History

1940s

World War II

In April 1941, the Ministry of Aircraft Production chose Drakelow to build a 3.5 mile underground factory as part of a strategic effort to protect Britain’s vital manufacturing capabilities. The tunnels were constructed to house a Shadow Factory for Rover, ensuring the continuous production of essential engine components that were critical to the war effort. Hidden deep underground, the site provided safety from air raids while supporting the nation’s industrial needs during a time of great uncertainty. Parts of the tunnels surplus to Rover’s requirements were used as storage by the RAF.

A German bomber flying over London 1940 – © Geopix

Post World War II

After World War II, the need for secure manufacturing continued, and Drakelow Tunnels remained vital for Britain’s defence industry. From around 1947 to the early 1950s, Rover assisted Rolls-Royce in the development and production of the Meteor Tank engine – a crucial component for military tanks. The tunnels, with their hidden and secure nature, provided the perfect setting for this sensitive and important work, continuing Drakelow’s role in supporting Britain’s defence needs in the post-war era.

Rolls-Royce Meteor engines went into vehicles such as the Comet tank. © piemags

1950s – 1990s

Cold War

In the aftermath of World War II, Europe was divided by the Iron Curtain, and nuclear tensions between East and West began to rise. As the Cold War escalated, Britain prepared for the possibility of a Soviet attack by creating a network of secure underground command centres.

By the 1950s, Drakelow Tunnels was repurposed as a secret government facility. In 1958, it was designated Regional Seat of Government (R.S.G.9). The site housed communications equipment, stores, dormitories, and even a BBC emergency broadcast studio – ready to support regional leadership in the event of nuclear war.

In the 1980s, the Thatcher government overhauled the UK’s civil defence strategy, replacing the outdated RSG system with a network of Regional Government Headquarters (RGHQs). These bunkers were designed to coordinate an emergency response after a nuclear attack.

Drakelow (RGHQ 9.2) was upgraded and assigned responsibility for Shropshire, Herefordshire, and Worcestershire. The site received improved communications, infrastructure, and facilities – ensuring it could operate independently during a national crisis.

Post Cold War

In 1993, Drakelow RGHQ 9.2 was officially declassified and decommissioned by the Home Office. After the removal of all equipment, the site was put on the market and sold in 1994 to its current owners.

Berlin Wall is destroyed in November 1989 – © Pictorial Press Ltd

The Future

What’s next for Drakelow?

Since being sold, Drakelow Tunnels have served a wide range of uses – from guided tours to airsoft and paintball. The site is often listed among the UK’s most haunted locations, making it popular for paranormal investigations. They’ve also been used for filming and training exercises.

Today, much of the site is used for fine wine storage, while a section is preserved as a museum, proudly operated by a passionate team of volunteers.