1776Reporting
A forgotten nuclear bunker, hidden beneath the English countryside for decades, has hit the property market at a surprisingly low price. Nestled 14 feet below a field near Buxton, Derbyshire, this Cold War relic is one of only 1,500 of its kind ever constructed. Though long abandoned, the shelter has captured the attention of history buffs and curious homebuyers alike.
Originally built in the 1950s, the bunker was designed for the Royal Observer Corps (ROC), providing safe shelter for three observers in the event of a nuclear attack. These bunkers were meant to allow them to survive, report on nuclear detonations, and monitor fallout.
The bunker, now for sale with a guide price of £15,000 through SDL Property Auctions, offers a rare chance to own a piece of British wartime history. The auction is set for September 26, and interest is already building.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to buy a piece of past war British history,” reads the official listing on Rightmove. “The once in a generation opportunity is to buy a ROC Nuclear Bunker otherwise known as a Royal Observer post.”
Despite its age, the bunker has been described as “in excellent condition, clean and dry” with some “interesting original items” still intact. Its location, on the edge of the scenic Peak District, only adds to its allure.
Inside, potential buyers will find velvet curtains, a cream-colored carpet, and a made-up bed, all part of efforts to make the bunker feel more homely. There’s even a log burner for warmth and a rug for comfort.
The living space, although modest, includes a sleeping area that measures 14 feet by 7 feet and a smaller storage section of 7 feet by 2 feet. “The bunker is secure, dry, and in its original condition, the current owner has refurbished and decorated it in readiness for its new owner,” says the listing.
But it’s not just the bunker’s structure that has people talking. One of its more curious features is an unused chemical toilet, still in its original packaging. “The owner has advised there is an unused and still boxed chemical toilet,” SDL Property Auctions notes, while also recommending that the wood-burning stove be serviced for safety reasons.
Online, the bunker’s listing has sparked a lively conversation. On Reddit, a post about the bunker drew plenty of comments, with one user humorously suggesting, “The pictures are one thing, but the key features really sell it. They had me at ‘Unused Chemical Toilet’.”
Another commenter, however, pointed out the shelter’s limitations, saying, “Not even close to big enough to be of any real use unfortunately.”
Despite the practical concerns, many were intrigued by the possibilities. Some suggested that the bunker could be transformed into a quirky Airbnb, while others saw it as an ideal off-grid escape.
With its blend of history and potential, this bunker may soon find a new owner ready to turn it into something unique. Whether as a private retreat, a historical curiosity, or even a business opportunity, this hidden gem offers an extraordinary opportunity for the right buyer.
The bunker’s auction will take place online, and interested buyers are encouraged to view the property either in person or via a virtual tour. As SDL Property Auctions notes, “Viewings are available but also click on the virtual tour to watch our National Valuer Jim’s video with commentary too.”
In a world where owning a piece of history is a rare privilege, this Cold War relic could become a prized possession for a buyer with vision, practicality, and perhaps a touch of nostalgia.
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