Raf Holmpton

About

RAF Holmpton, located just south of Holmpton village in the East Riding of Yorkshire, is an iconic Cold War–era nuclear bunker that was originally built in the early 1950s as part of the ROTOR radar defence programme. After a long period of military use, it was sold into private ownership in 2014 and has since been carefully preserved and maintained by a dedicated volunteer and veteran community. Today the bunker is open to the public in a series of carefully curated visits, offering visitors an up‑to‑date glimpse into Britain’s wartime preparedness and the lives of those who served here. Inside, visitors can explore the 35,000‑sq‑ft command bunker, the massive concrete shell, and sensitive historical artefacts, while learning how the site operated during the height of the Cold War. The site is operated by the Holmpton Initiative Project Planning Office (HIPPO) and remains free of card payment facilities; only cash is accepted. Admissions are priced modestly, with adult tickets costing £15, children (under 16) £10 and infants (under 5) free. Entry is often coordinated through volunteers to ensure a safe and educational experience for all guests. Guided tours are typically available on selected weekend dates only, with the last admission usually at 4 pm and the site closing at 5 pm. The next scheduled open weekend will be the 19th and 20th of April 2025. All visitors are welcomed to explore the impressive, 100‑foot‑deep excavation and the surrounding 36‑acre site, which includes a range of historic structures and exhibits that tell the story of Britain’s Cold War heritage. The bunker remains a testament to the nation’s strategic preparations and to the volunteers who keep its memory alive for future generations. The site’s facilities accommodate visitors comfortably with resting areas, a small café, and a gift shop, though precise opening hours vary with each schedule. However, the approximate daily window for public visits is 11:00 am to 5:00 pm during the open weekends. The bunker’s management encourages visitors to arrive early due to limited space and popular tours. The remote location by the M62 motorway makes it easily reachable from major cities such as Hull, York, and Leeds. Contact the volunteer team for up‑to‑date opening times and booking details. If you’re looking to combine a historical adventure with a touch of military intrigue, RAF Holmpton offers a unique, immersive experience that brings the Cold War to life in the heart of Yorkshire.