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Greenham Control Tower

4.6
·1k reviews·Newbury, United Kingdom

Explore the Cold War history and peace protest legacy at the iconic Greenham Control Tower and its expansive common.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Enjoy the cafe and exhibitions

CrowdMedium
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Greenham Control Tower - Image 1

Greenham Control Tower

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Enjoy the cafe and exhibitions

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the Cold War history and peace protest legacy at the iconic Greenham Control Tower and its expansive common.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A fantastic place to visit and see a piece of history that was plastered on the news through the '80s."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book a Guided Tour

Gain deeper insights into the history; volunteers share fascinating stories .

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the tower and the vast common with ease. Great for cycling too!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Control Tower

The Control Tower

Main building

Ascend to the top for panoramic views of the former 2.25-mile runway and the vast Greenham Common.

Cold War & Peace Protest History

Cold War & Peace Protest History

Exhibition spaces

Discover the site's dual role as a strategic military base and a symbol of the anti-nuclear peace movement.

Greenham Common

Greenham Common

Surrounding parkland

Enjoy vast open spaces ideal for walking, cycling, and picnics, with remnants of its military past visible.

The 'Bomb' Sculpture

The 'Bomb' Sculpture

On the Common

A unique, bomb-shaped paravane sculpture offers a quirky spot for photos and picnics.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History

Step back into the Cold War era at the Greenham Control Tower. Explore its fascinating past as a former US Air Force base and a site of significant peace protests. Booking a guided tour is highly recommended to truly grasp the historical context and stories.Reddit

Plan Your Visit

Check opening times before you go, as the tower is often open on weekends and bank holidays.Instagram The surrounding Greenham Common is perfect for walks and cycling, with free parking available. The onsite cafe offers refreshments, making it a great spot for a day out.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Enjoy the cafe and exhibitions
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunny weekdays
Why
Ideal for cycling and walks
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Art exhibitions and talks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Greenh@m C0mm0n was an all women’s anti-nuke peace camp, which sat outside of a US m!l!tary nuclear base from 1981-2000. Oak Chezar is one of thousands of women who spent time there, and participated in their nonviolent (and always creative) demonstrations for peace ✌️ . . . #funnystory #History #prank
@cruisingpod
15.6K likes • 117.7K views

Book a Guided Tour

Gain deeper insights into the history; volunteers share fascinating stories.Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the tower and the vast common with ease. Great for cycling too! Instagram

Great view of the Control Tower from above by @over_and_above_gosport #viewfromabove #birdseyeview #drone #controltower #greenham #newbury #westberks
greenhamcontroltower
28 likes • 448 views
Sunday morning ride to Greenham Common, nice coffee and cake followed by a tour of the old control tower. #cycling #altoncyclingclub #cyclelife #bikelife #hampshire #stravacycling
altoncyclingclub
14 likes • 426 views

Check for Exhibitions

The tower often hosts art and historical displays. Don't miss them! Instagram+1

Picnic Spot

The common is perfect for a picnic, with the unique 'bomb' sculpture as a backdrop.Instagram

Greenham Common yesterday. The Control Tower and the old runway. The bomb-shaped thing you can picnic next to is not a bomb, it's a paravane which would have been towed behind marine vessels to clear mines. Nobody knows how it got there or why a local firm (no longer in existence) welded fins on it to make it look like a bomb.
theonlymeclaudius
13 likes • 89 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book a Guided Tour

Gain deeper insights into the history; volunteers share fascinating stories.Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the tower and the vast common with ease. Great for cycling too! Instagram

Check for Exhibitions

The tower often hosts art and historical displays. Don't miss them! Instagram+1

Picnic Spot

The common is perfect for a picnic, with the unique 'bomb' sculpture as a backdrop.Instagram

Cafe Delights

Enjoy a nice cuppa and hot/cold food after your visit. Staff are friendly! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Greenham Control Tower for its significant historical insights and the welcoming atmosphere of the cafe. The surrounding common is highlighted as a wonderful space for outdoor activities like cycling and walking. While the historical context is a major draw, some may find the exhibits more suited to those with a keen interest in the Cold War and peace movements.

"Really helpful staff at the café. Was a glorious day weather-wise so they must have been rushed off their feet all day. Even near to closing time they still gave service with a smile. Fantastic place to have a nice cuppa after a walk."

Chris “Shiner” Wright

"Lovely place to visit and see a piece of history that was plastered on the news through the ‘80s.

The cafe itself offers a nice array of hot and cold food and a nice coffee.

Upstairs there are informative guides who explain the history of the air field back to the ‘40s when it was very active as part of the war effort"

Glynn Kinson-Hicks

"The control tower and surrounding area are part of our recent history. The volunteers have done a magnificent job of telling the story. DIY walks are helped by free maps but to get the most from your visit, try to book a guided walk. You'll go to the same places, but you'll learn much more. They're not expensive and you'll be helping a bit with funds."

Phil Brown

What People Like

Fascinating history
Friendly cafe staff
Great for cycling

What People Dislike

Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Greenham Control Tower is accessible by train to Newbury station, followed by a bus or taxi. Some visitors suggest it's a good day trip destination from London, especially if incorporating a parkrun.Reddit Check train schedules for the most convenient routes.

Yes, there is free parking available at the Greenham Control Tower, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.Instagram

Absolutely! Greenham Common is a popular spot for cycling, and the Control Tower is a great starting or stopping point. Many cycling clubs visit the area.Instagram+1

While trains go to Newbury, local bus services can connect you to the Greenham Common area. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules in advance.

The common is vast and ideal for walking or cycling. You can explore at your own pace or join organized rides and walks.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Control Tower and the surrounding common is generally free. However, guided tours may have a small fee to support the site's upkeep.Reddit

The Control Tower is typically open to visitors on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holiday Mondays, often from 10 am to 4 pm. It's best to check their official schedule before visiting.Instagram

No, Greenham Common is a public space and is free to enter and explore. The parking is also free.

The interior of the Control Tower is only accessible during its stated opening hours. However, the surrounding common is always open for exploration.

While some guided walks might be available on the day, booking in advance is often recommended to secure your spot and ensure availability.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find informative displays detailing the history of the airfield from the 1940s, its role in the Cold War, and the significant peace protests that took place here.Reddit Informative guides are often on hand to share stories.Reddit

Greenham Common is perfect for walking, cycling, picnicking, and enjoying nature. It's a very flat area, making it ideal for families with young children or those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.Instagram+1

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to get the most out of your visit. They offer a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance.Reddit

The exhibits cover the airfield's history from the 1940s, its active role during World War II, its use as a US Air Force base during the Cold War, and the impactful peace protests of the 1980s and 90s.TikTok

Yes, the flat terrain of Greenham Common is excellent for children to run around and cycle. The historical exhibits can also be engaging for older children interested in history.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located downstairs at the Control Tower, offering a nice array of hot and cold food, as well as coffee.InstagramReddit

The cafe serves a good selection of refreshments, including hot and cold meals and drinks. It's a popular spot for a cuppa after a walk or cycle.Reddit

Greenham Common itself is an excellent place for a picnic. You can find many scenic spots to set up, and the unique 'bomb' sculpture provides a memorable backdrop.Instagram

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option and widely enjoyed by visitors to Greenham Common.

While the onsite cafe is convenient, the nearby town of Newbury offers a wider range of dining options if you're looking for more choices.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the iconic Control Tower itself, the vast runway from above,Instagram the unique 'bomb' sculpture,Instagram and the expansive landscapes of Greenham Common. The tower's architecture and historical context offer many photographic angles.

Drone footage has been captured of the Control Tower.Instagram However, always check local regulations and guidelines regarding drone usage in public spaces and near historical sites before flying.

Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful golden hour shots of the tower and the common. Midday can be good for clear views from the top of the tower.Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, for commercial use or if filming, it's always best to inquire with the site management.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and the tower's structure. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the common or distant views. Even a smartphone can capture great shots.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Greenham Common is a fantastic destination for families. The flat, open spaces are perfect for children to run, play, and cycle safely.Instagram The free parking and onsite cafe make a day out convenient. While the historical exhibits in the Control Tower might be more engaging for older children, the sheer space and the unique 'bomb' sculpture Instagram offer plenty of interest for younger ones. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the common.

🚴 Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts

The Greenham Common is a cyclist's paradise, offering miles of trails and open terrain. Whether you prefer muddy singletrack or more relaxed gravel routes, there's something for everyone.Instagram The Control Tower serves as an excellent meeting point or a place to refuel at the cafe.Instagram Many cycling clubs frequent the area, highlighting its appeal for those who love to explore on two wheels.

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by 20th-century history, the Greenham Control Tower is a must-visit. Delve into its dual past as a key Cold War military installation and a focal point for the peace movement.TikTok Booking a guided tour is highly recommended, as the volunteers offer invaluable insights and personal stories that bring the history to life.Reddit The exhibitions inside the tower provide a comprehensive overview of its significant role.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cold War Legacy

The Greenham Control Tower stands as a potent reminder of the Cold War era. Originally built in the 1940s, it served as a crucial hub for the US Air Force during the tense geopolitical climate. Its strategic location and the presence of nuclear-capable aircraft made it a focal point of international attention and, consequently, a target for peace activists.

The tower's operational history is intertwined with the Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp, which famously protested against the deployment of cruise missiles at the base from 1981 to 2000.TikTok This period of history is vividly brought to life within the tower's visitor center, offering a powerful narrative of activism and the fight for peace. Visitors can learn about the creative and persistent methods employed by the protestors, making the historical significance palpable.

Exploring the tower allows you to connect with this significant chapter of recent history. The informative guides and displays provide context, helping visitors understand the global implications of the base and the local impact of the peace movement. It’s a place where history isn't just read about, but felt.

Exploring Greenham Common

Beyond the Control Tower itself, the Greenham Common offers a vast expanse of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This former military airfield has been transformed into a sprawling public park, perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. The flat terrain makes it particularly accessible and enjoyable for families, cyclists, and walkers alike.Instagram+1

Visitors can enjoy DIY walks with free maps provided, or opt for a more in-depth experience with a guided tour that covers the same areas but offers richer historical context.Reddit The common is dotted with remnants of its past, including the intriguing 'bomb-shaped' paravane sculpture, a unique landmark that sparks curiosity and serves as a popular picnic spot.Instagram

Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or simply a peaceful place to picnic, Greenham Common provides a refreshing escape. Its open spaces and historical undertones create a unique atmosphere, blending natural tranquility with a significant past.

Art and Exhibitions at the Tower

The Greenham Control Tower has evolved into more than just a historical site; it's also become a vibrant hub for local art and exhibitions. Throughout the year, the tower hosts various creative displays, showcasing the talents of local artists and groups.Instagram+1

These exhibitions often draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape, the site's history, or broader themes. Visitors can discover a range of artistic mediums, from oil paintings Instagram to textile art,Instagram adding another layer of cultural richness to a visit. It's a fantastic opportunity to support local creatives and experience art in a unique historical setting.

Checking the tower's schedule for upcoming exhibitions is highly recommended, as these events offer a dynamic and engaging experience that complements the historical exploration of the site.

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