Chislehurst Caves - Chislehurst

Description:

Chislehurst Caves are over 20 miles of caverns and passageways underneath the quiet town of Chislehurst.  Though called ‘caves' they are actually man-made, dug out by hand over the course of 8,000 years. 

The original purpose of the caves were as a mine for flint and chalk, and the last documented use for mining was around the 1830's.  Later on, during the two World Wars, the mines were used for other practical purposes, during the First World War as an ammunitions depot, and during the Second World War as a massive bomb shelter for over 15,000 people.  During the 1960's it was used as a psychedelic rock venue and hosted concerts by Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones.  In recent days it has been used as a setting for a number of television programmes including Doctor Who and Merlin.  It is also used for role playing games.

As a tourist attraction the caves have been popular since the early 1900's.  Today the caves are fully open to the public and guided tours are provided.  Other facilities include a free car park, a gift shop and a restaurant.  The attraction offers tours for schools or groups as well as being a venue for children's parties and even evening tours for private groups which can also include a meal in the restaurant.