Churchill War Rooms is a must-see exhibition in the heart of London and part of the Imperial War Museum. Situated next to St James’s Park, Westminster, and Big Ben, you can see the underground headquarters of Sir Winston Churchill, who lived and worked there during WWII. Prime minister at the time, you can step in the shoes of Churchill and read about the history that took place there.
During WWII, these rooms were the underground nerve centre for directing the World War and became a settlement for world leaders to take on the problems at hand. The bunker is a labyrinth of rooms and corridors that reside under Westminster. It was a good location for sheltering from German bomb raids and collapsing buildings.
During the tour, you get to see what life was like living in the bunker, including historical images and stories of the staff that worked there. The Churchill museum tells the story of his life and two periods of being Prime Minister. You can walk around the interactive museum or get a private tour from the experts. It’s recommended that you allow approximately 90 minutes for the full experience.
There is no cloakroom, but there is a cafe that is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm with last orders at 4.45pm. Hot food is served until 3 pm. The cafe sells British classics, pies, stews, sandwiches, and salads. The nearest tube station is St James’s Park or Westminster and signposted from there. It is also located next to the Imperial War Museum, which is free to visit and continues your journey through life during the war.
The Churchill War Rooms are open from 9.30am to 6 pm with the last admission at 5 pm. From July to August the museum is open from 9.30am to 7 pm with the last admissions at 5.45pm. Adult tickets are £22, children aged 4 or under are free, children ages 5-15 are £11 and concessions £17.60 (prices as of June 2019). Family tickets are available, and prices may vary between online and at the door. They can also be purchased with a voluntary donation. Audio guides are available.
For more information, visit www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms