Dates 26 & 27 September 2026

Times 11:00am – 6:30pm

Entry Free timed entry

Capacity Maximum 20 per slot

Doors Open Days 2026

Step inside a piece of Scotland's wartime history

For Doors Open Days 2026, Barnton Bunker Preservation Society is opening the gates to its above-ground WWII RAF Fighter Command Operations Base. Set within a former stone quarry surrounded by woodland, the site played a role in the defence and monitoring of Scottish airspace during WWII before later becoming an important Cold War air-defence facility. Today, volunteers are restoring and preserving this remarkable site while developing it as a place for heritage, community, culture and creativity.

Secure Your Free Place

Walk-throughs run every 30 minutes on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September. Choose an available time below to reserve your free place. Donations to support the ongoing restoration of Barnton Bunker are very welcome on the day.

Walk-Through 20 minutes

Departures Every 30 mins

Price FREE

Select an available date and then choose your preferred walk-through time.

What You Can Expect

Volunteer-Led Walk-Through

Explore the above-ground WWII RAF Fighter Command Operations Base and hear the story of this unique historic site.

Restoration Story

Discover how volunteers are bringing the bunker back to life and preserving it for future generations.

Short Film Screenings

Watch films sharing personal stories connected to Barnton Bunker and the people who have helped shape its future.

Community Garden

Visit the bunker community garden and discover another side of the restoration and community project.

Goats & Hilltop Views

Meet the goats and enjoy scenic views towards the Firth of Forth from the hilltop.

Family Activities

Discover the sword in the stone photo opportunity, children's colouring activities and more around the site.

Take your time. Tea will be available for visitors, and after your timed walk-through you can continue exploring the grounds and activities at your own pace.

Your Visit

01

Arrival & Check-In

Please arrive at the pedestrian gate 5–10 minutes before your booked time. Have your digital or printed ticket ready for one of our volunteers.

02

20-Minute Walk-Through

A volunteer will lead your group through the above-ground WWII RAF Fighter Command Operations Base and introduce the history of the site and restoration project.

03

Explore the Wider Site

After your walk-through, explore the additional activities including film screenings, the community garden, goats, family activities, restoration displays and more.

Please note: the underground Cold War bunker is not included in the Doors Open Days experience. The underground bunker can be visited separately through our full guided bunker tours .

Before You Visit

Meeting Point Barnton Quarry R4 ROTOR Complex, 35 Clermiston Road North, Edinburgh EH4 7BN.

Footwear The site has uneven ground and grassy areas. Sturdy, comfortable footwear such as trainers or walking boots is recommended.

Weather Much of your visit is outdoors. Please dress for the weather and bring a waterproof jacket or sun protection as needed.

Accessibility The historic site has uneven terrain and is not currently wheelchair accessible. It may also be unsuitable for most pushchairs and prams.

Under 16s All visitors under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

Dogs Dogs are not permitted on site, with the exception of service animals.

Parking There is no on-site visitor parking. Please use suitable parking in the surrounding neighbourhood and be considerate of local residents.

Active Restoration Site Barnton Bunker is an historic monument under active restoration. Please follow volunteer instructions and do not enter restricted areas.

Free entry. Donations welcome. Every donation helps preserve Barnton Bunker for future generations.