This is a sponsored article on behalf of the Battle of Britain Bunker.
Sixty feet below the ground in Uxbridge lies a room that played a major role in the second world war. In 1940 it was used to help the RAF secure victory during the Battle of Britain (hence, it is now dubbed the 'Battle of Britain Bunker'). Four years later, it was involved in another crucial turning point in the conflict: D-Day.
This June marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day (also know as Operation Overlord), in which over 155,000 Allied troops landed on the Normandy coast to help liberate Europe from the Nazis. The Battle of Britain Bunker is hosting a whole programme of fascinating — and fun! — commemorative events from Thursday 6 June till Sunday 9 June, and there's something for all ages to enjoy...
The commemorations begin on Thursday 6 June with special D-Day themed tours of the bunker's all-important Operations Room. Your guide will explain what happened during the Normandy landings — the largest seaborne invasion in history — and the pivotal part that this secret HQ played in it all. You'll learn how airborne support was coordinated from here, after a WAAF officer stationed in the bunker gave the orders for Operation Overlord to commence.
Don't worry if you can't make Thursday, though — these tours run every day through to Sunday. Also at the visitor centre on all four days? A pop up D-Day 80 exhibition, featuring a fascinating diorama of the infamous beach landing — that's on top of the Battle of Britain Bunker's permanent D-Day exhibition.
Craving even more D-Day insights? There are several expert talks to get stuck into, as well as a D-Day themed pub quiz in which you can put your newfound knowledge to the test.
In between all of that, there are ample opportunities to relax. Over the weekend, the visitor centre will come alive with music, courtesy of a variety of choirs, bands and singers. Take in a performance, or head to the bunker's onsite cafe for a cuppa and a slice of homemade cake.
Got the kids in tow? The bunker's pop-up climbing wall, where youngsters can test their bouldering skills, is sure to go down a treat. They've also got the chance to get creative while swotting up on history, in the form of a D-Day-themed crafting session.
Visit the Battle of Britain Bunker website to see the full programme and book your tickets.
D-Day 80 at the Battle of Britain Bunker runs Thursday 6 June-Sunday 9 June.
x
