Drakelow Tunnels Museum

What it’s like

Guided tours through a real WWII and Cold War tunnel network, plus rock houses cut into the hillside above.

This is one for kids who like the idea of going somewhere they're not really meant to be. The tunnels were dug for WWII use and kept going right through the Cold War, so you're walking through decades of actual history rather than a themed reconstruction. Above ground there are rock houses dug into the hillside and an Iron Age hillfort to look at too, which gives you something to point at before you even go underground.

You won't be turning up on spec here. Every visit has to be pre-booked or arranged in advance, with open day guided tours and private tours both on offer. That's a bit of a faff if you're the sort of family who decides on a whim where to go on a Saturday morning, but it does mean you're not queueing behind a coach party once you're in.

Because it's a guided tour rather than a wander-round-yourself museum, it suits kids who can cope with sticking with a group and listening for a stretch. Younger ones who want to run off and touch everything might find the pace a bit much, but for a child who's into war history or just likes the drama of tunnels and hillsides, this ticks the box a soft play never will.

Facilities

Need to know

Booking

All visits must be pre-booked or arranged in advance

• Booking is essential, not just recommended: there's no walk-in option
• Private tours are available if a guided open day slot doesn't suit
• It's underground and guide-led, so little ones who like to wander off might find it tricky

Plan your visit

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