Chislehurst Caves

The basics

A labyrinth of dark, hand-carved passages that date back many centuries, the Chislehurst Caves are an unusual London landmark. Some claim they were used by Druids or ancient Romans, though their lineage is unclear. What is known is that they served as flint and chalk mines for centuries. The caves were also used for ammunition storage in World War I and as air-raid shelters in World War II.

All visits are by tour, which do not need to be reserved in advance. Torchlight tours offer an atmospheric way to discover the landmark, with small groups being provided their own oil lamps to carry. The Chislehurst Caves are included in the London Pass, and it’s also easy to plan an independent visit.

Things to know before you go

• Entrance to the caves is only possible via guided tours, which do not need to be booked in advance (large groups, however, should reserve before visiting).
• Due to uneven stone surfaces, wheelchair users and those with limited mobility may struggle to access the caves.
• Children ages 3–15 and those over 60 enjoy discounted ticket rates; children under 3 can access the caves for free, but the landmark might be scary for younger visitors.
• A café and a gift shop are hosted on site; food and drinks are not permitted in the caves.

How to get there

Numerous trains run daily between London Bridge and Charing Cross stations and Chislehurst station; from the station, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the caves. If you plan to drive from central London, travel via the A102. Free car and coach parking is also conveniently offered on site.

When to get there

The Chislehurst Caves and the companion café are open Wednesday–Sunday and on most school and bank holidays (with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s). Guided tours are held every hour on the hour, 10am–4pm. The tours typically last for about an hour.

As seen on TV

The Chislehurst Caves have appeared in several TV programs over the decades, including Doctor Who and Most Haunted. The caves also served as a music venue in the 1960s, and legends ranging from David Bowie to the Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix all performed at the site.

Ways to explore

Guided lamplit tours are the only way to enter and offer an atmospheric way to explore the Chislehurst Caves while revealing their history, which stretches back at least 800 years. Take a tour to learn Victorian legends about their use by ancient Druids, Romans, and Saxons, their role as munitions storehouses in the First World War, their time as air-raid shelters in the Second World War, and more recent use as stages for concerts by David Bowie, the Rolling Stones, and Jimi Hendrix, among other legends, from the 1950s to 1970s.

Accessibility

Wheelchair and pushchair users are welcome, but uneven surfaces may make movement difficult. Guide dogs are welcome.

Age limits

Children must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

What to pack

Camera, water

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, jacket for the underground chill

Not allowed

Joining tours after they’ve departed

Amenities

Gift shop, café, picnic tables

Address

The Caves are in the Chislehurst district, in the London Borough of Bromley, bordering Kent. It’s possible to drive or take public transportation.

Driving

From central London, take the A2 or A20 southeast toward Chislehurst, then merge onto the A222. The Chislehurst Caves are located off Old Hill and offer free parking for visitors. The journey takes around an hour.

Public transportation

The Caves are around a 10-minute walk from Chislehurst Station, which is 30 minutes from London Bridge Station on the Southeastern line bound for Orpington. The entrance is in Caveside Close near the Bickley Arms pub.

Best times to visit

Tours leave on the hour, so arrive around 15 minutes before to buy your ticket.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.

Best months to visit

The cool caves are especially inviting on hot August days.

Special events

The caves host spooky tours around Halloween.