And no they’re not really caves! We had a fascinating tour with our guide Peter in the chilly depths of Chislehurst Caves, a local tourist attraction since the early 20th century. He explained that the caves were originally carved out over many years by hand for chalk used in lime burning and brick making and for flints used in fire tinderboxes and flintlock weapons. There is now a maze of tunnels covering over 20 acres below the suburban homes and woods of Chislehurst. Equipped with some lamps, our guide walked us through the history of the Caves explaining how they had been used as a munitions store in the First World War, a mushroom farm, an air raid shelter during the Second World War providing a safe haven for some 15,000 and a venue in the 1950s, 60s and 70s for dances and concerts. As an air raid shelter the tunnels had lighting, a chapel, hospital, Citizens Advice Bureau as well as washing and toilet facilities. You can find out more about the Caves here: https://chislehurst-caves.co.uk/
“An excellent trip this morning. And what a guide! He made it great fun!”
“Thank you for organising such an enjoyable visit … another fun outing with the WI!”