Chislehurst Caves, Kent - © Secretlondon
Chislehurst Caves are located in the town of Chislehurst in Kent and consist of a series of man made tunnels. The caves have a rich and colourful history over the years and have been involved in industry and played a leading role in both World Wars. The caves are steeped in history with a number of interesting stories for visitors to learn more about on the tours.
Attractions
Chislehurst Caves in Kent are located approx 40 minutes from London and offer visitors the chance to see a man made heritage attractions. The Caves are a labyrinth of a number of passageways which have been man made. There is approx 20 miles of passageways and caverns that have been dug over the years forming a huge complex of caves. There are three main sections namely Druid, Roman and Saxon with each separate section connected to the other.
The mining of chalk for Lime and Flint that are used in building and manufacturing tools, it is thought the mines date back to the 11th century. The mines were last worked in the 1830s with the railway helping to make the mines accessible helping in their transformation to a popular tourist attraction in the early 20th century.
During the First World War, the Caves were used as an ammunitions depot, and became part of the Woolwich Arsenal. A gauge railway was constructed at the site to help transport the munitions through the various passages, this was used until 1920 when the army left the area. After the First World War ended the Kent Mushroom Company used the mines.
During the Second World War the Caves were used as an underground city and an air raid shelter that contained lighting, a hospital and a chapel among other things.
After the Second World War the caves have also been used as a Concert/Music venue with a number of artists performing at the caves including David Bowie, Jimmy Hendrix and The Rolling Stones. The Caves have been used as a film location over the years including in Doctor Who, Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased) and Merlin have all been filmed at the caves. Most of the subterranean scenes in the popular BBC series "Merlin" were also filmed here.
Tours are available for visitors to better understand the history and stories behind the caves. The caves with their colourful history offer visitors the chance to see an interesting an unusual attraction.
How to Get There
The Caves are assessable by both car and public transport:
By Car:
The distance from London is approx 12 miles with a journey time of approx 35 to 40 minutes.
From London take the A2 Old Kent Road, then the A20, then take the B263 then the B264 until Old Hill then turn left in to Caveside Close for the Caves.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode to use is BR7 5NL.
By Train:
From London there a regular train services to the closest station Chislehurst Station. Services are available from London Bridge and Charing Cross Stations in central London.
By Bus:
Local bus services offer services to Chislehurst Station a short distance from the caves. The route number 269 runs from Bromley and Bexleyheath and the route number 162 runs between Beckenham and Eltham.
Contact Details
Chislehurst Caves
Old Hill
Chislehurst
Kent
BR7 5NL
Telephone: +44 (0)8467 3264
email: enquiries@chislehurstcaves.co.uk
Website: Chislehurst Caves
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
The Caves are usually open from Wednesday to Sunday. During the local school and Bank Holidays the caves are open every day (except for Christmas and New Year).
Wed to Sun: 10.00 to 16.00 approx
Tour times are usually once every hour at the start of each hour. The tour time is approx 45 minutes.
Please Note: The natural features and environment in the cave means there is an uneven floor making it difficult to take wheelchairs and pushchairs in to the cave but may be possible with a strong pusher.
Given it can be cool in the cave it is advised visitors bring warm clothing to wear.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adult: £5 approx, Children: £3 approx, Concessions: £3 approx.
Under 16s needs to be accompanied by an adult and under 5s have free entry.
Facilities:
There is a gift shop that provides visitors with memorabilia and souvenirs.
There is a Restaurant that offers a variety of freshly prepared snacks, meals and specials. Visitors can enjoy a traditional English breakfast, a snack at lunch or tea with cakes.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Chislehurst Caves Map
Tips & Other Considerations
There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is wise to double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open and avoid disappointment.
When travelling remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times. Keep valuables such as wallets/purses hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to Chislehurst ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. Check the road and Traffic News prior to starting your journey.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
