Bletchley Park

The Basics

The Codebreakers were Britain’s secret weapon during WWII; they helped to shorten the war by around two years. At Bletchley Park, you can explore that legacy independently via exhibits or as part of an outdoor tour. However, visitors especially interested in the Codebreakers may wish to visit Bletchley Park as part of a tour which includes a stop at the University of Cambridge, attended by Alan Turing and several other Codebreakers.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Bletchley Park is a must for both history and technology buffs, especially those interested in WWII.

• 1-hour, guided outdoor tours are available at Bletchley Park.

• Children under 12 go free, making Bletchley Park a great choice for families.

• Book your Bletchley Park admission tickets in advance to save time waiting on the day.

• Bletchley Park is fully wheelchair accessible and offers guided British Sign Language tours year-round.

How to Get There

While it’s perhaps most convenient to visit Bletchley Park as part of a tour, this heritage site is easy to reach independently. Those arriving by car should leave the M1 at Junction 13 and follow the sigs. Onsite car parking is free but limited. Bletchley Park is also just a few minutes’ walk away from Bletchley train station.

When to Get There

Bletchley Park opens daily from 9.30am to 5pm in summer and until 4pm in winter, except on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. School and bank holidays are often the busiest periods, so plan accordingly to avoid the biggest crowds. Guests who’d like afternoon tea—available on select weekends—should book in advance.

WWII Attractions in England

If Bletchley Park has whet your appetite for more WWII historical heritage sites, consider a visit to London for more. There, you’ll find the Churchill War Rooms, where you can learn more about Britain’s WWII leader, as well as the Imperial War Museum, which is often a stop on London hop-on hop-off bus tours.

What is Bletchley Park known for?

Once a private estate in the British countryside, Bletchley Park was taken over by British Intelligence at the start of World War II. The 1-time home became the headquarters of the Allied Forces’ secretive codebreakers, who deciphered German and Japanese codes by using one of the world’s first electronic computers.

Does Bletchley Park have any activities for children?

Yes, while codebreaking and wartime intelligence might not seem like the most family-friendly topics, Bletchley Park has plenty of programming that caters to kids. You can purchase a Top-Secret Mission Pack to embark on their own secret hunts, while free multimedia guides offer interactive challenges, puzzles, and kid-friendly storytelling.

Does Bletchley Park have any food and drink options onsite?

Yes, the Block C Coffee Shop is open for tea, coffee, and light lunches. The Hut 4 Cafe has hot meals and sandwiches, and in the summertime, they also offer hot dogs and ice cream. For truly decadent dining, you can book an afternoon tea in Bletchley Park’s historic Dining Room.

Does Bletchley Park offer discounts for students, seniors, or other groups?

Yes, kids ages 12 to 17 receive discounted admission, and children under 12 years are free. Students and seniors (over 60) also benefit from a slight reduction in admission cost. Also, families with children (one adult and two kids, or two adults and two kids) can purchase special bundled family packages.

How much time should I plan for a visit to Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes?

When visiting Bletchley Park, plan on being there a minimum of three hours—and more if you’re a history buff. There’s plenty to see and do within a sprawling estate that includes the main mansion, multiple huts and cottages, and an onsite communications hub. In summertime, you can also bring your own picnic.

Can I take photos and videos within Bletchley Park?

Yes, you can, and bringing a camera is a good idea. Even if you’re not particularly interested in World War II–era intelligence operations, the Victorian estate is a stunning place to spend the day. Visitors can take pictures of the grounds and the exhibits for their own personal use.