Western Approaches
Last Updated on April 6, 2024 by Suzy McCullough
The Western Approaches Museum is located in the heart of Liverpool, Merseyside. Inside you can explore Britain’s top-secret underground bunker that is hidden under the streets of Liverpool. Back in the day, you had to sign the Official Secrets Act to enter the building, luckily it is now open for visitors to explore freely.
What can you see at the Western Approaches Museum?
There is a labyrinth of rooms to look around. The site is a precious time capsule and although the 300-strong staff from wartime are long gone the museum still looks the same today.
A self-guided tour of the underground bunker takes around 1.5 hours. You can also book guided tours with prices of £75 for up to 15 people, plus an entry fee per person. Walking around the museum you will discover the stories locked in the WWII bunker that protected the tactics of the British Armed Forces plotting the Allied victory. You will see where the personnel worked day and night. The Operations Room has remained exactly how it was left when the doors were closed on the 15th of August 1945.
For kids, there is the Cipher Trail. It is an imaginative activity pack with a military gas mask bag full of code-breaking tools for you to crack the clues as you explore the bunker. If you are successful you will be rewarded with a ‘Top Secret’ certificate. There is also a Trailblazer activity map, parlour games and crafts. Kids will love Dock Lane, their recreated war-torn street scene. There’s a grocer’s shop full of the rations of the day, dressing up, a sweet shop, a blacked-out pub and more. There is even a real unexploded bomb that you can touch – if you dare.
Important Information Western Approaches
Is there food and drink available?
There are places to purchase food and drinks nearby.
What are the main things to do?
Vast WWII secret underground bunker that you can explore, with a recreated street and family-friendly trails. There are toilets.
What are the ticket prices?
An adult ticket costs £13.50, children 5-16 £8, additional children will be £4 and children under 5 are free. Other pricing options are available.
All tickets are valid for free returns for 12 months. Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
Is there parking?
There is pay and display parking nearby on Rumford Street in front of the museum plus other car parks nearby.
When are they open?
They are open for most of the year. For up-to-date opening times please visit their website.
Dog friendly?
No information has been provided.
Are they accessible?
Please visit their website.