So I have been trying to access these air raid shelter tunnels for a few years now as living near to them a while back but I never had any luck. More research and more visits ended up paying off, persistence is key they say. Very difficult but really worth it. I feel somewhat privileged to be among the very few people that have got the chance to see these stunning tunnels in such an untouched state, they are totally graffiti free. I don't think I have ever had a bigger smile slapped on my face while exploring a site.
It was a very very tight squeeze so sadly I travelled light and didn't take my SLR so you will have to put up with my iPhone6 shots. If I ever get the chance to go again I will try and cram my SLR into the bag.
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I travelled up with another member (medwaydan). I always prefer to stay safe and visit sites in two's or more as if a problem arises you have help.
(Not that I would ever get in trouble)
Brief History
The company W T Henley has always been highly regarded for the manufacture of cable and electrical components and was clearly the company of choice when a system had to be devised as a countermeasure to the growing threat of German magnetic mines during the Second World War. As a result, a new site was constructed in 1939 in Gravesend for W T Henley and a complex of tunnels built underneath to provide air raid shelter for the company’s employees.
With at least six entrances, the air raid shelter was very clearly signed internally to ensure that there was no confusion when looking for your allocated space. Cut into chalk and lined with prefabricated concrete, the shelter tunnels were well laid out, including first aid areas and numerous latrines – in the form of Elson buckets.
Anyway enough rambling on and on to the pictures.
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Thanks for having a ganders!
It was a very very tight squeeze so sadly I travelled light and didn't take my SLR so you will have to put up with my iPhone6 shots. If I ever get the chance to go again I will try and cram my SLR into the bag.
:I travelled up with another member (medwaydan). I always prefer to stay safe and visit sites in two's or more as if a problem arises you have help.
(Not that I would ever get in trouble)Brief History
The company W T Henley has always been highly regarded for the manufacture of cable and electrical components and was clearly the company of choice when a system had to be devised as a countermeasure to the growing threat of German magnetic mines during the Second World War. As a result, a new site was constructed in 1939 in Gravesend for W T Henley and a complex of tunnels built underneath to provide air raid shelter for the company’s employees.
With at least six entrances, the air raid shelter was very clearly signed internally to ensure that there was no confusion when looking for your allocated space. Cut into chalk and lined with prefabricated concrete, the shelter tunnels were well laid out, including first aid areas and numerous latrines – in the form of Elson buckets.
Anyway enough rambling on and on to the pictures.
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10.
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Thanks for having a ganders!
