CONTROL TOWERS | RAF NORTH CREAKE
AN IMPORTANT SECOND WORLD WAR CONTROL TOWER HAS BEEN PAINSTAKINGLY RESTORED BY A COUPLE WITH A LOVE OF HISTORY, AND IT’S NOW OPEN FOR OVERNIGHT VISITORS. NIGEL PRICE DEPLOYED TO THE FORMER RAF NORTH CREAKE AND SAMPLED THIS B&B WITH A DIFFERENCE.
‘ve always had a fascination with old military buildings, growing up within touching distance of England’s east coast and the famous defensive line of World War Two pillboxes. Many a happy childhood hour was spent playing in such structures, of which there were many only a short cycle ride from home. Later, I discovered wartime architectural relics that were on a much grander scale – airfield control towers. Again, my local area had these in abundance, with stations such as King’s Cliffe and North Witham having seemingly open access for me and my pals to explore.
Sadly, many of these magnificent structures, a source of endless interest for me, are off limits today, or worse, have been demolished. One with a very bright future, though, can be found at the former RAF North Creake in North Norfolk. Even better, it’s been turned into a very smart bed and breakfast, where visitors can spend a night at the tower – and very enjoyable it is too!
