Untold stories of UK's military intelligence to be showcased in secret Blitz tunnels
Gripping stories from D-Day, espionage operations of the Cold War, the fight for the Falklands, peacekeeping missions and the terrorist threats of the 21st century are to be told in a new exhibition with a twist.
The Museum of Military Intelligence is joining forces with The London Tunnels to create a unique tourist attraction in the Kingsway Exchange Tunnels – a former Second World War tunnel complex in the centre of London that was kept secret for nearly 70 years.
The Kingsway Exchange Tunnels were built during the Blitz as a deep-level air-raid shelter. They sit at a level below the London Underground and were occupied by the Special Operations Executive (SOE) near the end of the Second World War.
The location is thought to have inspired Q Branch in Ian Fleming's James Bond novels.
The Kingsway Exchange Tunnels will, thanks to the museum, have a permanent exhibition showcasing the history of military intelligence and the use of the tunnels by the Armed Forces.
A special exhibition will be dedicated to the Special Operations Executive, a clandestine force founded in July 1940 under the orders of Prime Minister Winston Churchill to "set Europe ablaze".
Visitors will also experience the challenge and excitement of today's complex and vital military intelligence operations.
General Sir Jim Hockenhull, Commander of Strategic Command and Colonel Commandant of the Intelligence Corps, said: "The UK has long been at the forefront of military intelligence.
"Skills developed over centuries by thousands of brave, imaginative and determined men and women have defended Britain and the world from those who threaten us.
"They continue to protect us today and will do so in the future, but their exciting and fascinating operations have remained hidden.
"It is time that, where we can, we allow our forebears to tell their story.
"I am delighted that through a partnership with The London Tunnels we can now do so, and will see in London the world's most authoritative permanent exhibition of Military Intelligence.
"The tunnels will provide a dramatic and historic backdrop for an exciting new approach to telling the story of the past, present and future of military intelligence."
The collaboration is dedicated to honouring the sacrifices of the tens of thousands of men and women who have served in British military intelligence and their associated organisations, many of whom remain and will forever remain, in the shadows.
The Museum of Military Intelligence in Chicksands, Bedfordshire, was established by the British Army's Intelligence Corps and is now also supported by the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force.
The Kingsway Exchange Tunnels will house original artefacts, equipment, weapons, documents and images in a modern high-tech experience bringing to life the history, tools and techniques of military intelligence.
The trustees of the Museum of Military Intelligence expressed their excitement about the move, saying: "This partnership with The London Tunnels marks a new chapter in the museum's history.
"In a long-term partnership with such a historically significant and evocative location, we are not only preserving the legacy of military intelligence but also bringing it to life in a way that will captivate and educate future generations.
"We are thrilled to create a space where the public can engage with the rich history of intelligence operations in a truly inspiring setting."
London Tunnels CEO Angus Murray commented: "We are delighted to become the home of the public exhibition of the Museum of Military Intelligence.
"This new location will provide convenient central London access to an important and unique collection which has until now been largely hidden.
"The tunnels, built and designed to protect Londoners during the Blitz, are the ideal backdrop to tell the remarkable and untold stories of the men and women who played a vital role in protecting Britain then and the role of the armed services protecting Britain today."
Related topics
Join Our Newsletter
