Western Approaches HQ Museum - The Battle of the Atlantic Experience

About

Nestled behind the historic Rumford Street in Liverpool, the Western Approaches HQ Museum unlocks the epic saga of Britain’s Atlantic convoy operations during the Second World War. Housed in the restored command centre that once coordinated the Battle of the Atlantic, visitors walk through meticulously preserved rooms – the Central Operations Room, the hush‑laden Cypher Room, a staged 1940‑s street scene, the all‑time‑old NAAFI canteen, and a community classroom – each packed with authentic artefacts and interactive displays. Highlights include the original Gaumont Kalee‑Dragon projector that Winston Churchill himself once used to view secret war footage, and permanent exhibits such as “The Arctic Convoys – A Shared History” and the dedicated Women of the WRNS gallery. In addition to the main collection, the museum briefly hosts the German U‑boat U‑534, whose custodianship was transferred in 2021 with plans for a new visitor facility slated for 2026. Admission offers a 12‑month unlimited return, with children under 16 admitted free of charge, making it an accessible entry point for history lovers of all ages.

Highlights

• Central Operations Room
• Cypher Room
• NAAFI Canteen
• Original Gaumont Kalee‑Dragon Projector
• Women of the WRNS Gallery

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At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes