Dover's Hidden Treasure

A labyrinth of forgotten Second World War interconnecting tunnel will be open for public viewing.

16:55 21 July 2015

3,500 sq feet of interconnecting tunnels that were built during the Second World War provides glimpses of wartime life. Discovered beneath the White Cliffs of Dover, the tunnels are reinforced with iron girdens and metal sheeting and huge enough to accommodate up to 185 men.

 

In 1941, the tunnel was personally inspected by Winston Churchill before it bas decommissioned in the 1950s.

 

Officials at the National Trust, which restores the tunnels to make it available for public viewing, said that the tunnels were a “time capsule” filled with discarded ammunition, graffiti-covered walls, and even pools coupon.

 

Jon Barker, visitor experience manager at the White Cliffs, said: "This rediscovered piece of the country's Second World War heritage is a truly remarkable find.

 

"There has been no public access to the tunnels for over 40 years and so they remain much as they were when they were abandoned.

 

"We've carried out extensive conservation work to preserve both the natural decay and authentic atmosphere of the space."

 

White Cliffs volunteer Gordon Wise said: "Seeing the tunnels in their raw state when they were first discovered, handling artefacts and giving tours is like standing in the footsteps of history.

 

"To be part of the digging team, mirroring the work the Royal Engineers originally took to excavate the shelter, was very special.

 

"I can't wait to see what visitors make of Fan Bay Deep Shelter."