The RSPB booking site crashed due to high demand for Dungeness open days and Sound Mirror tours.
These mirrors are from before World War Two. They were an early warning system. Dungeness has all three Sound Mirror designs. You can’t see that anywhere else!
The website crashed when bookings opened Monday because too many people tried booking at once. Jacqueline Hunt had trouble with the site; she just wanted to see the dates. The website issue lasted all afternoon, but it seemed fixed by today.
Sound Mirrors helped detect enemy planes, amplifying sounds over the Channel. Queues were massive, with over 1,000 people trying to book. The 200ft structures were along the coast.
They played a key role in Britain’s defense, but radar made them obsolete. Now, they are a tourist spot. Each open day, 300 people can visit the island location called Lade Pits.
Tickets are still available, the RSPB said. The site crashed from ticket demand, which was exacerbated because other popular events also went on sale. The charity closed the shop last month because it was losing money.
The RSPB is trying to reopen the visitor center. They haven’t set any dates yet, though. They will talk with volunteers about it.
Open days in 2025 are March 8, July 12, July 27, August 9, August 24, September 6, September 20, and October 4. Events run from 11 AM to 3 PM.