Bristol, September 4, 2025
News Summary
A Cold War-era bunker in Bristol, England, is set to be auctioned with a starting bid of £20,000. This unique property, previously used for civil defense, offers an intriguing investment for buyers interested in historical relics. The auction is scheduled for September 25, and with a cramped interior and limited amenities, it poses both challenges and opportunities for potential owners who may seek to convert it for modern use.
Bristol Cold War Bunker Set to Go Up for Auction
A Cold War era bunker located in the Bristol area of England will be auctioned later this month with an initial bid set at £20,000 (approximately $26,740). The auction is scheduled for September 25, 2025, and is being coordinated by Sophie Thorne.
The bunker is situated in Hallen, tucked away among blackberry brambles on a hillside that overlooks farm fields and the River Severn. Its entrance is inconspicuous, making it easy to miss. Inside, the chamber lacks any external views, providing a stark contrast to its picturesque rural setting.
This underground bunker is one of around 1,500 shelters built across the UK for the Royal Observer Corps, a civil defense organization. These facilities were intended to monitor both blast waves and the fallout resulting from nuclear attacks, which ultimately never occurred. Presently, these decommissioned bunkers sit empty but can occasionally be put up for sale, as was the case in the 1990s when they were sold to the public.
Noteworthy is that a similar bunker, which was listed for a minimum of £15,000, was sold for £48,000 last year in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Buyers of that bunker submitted plans to convert it into a tourist attraction, indicating a potential market for such properties.
On first glance, the bunker may not appeal to everyone. It has been described as an eyesore, with a small entrance secured by a chain and only a couple of steps leading down to the concrete block. However, the listing humorously pitches this stark underground setting as an “ideal” investment opportunity for those with a taste for historical relics.
Inside, the space is cramped and measures 128 square feet (approximately 11.8 square meters). The bunker is characterized by peeling paint, a stained floor, and minimal furnishings, which include some shelving, a small desk-like surface, two plastic chairs, and a single metal bed frame devoid of a mattress. A tiny hallway connects to the hatch above, leading to a small water closet containing a rudimentary chemical toilet.
The property was previously sold in 1995 for £95,000, which included the surrounding land. Since then, it has been separated from the larger property and will be sold independently. The current owner has never intended to use the bunker for its original purpose and finds no particular need for it now.
The upcoming auction offers prospective buyers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history, complete with its own quirks and stories. Its diverse past and potential for various uses—including conversion for modern needs—could attract interest from collectors, investors, or those looking for unconventional properties.
Background of Cold War Bunkers
Cold War bunkers were constructed across Britain during a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and the threat of nuclear warfare. Their main function was to provide a safe haven for monitoring nuclear strikes and their aftermath, though most have remained unused following their decommissioning. As many of these bunkers are now becoming available on the market, they offer a glimpse into a bygone era, allowing new owners to consider how to utilize their historical significance.
Key Features of the Bunker
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Starting Bid | £20,000 (approx. $26,740) |
| Size | 128 square feet (11.8 square meters) |
| Interior | Cramped with minimal furnishings, peeling paint, and a chemical toilet |
| Location | Hallen, overlooking the River Severn |
| Previous Sale | Last sold in 1995 for £95,000 |
| Similar Auction | Bunker sold for £48,000 last year in the Yorkshire Dales |
FAQ
What is the starting bid for the Bristol Cold War bunker?
The starting bid for the bunker is £20,000 (approximately $26,740).
When will the bunker be auctioned?
The auction is scheduled for September 25, 2025.
What condition is the interior of the bunker in?
The interior is described as cramped with peeling paint, stained floors, and minimal furnishings, including a chemical toilet.
What was the original purpose of these bunkers?
These bunkers were built to monitor blast waves and fallout from potential nuclear attacks during the Cold War.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- AOL
- Wikipedia: Cold War bunker
- MSN
- Google Search: Cold War Bunker
- Ottumwa Courier
- Google Scholar: Cold War Bunker
- TDT News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cold War Bunker
- MSN Canada
- Google News: Cold War Bunker
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
