Fan Bay Deep Shelter

About

The Fan Bay Deep Shelter is a remarkable World War II underground complex built between October 1940 and February 1941 as part of the White Cliffs fortification. Visitors take a guided tour lasting roughly 60 minutes through the arched steel‑corrugated tunnels, where interpreters reveal the daily life of the soldiers who once fired 6‑inch guns from the nearby battery. The tour also includes a stroll to the two early‑world‑war sound mirrors, and a self‑guided visit to the recently excavated Gun Emplacement No. 3, which takes about 20 minutes. The overall visit is designed to fit into a 90‑minute window, with tours starting on the hour and half‑hour at 11 a.m. until the final 3 p.m. slot. The site offers unique WWII heritage, including fossilised clam shells embedded in the chalk walls and historic metal fittings—making it a must‑see for history enthusiasts, families, and educators alike. Tickets are sold on a first‑come‑first‑served basis at the entrance; National‑Trust members can enter free of charge, though a membership card must be presented for free admission. The site is open daily (except winter closure on the last Sunday of October) and is accessible by foot from the Visitor Centre in Langdon; no vehicle access is permitted. The tours require sturdy closed‑toe footwear and offer a fascinating glimpse into wartime ingenuity.

Highlights

• Guided Tour of WWII Tunnels
• Early WWI Sound Mirrors
• Fossilised Clam Shells

Must-See Areas

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes