In addition to ticking off countries, famous sites around the world, and England but there are also some sites left in London I have not seen yet. One of them was the Churchill War Rooms – a part of the Imperial War Museums – but I rectified that earlier this year.
Now if you are an American reader, you probably covered WWII as part of European history and spent no more than a month on it. And have likely not revisited it since high school, am I right? Well one trip to this museum and you will likely realized you missed quite a bit of it – or at least, it’s been a while since you were 15. \
My favorite thing about this museum is while it takes you through the entire life of Winston Churchill, the artifacts are located in the bunker beneath central London where we worked (and even lived for some time) during World War II. At first I thought the mannequin-esque characters around the museum were odd but I quickly changed my mind as it really helped you envision how the Cabinet War Rooms were used during the 1940’s. I also found it quite interesting that the rooms were practically abandoned until this museum opened in 2005 and I am glad they were able to share the. space with the public – it really is a great part of history!
My friend Ali and I spent about an hour and a half in the museum with our audio guides but I know that some people spend a half day! And even before you get to the pictures, I do not think you need any more convincing but a visit to the Churchill War Rooms is ranked #2 of more than 2,00 things to do in London on TripAdvisor. And of all of my favorite things to do in London, this is certainly a great activity when it is freezing cold or if you are visiting the forecast calls for an afternoon of showers!
My one piece of advice that someone else gave us – buy your tickets ahead of time! They are easy to purchase online and they do sell out – so save yourself from a 3+ hour queue and buy a timed ticket at least a few days before you are planning to visit!
Have you been to the Churchill War Rooms?
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Christine @ www.tnsck.blog says
I see they added a more distinct door and sign. When I went in the 90’s you couldn’t find the entrance. All you would see is this sign that said “Cabinet War Rooms”, but no arrow or door. After about 15 minutes this other female tourist and I spotted a guy who appeared out of nowhere. We realized there were a set of stairs hidden there. Followed them down and there it was. I’m glad they got better signs! It is a very interesting site especially for WW II buffs.
Reagan says
I’ve never heard of it. My husband is a huge history buff and I think he would really love that. We’ll have to note it for our next trip to London. Thanks for the heads up.
Sarah says
What a perfect way to spend time with your friend and learn some history.
Emily says
I was planning to go there someday. Interesting to see the photos and that you enjoyed it so much. Thanks for the tips to about purchasing the tickets ahead of time. Good thinking.
Pamela says
I’m going there in May and was always wondering if it was worth a visit. this post definitely tip the scales and I will make sure that I visit it when I’m there in May. Great suggestion thank you.
cate says
I have never been! Thanks for sharing, I am a history lover so next time I will be in London, I will go.
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