Episode 135 – Discovering London’s WWII Legacy: Essential Sites and Tours

In episode 135 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, join hosts Tracy and Doug as they delve into the fascinating world of World War II sites in London and its surroundings. With numerous inquiries from travellers, they share their insights into the most notable locations to include in your itinerary if you’re a history enthusiast.

The episode starts with a discussion on London’s three major World War II sites: the Imperial War Museum, the Churchill War Rooms, and HMS Belfast. With his keen interest in World War II, Doug provides detailed insights into each site, highlighting their historical significance and visitor experiences. The Imperial War Museum, located in Lambeth, offers a comprehensive look at themed exhibitions. At the same time, the Churchill War Rooms provide a glimpse into the wartime operations and the life of Winston Churchill. HMS Belfast, a Town Class light cruiser, offers an engaging experience with its rich naval history.

Tracy and Doug also share their private tour experience with LivTours, where they gained in-depth knowledge from an expert guide. The episode further explores sites outside of London, including Chartwell, Winston Churchill’s former home, and Bletchley Park, home of the codebreakers, both accessible from London and offer unique insights into the war efforts.

Doug highlights additional World War II sites across the UK for those willing to venture further, such as the Battle of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge, the Imperial War Museum Duxford in Cambridgeshire, and the Western Approaches Museum in Liverpool. Each site offers a distinct perspective on the war, making them worthwhile visits for history buffs.

Whether you’re a history aficionado or simply curious about the past, this episode offers a wealth of information and tips for exploring the UK’s World War II heritage.

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Episode 135 – Show Notes

Places mentioned in this episode include

London

• Imperial War Museum (Lambeth)
  📍 Location: Lambeth, London
  🏛️ Description: A comprehensive museum covering various war-related topics and artefacts, including a World War 1 trench exhibit and the Blitz of London. Free entry.
• Churchill War Rooms
  📍 Location: Westminster, London
  🏰 Description: Underground bunkers used by Winston Churchill during World War 2. Includes extensive information about Churchill’s life and leadership, with an audio tour available.
• HMS Belfast
  📍 Location: Thames River, opposite the Tower of London
  🚢 Description: A preserved World War 2 era light cruiser ship. Offers an engaging experience with historical information and special events.
• Aldwych Tube Station
  📍 Location: Aldwych, London
  🚇 Description: Closed tube station used as a bomb shelter during the Blitz. Tours are available.
• Saint Dunstan’s in the East
  📍 Location: City of London
  🌳 Description: A bombed-out church turned into a public garden, showcasing the scars of World War 2.

Just Outside of London:

• Chartwell
  📍 Location: Westerham, Kent
  🏡 Description: Former home of Winston Churchill, offering insights into his life and leadership. Accessible by train from London Bridge to Edenbridge.
• Bletchley Park
  📍 Location: Bletchley, Milton Keynes
  🏢 Description: The home of the codebreakers who cracked the Enigma code. Offers historical exhibits about the people and methods used during the war. Accessible by train from London Euston.

Further from London:

• Battle of Britain Bunker (Uxbridge)
  📍 Location: Uxbridge, near London
  🛡️ Description: The site from which the Battle of Britain was coordinated. Offers historical exhibits on the air campaign.
• Imperial War Museum Duxford
  📍 Location: Cambridgeshire
  ✈️ Description: An aviation museum with an extensive collection of aircraft and exhibits about the air war. Accessible by train to Whittlesford Parkway, Royston, or Cambridge.
• Imperial War Museum North
  📍 Location: Manchester
  🏛️ Description: A museum offering exhibits on various aspects of modern conflicts, hosted in a strikingly designed building.
• Western Approaches Museum
  📍 Location: Liverpool
  🌊 Description: Explores the history of the Battle of the Atlantic and the naval strategies employed during the war.
• Leeds Army Museum
  📍 Location: Leeds, Yorkshire
  🛡️ Description: Dedicated to military history, featuring uniforms, weaponry, and other artefacts from the British Army.
• Bovington Tank Museum
  📍 Location: Bovington, Dorset
  🚜 Description: Showcases a wide variety of tanks and armoured vehicles, with live demonstrations on certain days.

Click here to download a PDF Transcript of Episode 135

Useful resources

Articles

• 21 WWII sites to visit in London

Podcasts

• Episode #126 – London Pass Itinerary Challenge
• Episode #47 – Practical tips for visiting the UK: top 10 FAQs
• Episode #86 – London like a local with Discover Real London Black Cab Tours