Amid the challenging times of the Battle of Britain, the notion of the concrete bunkers constructed to withstand the Luftwaffe transforming into a welcoming vacation spot for holidaymakers would have seemed improbable.
The Standby Generator Bunker in Ringstead, Dorset, offers a unique holiday experience. Originally built in 1941, this converted former World War II radar facility once housed a vital generator that ensured the functioning of the Chain Home radar network in case of power grid failures. It was one of the underground spaces at the former RAF Ringstead site.
The primary purpose of the bunker was to provide backup power for a nearby transmitter bunker, which transmitted radio waves into the Channel to detect enemy aircraft. The received information was crucial for RAF Fighter Command to intercept German bombers before they could reach British towns and cities.
After the victory in 1945, RAF Ringstead continued as a Rotor station during the early years of the Cold War. The generator bunker was decommissioned in 1956 and remained vacant for nearly seventy years, gradually being engulfed by vegetation.
Now meticulously renovated and repurposed into a luxury holiday rental, this Grade II listed structure reopened as a holiday cottage in late 2024. Preserving its original wartime elements, the bunker is now equipped with modern amenities to cater to the needs of contemporary holidaymakers.
Upon my arrival on a pleasant September afternoon, I found the bunker impeccably maintained. The transformation of this functional space into a relaxing retreat is evident, with cozy furnishings and a well-equipped kitchen in the spacious open-plan layout, all overlooking a large window.
The property features three bedrooms spread across two floors, including a double room, accommodating up to eight guests. Adorning the walls are wartime artifacts such as British and American civilian posters and photographs depicting the Chain Home network and RAF aircraft.
The breathtaking coastal view of the English Channel through a blast-shaped opening in the concrete surround adds to the charm. Guests can enjoy a meal or a drink on the balcony, offering a glimpse of the same scenery once vigilantly observed by the military during wartime.
During our stay, we explored Ringstead Bay and the neighboring town of Osmington Mills on a sunny autumn day. Subsequently, with a weather warning issued, we opted for a meal at the historic Smuggler’s Inn, a 13th-century pub nearby.
Our itinerary also included a visit to the iconic Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch shaped by the sea over millions of years, attracting visitors worldwide. The rough sea added to the spectacle, with waves crashing against the arch, delighting onlookers capturing the moment.
We concluded our trip at Lulworth Cove, a picturesque bay surrounded by cliffs, where we encountered the new Saltwater Sauna offering a unique beachside experience. The natural beauty of the area combined with the historical charm of the accommodation made our Dorset getaway truly memorable.
For those seeking a distinctive holiday experience, the Standby Generator Bunker is available for bookings through Sykes Cottages, starting at £1001 for seven nights.