Scotland’s Secret Bunker, a well-known visitor attraction near St Andrews, has received approval from Fife Council to introduce glamping accommodations on its site.
The decision allows for the addition of four glamping pods alongside a retained caravan, marking an expansion of the site’s offerings to overnight guests.
According to a report by Fife Today, the application was submitted by James Mitchell on behalf of Scotscrown.
In a statement supporting the proposal, Mitchell explained that the pods would be positioned to maximize the site’s views while remaining a secondary feature to the bunker itself.
“The pods are to take advantage of the best of the views across the Forth and to be set as very much a secondary element to the bunker,” he said.
Scotland’s Secret Bunker, originally constructed in 1951 as a Cold War-era underground command center, has since transitioned into a museum and visitor attraction.
Featuring military command rooms, dormitories, and original Cold War-era infrastructure, the site has been drawing visitors interested in its historical significance.
The addition of glamping accommodations reflects a growing trend among heritage sites and attractions to diversify their revenue streams by incorporating experiential stays.
Glamping has become an increasingly popular option for outdoor hospitality businesses looking to attract new demographics of visitors, according to a September 2024 MC Hospitality Highlights report.
For attractions like Scotland’s Secret Bunker, offering on-site accommodations can enhance the visitor experience, encourage longer stays, and create additional revenue opportunities.
The expansion follows a broader industry trend of heritage sites and attractions integrating unique lodging options to boost engagement and financial sustainability.
The approval comes with a standard planning condition requiring development to begin within three years.
As the outdoor hospitality sector continues to evolve, site operators exploring alternative accommodations may find opportunities to increase visitor engagement while preserving the historical and cultural value of their properties.