Chislehurst caves have existed for over 8000 years and have a rich history spanning the Romans, World War II and 1960s rock music.
Created in the neolithic period as a chalk and flint mine, the caves have stood the test of time and taken on a wealth of quirky functions over the years.
There are tales of ancient Druids inhabiting the caves and using them for rituals, although there is doubt concerning the historical accuracy of these theories.
The Romans and Saxons used the materials from the mines to build roads and buildings. They carved out new tunnels, adding to a vast network of passages underground, spanning over 22 miles.
By the Victorian era, guided tours began at the caves as society became fascinated with historical landmarks.
Then in World War I, the caves were used as a munitions storage facility due to their consistent cool temperature and secret location.
Between the wars, the caves were used to grow mushrooms, and today they are still owned by a mushroom producer.
Then in World War II, the caves took on the extraordinary function of being the largest air raid shelter in the UK, outside of London.
Local people pulled together and created a whole underground town, with a hospital, barber and a church.
Residents had to stick to a list of rules, such as children going to bed by 9pm, otherwise they risked being turfed out onto the surface where the bombs rained down from above.
Post-war tours of the caves resumed and they were used in filming Dr Who, The Mutants, with Jon Pertwee and for hosting many bands including David Bowie, Pink Floyd and Jimi Hendrix.
See some of history in action in the video below.
Featured image credit: Lucy Baldwin
Join the discussion