In Dorset, a World War II bunker undergoes a whimsical makeover to become an unconventional vacation retreat. The underground lodging maintains its wartime charm while incorporating stylish modern updates.
During World War II, Dorset played a pivotal role as part of the last line of defence against a potential Nazi invasion across the English Channel. Along its picturesque Jurassic coastline, remnants of that perilous time still dot the landscape. Now, over 75 years later, a former radar station bunker near Ringstead Bay has found new life as an extraordinary holiday retreat.
This Grade II-listed military building stands as one of the most well-preserved examples of a Chain Home station in southwest England, forming part of a network of early warning radar stations built around 1941. Known as the Transmitter Bunker, this structure was officially decommissioned in 1956 and lay in obscurity for over half a century, shrouded in darkness with no windows for 65 years. The transformation of this historical relic into a habitable space was led by the RIBA-award-winning British architectural firm Lipton Plant Architects, now part of Corstorphine & Wright. They collaborated with structural engineer Symmetries to preserve as many of its original features as possible, resulting in a unique juxtaposition of low ceilings and weathered walls alongside innovative new additions.
The Transmitter Bunker, now dubbed the Transmission Block, offers breathtaking views of the countryside through a newly carved “bomb blast” window in its solid concrete exterior. It also boasts a small patio that overlooks the picturesque coastline. Nestled into the hillside, the interior remains hidden from view, with the station’s roof entirely covered in grass.
The interior design and architecture of the Transmission Block seamlessly blend the past with the present. The historical features harmoniously coexist with contemporary additions that enhance the space’s comfort and functionality. The result is a one-of-a-kind holiday home that not only pays homage to its military history but also offers a comfortable and stylish retreat for those seeking a unique and memorable experience. The Transmission Block stands as a testament to the power of adaptive reuse in breathing new life into historic structures while preserving their rich heritage for generations to come.
A stay at this converted bunker begins at approximately £732 or ~850EUR for a three-night stay, accommodating up to four people with a mix of plywood bunk and twin beds. The interior includes a fully functional, albeit compact, kitchen, a bathroom, and a wood-burning stove to keep guests warm and cosy.
