Hillingdon Council's Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre in Uxbridge will be opening its doors to families throughout October half-term (Monday 26 October to Friday 30 October).
The site, which played a critical role in Britain's air defence throughout the Second World War, is now offering a specialised family tour twice a day every weekend and Monday to Friday during half-term.
Led by expert guides, the tours offer children aged 12 and under the chance to experience the bunker and its history at a pace that is adapted for their age group, which means it is shorter and uses more family friendly language.
In the exhibition and visitor centre, families can enjoy a brand new Autumn Trail. Children will be able to create autumnal words out of tote hooks and give the iconic Spitfire image a leafy makeover.
Youngsters will also get the chance to visit neighbouring Dowding Park to follow a scavenger hunt. Tasks will include spotting squirrels, conkers, birds and identifying different leaves.
In addition, children can also use the trail to find out all about the clouds and their importance during the Battle of Britain. They will also discover how to make their own perfect cloud at home.
Cllr Richard Lewis, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Central Services, Culture and Heritage, said: "It is fantastic news that we are holding family friendly activities and tours at the Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre during half-term.
"There are some great attractions for families all in a safe environment. We are looking forward to welcoming visitors so they can enjoy this fantastic site with its rich and varied history."
The self-led Autumn Trail is included in the price of a tour ticket. Families can also enjoy the cafe, which has recently reopened, and take advantage of the open space surrounding the site.
Several new measures have been introduced to ensure the health and wellbeing of staff and visitors, including a pre-booking system, additional signage, and hand sanitising stations. The facility will be operating at a reduced capacity and visitors will need to wear a face covering throughout the visitor centre and bunker, unless exempt.Tour numbers have been reduced to 10 to enable social distancing and a one way system is in place.
To book tickets to visit the bunker, or for more information on the health and safety measures in place, visit battleofbritainbunker.co.uk
Virtual resources are available at battleofbritainbunker.co.uk and also on the bunker's social media accounts - Twitter: @BofBBunker; Facebook (search 'Battle of Britain Bunker, Uxbridge'); and Instagram: @bobbunker
