After two years of conservation efforts by a team of archaeologists, mine consultants, engineers, geologists, and countless volunteers, a series of tunnels built underneath the White Cliffs of Dover in southeast England during World War II opened to the public this week, welcome news for history and design buffs both near and far.
Built on the order of Winston Churchill in the 1940s as part of Dover’s offensive and defensive gun batteries, the Fan Bay Deep Shelter was designed to prevent German ships from moving freely across the English Channel. Today it represents a unique opportunity to access a rare example of wartime architecture and engineering. Able to accommodate around 185 soldiers across some 3,500 square feet, the subterranean shelter provided bombproof accommodations and storage, in addition to serving as a medical ward, before being decommissioned in the 1950s; the entrances were filled in during the 1970s.
Located on land purchased by the National Trust—a U.K. charity that preserves historic estates and natural environments—the tunnels are accessible to the public through flashlight-lit tours, after visitors descend 125 steps to a depth of 75 feet.
After removing more than 100 tons of soil from the tunnels to gain access, the excavation team discovered plenty of historic memorabilia, including bullets and ammunition, handmade clothing hooks used for uniforms, and endless examples of informal graffiti, revealing good-humored drawings as well as wartime slogans on the walls.
*Tours will operate daily until September 6, from 10:30 a.m., and Monday–Friday through September 30, or as long as weather permits. White Cliffs Visitor Reception, Langdon Cliffs, Upper Road, Dover.Tickets are available on the day or online at [nationaltrust.org.uk/white-cliffs-dover.
](http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/white-cliffs-dover/)*
