Ramsgate Tunnels

Wonderful tour. The Ramsgate Tunnels are an extensive World War II deep shelter tunnel system, built from 1939 to protect thousands of civilians during air raids. This was one of the best guided tours we've done. Our guide combined fascinating historical information with excellent storytelling that really brought the tunnels to life. The tour begins with the events leading from Operation Dynamo and Dunkirk through to the Battle of Britain, before exploring the remarkable 3.5 miles of civilian shelter tunnels beneath the town. Learning about the bombing of Ramsgate, including the devastating raid of 24 August 1940, really highlights why the tunnels were so important. There are also interesting explanations of how the tunnels were constructed, their connection with the railway station, and their earlier history, along with effective sound effects that recreate what bombing would have sounded like from inside the shelters. Exhibition: Small exhibition and introductory displays before the tour. Tours: Pre-booking recommended. Our group had around 30 people. Accessibility: Optional hard hats were provided, which they suggested for anyone over about 5'10" due to lower sections of the tunnels.

· via Google

Had a really interesting time learning about the Deep Shelter tunnels, and the railway tunnel too and the history behind them. Andrew, our guide, was very informative and helpful. I especially enjoyed it when we turned all the lights and torches off!! Great stories from the war and the local area. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.

· via Google

Fantastic tour lead by Kim, Trevor and John. Very knowledgeable and easy to understand, i was with my disabled mother and they supplied a fold up chair for me to carry behind her incase she needed it. They were very kind and friendly, a can of coke and black coffee for £3.50 is very affordable now adays. The shop is lovely too. Adult and carer £10 Will definitely be back on my own to do the less accessible tour. Highly recommend

· via Google

I did a bit of research before I went, and saw that the tunnels are 11°C so I took a warm top. I was not disappointed. The team are all volunteers and the guide was very knowledgeable. The history and planning of these civilian built tunnels is amazing for their design and the speedy build. They were dug (following existing road designations) by local miners in just 9 months. Try getting anything completed that quickly these days! The museum part is also worth visiting, with examples of how those that lived in the tunnels for up to 5 years after their houses were lost in bombing raids. Great value for money too - the museum part (which includes a cafe) is free to visit and a guided tour only £10 for an adult when I visited. Highly recommended

· via Google