Military Truck Tour

This rare opportunity allows you to experience the thrill of riding on a Military Truck as you adventure deep into the secret areas of the site.

Test your Special Forces skills with the onboard top secret mission, or simply hold on and enjoy the ride.

The Military Truck ventures into areas of the site that can not otherwise be seen, this includes those which have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), the picturesque lake and allows the chance to view the extensive wildlife that have chosen to make the area their home.

Additional Fees apply:

£2.00  per person  (Children under 5 sitting on an adults lap are carried free.)

Land Train Tour

The North end of the site is important for wildlife and is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Access is restricted, but there is an optional Land Train Tour into this area.

The area is home to many types of wildlife including Fallow Deer, Muntjac deer, rabbits, hare, dragon fly and contains one of the largest heronry in Essex.

You will see the remains of many of the buildings used in the production of explosives including the Nitrator (where nitroglycerine was manufactured), Newton's Pool which is 12 meters deep and used for the testing of underwater explosives including the explosive used in the "bouncing bomb" and the Press House where the gunpowder was pressed to improve its explosive properties. This was one of the most dangerous processes on the site.

You will also see the remains of the extensive canal and railway network used to transport the raw materials and final products around the site – which is why it is referred to as an island. The tour lasts about 40 minutes, and you'll be accompanied by one of our experienced guides, many of whom are ex-employees or even scientists involved in the research and development carried out on this site.  

The Land Train Tour can also accommodate wheelchairs.Unfortunately this ride is not available every day so please check times and availability on arrival at the ticket desk. These rides are operated on a first come first served basis.

Additional Fees apply:

Adults - £2.00  Children (5-16) -  £1.00 (Children under 5 sitting on an adults lap are carried free.)