Chislehurst Caves
Located in the Greater London area, Chislehurst caves are some of the most spectacular caves in all the land, steeped in history which dates back some 8000 years. In the not so distance past, the caves were home to a big musical gathering as well as being a main figurehead in both World Wars. A quirky but fun adventure that is a great trip for all the kids to enjoy and learn the history of these prestiguous caves.
The caves stretch just over 22 miles and have been dug for a period beleived to be around 8000 years. An echoing cacophonous voice can be heard as you delve deeper and deeper into the labyrinth leading you into an abyss of dark and daunting passageways. Explore the man-made creation in all its glory as you explore the three sections of the cave. The Roman, Saxon and Druid comparments of the caves are now intertwining after the caves were further dug to join all sections, making it more accessible. The caves become a maze of interlocking passageways all with their own story to tell and whether you decide to take a tour guide, or explore on your own, there is so much to learn about the caves. Fun for all the family is had and the caves are a great way to get the kids active and help them to learn about their ancestoral past, whist hopefully giving you some valuable knowledge as well!
The 3 sections, Druid, Saxon and Roman, are so called because in 1903, the Vice-president of the British Archaeological Association, William Nichols, proposed that the mines were made by these three civilisations and therefore decided to name a section of the maze to the markings that most resembled their presence. There are features of the caves that your tour guide will explain to you, but these vast ruins are worth a look, even if you don't have a guide.
As well as having such a historic past dating back over 8000 years, the caves have been used for rather diferent reasons in the last century. During the 1st and 2nd World Wars, the caves were used as shelter and for sheltering ammunition. In the 2nd war world, the caves were turned into a mini city with some 15,000 inhibitants living in the caves, with fully functioning lighting, a chapel and a hospital as well. A narrow gauge railway was installed in the 1st World War to help transport the weaponary and ammunition through the passageways. In between the World Wars, the Kent Mushroom Company used the site to cultivate mushrooms!!
Since the '60's, the caves have become synonimous with music festivals, with the likes of David Bowie, guitar legend Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones all performing here in this era.
A massively popular tourist attraction, is a great activity for all the family to enjoy. Steeped in history and tradition, with every passageway its own story to tell, be sure to visit the caves soon. A lamplit tour by the expereinced tour guides take you through each of the three sections and with many on-site facilities available to make your day complete, this is something not to be missed!
Eating Facilities - There is a restaurant on site ofering a wide range of hot and cold meals, snacks, tea, cakes or a traditional English breakfast freshly prepared. Refreshments are also available.
Children's Parties - If your child is celebrating a birthday or event in the near future, then why not have your party down at the Caves. A special tour where the children get to hear about all the ghouls thathaunt the caves, and then back to the restaurant for a buffet and some top food. To book a party, call now on 0208 467 3264.
Prices - All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Adult £5 Under 16 £3 Senior Citizen £3 Under 5 FREE
Opening Times - Each tour lasts about 45 minutes, and the last admittance is at 4pm. Holidays include Bank Holidays,and Chislehurst Caves are not open Christmas Day or New Years Day
First Tour Last Tour Days Times Term-Time 10am 4pm Wed - Sun 10am - 4:45pm Holidays 10am 4pm Everyday 10am - 4:45pm
Getting There - Use the Google Map below to help you find out where the caves are. The nearest bus is the 269 from Bromley and the caves are only a short walk from Chislehurst station
Contact details - If you require any more information regarding your trip to the caves the free to get in contact with the team who will be more than happy to help.
 | (020) 8467 3264 |
 | |
 | enquiries@chislehurstcaves.co.uk |
 | http://www.chislehurstcaves.co.uk/ |
 | Old Hill Chislehurst Kent BR7 5NB |
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