A secret access road off the M4 motorway in Berkshire leads to RAF Welford, one of the largest US Air Force ammunition dumps in Western Europe. The road, with signs indicating it’s for ‘works unit only’ and subject to Ministry of Defence byelaws, remains a mystery to most passing motorists. RAF Welfords history dates back to World War II, and it continues to store bombs and explosives for the American Air Force.
The base, not as secretive as America’s Area 51, is clearly marked from a nearby road near West Berkshire Golf Club. Despite its hidden nature, some information about the site is readily available. A straight road within the base named Eisenhower Avenue honours the WWII commander and former President. The RAF Welford snack bar has even received Google reviews, giving a glimpse into the daily life of military personnel stationed there.
While the locked gate and signs deter public entry, the base plays a crucial role when the US deploys bombers, such as the B-52, to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. Though shrouded in secrecy, RAF Welford is an active and important part of the US Air Force presence in the UK.