Visit Bletchley to see the place that shot to fame in the 1940s as the location of the Enigma codebreakers who changed the course of world history. This urban district in the city of Milton Keynes dates back to the 12th century, when it was a thriving market town. Today Bletchley blends national history with natural attractions and soccer.
High on the itineraries of visitors to the town is a tour of Bletchley Park. This regal countryside estate was where Allied codebreakers worked in secrecy to decipher enemy messages sent via the Enigma encryption device. Step inside huts and the Victorian-style Bletchley Park Mansion to observe machines used to break the codes. Try your hand at codebreaking via interactive games and browse exhibitions with World War II themes.
Within the grounds of the park is The National Museum of Computing. It boasts one of the world’s biggest collections of working computers from the 1940s onwards. Learn about themes such as air traffic control, the internet and message deciphering. See Colossus, the world’s first electronic computer, which cracked wartime messages between Hitler and his generals.
Sports fans should head to the 30,000-capacity Stadium MK to attend a professional soccer match. The stadium’s indoor Marshall Arena hosts concerts, conferences and themed parties. Enjoy high-speed fun at Formula Fast Indoor Karting.
The town has abundant natural attractions on its doorstep. Spot birds, butterflies, fox, squirrels and varied plant species along trails that weave around Blue Lagoon Natural Reserve. Breathe in the sweet aromas of herbs and roses at West Bletchley Sensory Gardens.
A section of the Grand Union Canal flows through the eastern edge of the town. Stroll the waterfront pathway and watch as colorful longboats cruise by. Set between the canal and the River Ouzel, Waterhall Park is another pleasant place for walks amid nature.
Direct train services connect Bletchley with Birmingham and London. Extend your vacation in this region by visiting Gulliver's Land Theme Park Resort, Ouzel Valley Park and other attractions in Milton Keynes.
