Edinburgh Nuclear Bunker competition

Step behind the blast doors and uncover one of Scotland’s most extraordinary Cold War secrets. A visit to Barnton Quarry Nuclear Bunker offers the chance to see Edinburgh’s underground relic of the nuclear age.

Built in the early 1950s, it became a vital part of the nation’s Cold War defences, functioning as part of the UK’s top-secret ROTOR radar defence system. This “underground city” was later transformed into Scotland’s Regional Seat of Government – the very site where leaders, civil servants, and even the Royal Family would have sought refuge in the event of nuclear war. It was officially decommissioned in the 1990s.

After lying abandoned for several years, today it is being extensively restored, and is open for guided tours. Explore hidden corridors and operations rooms, and discover the stories of those who once prepared for the unthinkable.

Enter now for the chance to win one of five pairs of tickets for a 1 hour guided tour of Barnton Quarry Nuclear Bunker, and explore this hidden piece of Edinburgh’s history for yourself.

Terms and conditions

• A maximum of one entry per individual is permitted.
• All entrants must be aged 18+ years old. A child (aged 8+ years old) may accompany an adult as the winner’s guest.
• All winners will be drawn at random.
• This competition closes at midnight on Sunday 20 September 2026.
• All winners agree to RSVP within 48 hours of being notified, otherwise, their place will be allocated to the next randomly drawn winner.
• All winners agree to their contact details (name, telephone number and email address) being passed to Barnton Quarry Nuclear Bunker for the delivery of this competition.
• Five (5) winners will each receive one (1) pair of tickets for a scheduled 1 hour guided tour of Barnton Quarry Nuclear Bunker. Tickets cannot be used for any special events taking place at the bunker.
• Tickets can be used for any available date up to 27 December 2026. Both tickets must be redeemed together during the same visit.
• As the tour involves navigating steep steps and an uneven underground terrain, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility.
• Tours take place underground, so warm clothing is advised. Sturdy, flat, non-slip footwear is also recommended.
• Any additional spend (travel, accommodation, food and drink etc) will be at the discretion and expense of the prize winners.
• The prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
• The prize is not transferrable or refundable and cannot be sold. No cash alternative will be offered.
• The decision regarding any aspect of the prize draw is final, binding and no correspondence will be entered into.
• Barnton Quarry Nuclear Bunker is located on Clermiston Road North, hidden beneath Corstorphine Hill. Lothian Buses services 1, 17 and 21 all stop close by the area. If travelling by car, free parking is available onsite.