasts and ales in a warm, lively atmosphere with heritage charm.
Star & Scorpion
10.8 km
A lively gastropub in West Ealing serving American-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and featuring private heated cabins with Sky Sports.
The Royal Windsor
11.6 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
La planchette
11.7 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Two Brewers
11.8 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
The Cobbles
11.8 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The Horse & Groom
11.8 km
Historic and welcoming English pub opposite Windsor Castle, offering hearty food, local ales, and cosy accommodation in the heart of Windsor.
The Carpenters Arms
11.8 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Prince Harry
11.8 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Winkers Nightclub
9.2 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
11.9 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Scotch
12.0 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
The Boom
12.0 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
12.2 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Music & Words Club
12.3 km
Discover the heartbeat of Windsor at The Music & Words Club, where live performances and creative energy come alive in a cozy atmosphere.
Popworld Watford
13.8 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
Canvas Bar & Nightclub
13.8 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Lost In Disco
16.6 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Subteranian
18.1 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Ricco London
18.1 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Electric House
18.2 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Duke of Wellington
18.2 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
The Globe
18.5 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Notting Hill Arts Club
19.0 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly