Secret Bunker at Vikings Forge

Close to train station and easy walk to downtown.

Not a negative for us, but if you don’t handle stairs well, this may not be a good fit for you.

I was made welcome by the owner who was on hand to answer any questions. The Secret Bunker is quirky, a little different and has an interesting history. Being situated below ground it was comfortably cool on some of the hottest days of the year. Well equipped with all the resources needed for a short stay, it is ideal for travellers wanting a base from which to explore the area. There is public EV charging nearby (but there are parking restrictions to be aware of), also a large superstore within around 5 minutes’ walk. A friendly cat greeted me each day, although animals are not allowed inside the bunker. It is around 15-20 minutes walk to the centre of town, and if arriving by train the railway station is very close by, also there are bus stops nearby with regular buses during the day.

It was different from the usual types of accommodation. Duncan was very friendly & helpful.

The location was great, literally a two minute walk out the back of the station, and a short (ten min,) walk into Bury town centre. How cool is it to stay in a secret ex nuclear bunker and speakeasy, next to a working forge? Very cool. I stayed during a very hot spell and walking back in there was lovely, as it maintains a nice cool temperature year round. The host Duncan met me on arrival and handed me the keys. He had thoughtfully left me some filtered water in the fridge. I had everything I needed within easy reach and the hosts were available if needed but I was left to my own devices, which was great. Once inside things are pretty quiet, which was perfect for me to wind down and relax. The place was really charming, with a framed history on the wall for more information, shells built into the plaster in certain corners, (read the history to learn why,) and a great, well supplied breakfast bar, (I only realised I had been supplied with oat milk after I'd bought my own,) that I also used as a desk. Access was no problem, Duncan had told me that I would be able to get in if I came back late. All the facilities worked, including fridge, tv, shower etc. the bed was super comfortable and I slept well both nights. Bury is a lovely city with plenty to see and some great restaurants and I'd definitely revisit.

My only issue was that some of the roof beams were quite low, which is by design. This is not a complaint, but I forgot several times and hit my head. Again, not a complaint, it was my fault for not being more aware, but just to say I'm 6ft (husband of account holder,) so anyone over 5"10 needs to be careful.