See Inside Chislehurst Caves: Review, History, Facts, Is It Worth Visiting?

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1Are Chislehurst Caves worth visiting?

2Why were the Chislehurst Caves created?

3Life Underground During WWII

4How long is the Chislehurst Caves tour?

5How many people lived in Chislehurst Caves?

6How deep are the Chislehurst Caves?

7What famous bands played at Chislehurst Caves?

8History Etched in Stone

9Are the Chislehurst Caves man-made?

10Are there bats in Chislehurst Caves?

11What was the Chislehurst Caves overnight challenge?

12Practical information for visiting Chislehurst Caves

Just outside London, under the peaceful town of Chislehurst in Kent, lies a surprising underground world – Chislehurst Caves. These man-made tunnels were first dug hundreds of years ago and later became a lifesaving shelter during World War II. Here’s everything you need to know about Chislehurst Caves.

It was actually pitch black. I couldn’t see my hand in front of my face. But my Huawei P30 Pro has a night mode which did an okay job showing you what the tunnels look like!

Are Chislehurst Caves worth visiting?

The Chislehurst Caves are worth visiting. It’s hard to phathom how large the cave is until you wander around its labyrinth. The tour is very informative and it was fascinating to learn about it’s importance in World War II.

Why were the Chislehurst Caves created?

Chislehurst Caves labyrinth map including Romans, Druids and Saxons — This map shows how extensive the labyrinth is and which areas were built by the Romans, Druids and Saxons.

The caves weren’t built for fun – they were designed to help locals gather useful natural resources.

The caves were originally created in the 1200s when people started digging for chalk and flint – materials used to build things and make tools.

Over time, these small digging sites grew into a huge network of tunnels and rooms.

Life Underground During WWII

During the Blitz (1940–1941), when London was bombed from the air, Chislehurst Caves became a safe haven for thousands:

Close to London: Its location made it easy for many Londoners to reach quickly in times of need.

Shelter for 15,000 People: Families came here to escape the bombings overhead.

Underground Hospital: Doctors treated injuries and helped people recover inside the caves.

Community Spirit: People supported each other, forming bonds during difficult times.

How long is the Chislehurst Caves tour?

The Chislehurst Caves tour typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour. Visitors embark on a guided exploration through the subterranean labyrinth, unveiling its historical and geological wonders.

How many people lived in Chislehurst Caves?

During World War II, Chislehurst Caves served as an air-raid shelter for thousands of people. At its peak, it provided refuge for approximately 15,000 Londoners seeking protection from the bombings during the Blitz.

How deep are the Chislehurst Caves?

The Chislehurst Caves extend to a depth of around 30 meters (100 feet) beneath the surface. The expansive cave system covers a vast underground area.

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What famous bands played at Chislehurst Caves?

While the caves are not a traditional concert venue, their unique acoustics and atmospheric surroundings have made them an intriguing choice for intimate and unconventional performances. Some notable bands that have played at Chislehurst Caves include:

The Rolling Stones: The legendary rock band, The Rolling Stones, is said to have performed at Chislehurst Caves in the 1960s. This performance is often considered one of the early milestones in the caves’ musical history.
David Bowie: The iconic musician David Bowie is rumored to have played at Chislehurst Caves during his early career. Bowie’s experimental and avant-garde approach to music aligns with the caves’ unconventional setting.
The Troggs: The Troggs, known for their hit song “Wild Thing,” reportedly played at Chislehurst Caves. The caves’ unique acoustics would have added an interesting dimension to the band’s performance.
The Pretty Things: An influential rock band from the 1960s, The Pretty Things, is believed to have had a performance at Chislehurst Caves, contributing to the site’s musical legacy.

History Etched in Stone

While exploring, you’ll see graffiti and carvings left by people over the centuries:

Marks from medieval miners.
Messages and doodles by WWII evacuees.
Symbols from concerts and special events, as the caves have also hosted music performances due to their unique acoustics.

Chislehurst Cave carvings — Who knows how old these carvings are?!

Are the Chislehurst Caves man-made?

Yes, the Chislehurst Caves are man-made. Originally excavated for chalk and flint mining during medieval times, the caves have since evolved to serve various purposes, including storage, a mushroom farm, and as an air-raid shelter during World War II.

Are there bats in Chislehurst Caves?

Yes, Chislehurst Caves are known to be home to a population of bats. Bats are commonly found in cave environments, and the cool, dark, and undisturbed spaces of Chislehurst Caves provide suitable conditions for them. The caves offer a roosting place for different species of bats. Bats play a crucial role in ecosystems by helping control insect populations through their feeding habits.

What was the Chislehurst Caves overnight challenge?

Tony Bayfield is recognized as the only person who successfully completed a challenge that involved spending a night alone in the caves. The challenge was initiated by the owners of Chislehurst Caves, who offered a prize of £5 to anyone brave enough to accomplish this feat. While many attempted, Tony Bayfield stands as the sole individual who met the challenge’s criteria.

Following his accomplishment, Tony Bayfield shared his experience, mentioning that the eerie atmosphere and a sensation of something behind him breathing heavily contributed to his decision not to return to the underground labyrinth.

Practical information for visiting Chislehurst Caves

Address: Caveside Cl, Old Hill, Chislehurst BR7 5NL

Website: https://chislehurst-caves.co.uk/

Tours: Entry is by guided tour only. Tours run hourly from 10:00 to 16:00, lasting around 45–50 minutes. Visitors carry lanterns and explore themed sections including Druid altars, wartime shelters, and concert venues. Group tours and private bookings are available year-round.
Events: The caves host themed parties, ghost tours, historical reenactments, and private functions. Seasonal highlights include Halloween lantern walks, storytelling sessions, and educational workshops for schools and families.
Café: The on-site Caves Café serves breakfast, hot meals, snacks, and drinks. It’s open Wednesday to Sunday and daily during school holidays. Indoor seating is available, with vegetarian options and children’s meals.
Places to Eat Nearby:
- Imperial Arms: Award-winning gastropub with Sunday roasts and vegan options.
- The Queen’s Head: Historic pub on the High Street with British classics.
- The Ramblers Rest: Country pub with real ales and a refurbished interior.
- Denny’s Seafood Restaurant: Paella and fresh fish just steps from the caves.
- Cinnamon Culture: Upmarket Indian cuisine with tasting menus.
Where to Visit Before or After:
- Eltham Palace: Art Deco mansion with medieval hall.
- Scadbury Park Nature Reserve: Woodland walks and wildlife spotting.
- National Maritime Museum: Exhibits on naval history in nearby Greenwich.
- Fly a Spitfire – Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar: Aviation experience with WWII aircraft.
- Kelsey Park: Lakeside paths and birdlife in Beckenham.
Cost / Entry Fee:
- Adult (16–63): £9
- Senior (64+): £7
- Child (3–15): £7
- Under 3s: Free (may find caves intimidating)
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): £20
- Group discounts available for schools and large parties
Opening Times:
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00–17:00
- Open daily during school holidays (except Christmas and New Year)
- Last tour departs at 16:00
How Long to Visit: Allow 1.5–2 hours for the tour, café, and gift shop
Parking:
- Free car and coach parking on site
- Located off Old Hill, near the Bickley Arms pub
By Train:
- Nearest station: Chislehurst (approx. 5-minute walk)
- Direct trains from London Bridge, Charing Cross, and Cannon Street
Accessibility:
- Uneven surfaces and narrow passages may be difficult for wheelchairs and pushchairs
- Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities available above ground
- Visitors must carry lanterns during the tour
Dog Friendly:
- Only assistance dogs permitted inside the caves
- Dogs welcome in outdoor café area

Sources referenced:

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