Tunnel Tours
Come and discover how the tunnels were used during Napoleonic times for shelter, storage and defence. Also, discover the strategic role that the tunnels of Fort Amherst played during World War II as a base of operations.
Tunnel History
There were always chalk caves on the site. The military expanded these from the 1790s, strengthening them with brick arches at weak points. The work was carried out by garrison soldiers, aided by local contract workers.
The tunnels provided secure protection of the Fort Amherst soldiers. This meant that, in the event of a land attack, British guns could fire at the enemy the whole length of the Barrier Ditch.
Please note that as an Ancient Schedule Monument the floors are uneven and therefore may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties and is unsuitable for wheelchair users and buggies.
This tour lasts for approximately 90 minutes.
NEW FOR 2025 -Introducing our VE Day Extended World War Two tour, exploring areas of the Fort that have rarely been open to the public. This tourwill show you our newly refurbished Air Raid Precaution Centre, Memorial Garden and new exhibition in the Gatehouse. Highlighting the importance of Fort Amherst during World War Two in defending Medway.
This tour lasts approximately 2 hours
Events

Come and discover how the tunnels were used during Napoleonic times for shelter, storage and defence. Also, discover the strategic role that the tunnels of Fort Amherst played during World War II as a base of operations.
Tunnel History
There were always chalk caves on the site. The military expanded these from the 1790s, strengthening them with brick arches at weak points. The work was carried out by garrison soldiers, aided by local contract workers.
The tunnels provided secure protection of the Fort Amherst soldiers. This meant that, in the event of a land attack, British guns could fire at the enemy the whole length of the Barrier Ditch.
Please note that as an Ancient Schedule Monument the floors are uneven and therefore may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties and is unsuitable for wheelchair users and buggies.
This tour lasts for approximately 80 minutes.
Book now

New for 2025 we will be introducing our World War Two tour, exploring areas of the Fort that have rarely been open to the public. This tour will show you our newly refurbished Air Raid Precaution Centre, Memorial Garden and new exhibition in the Gatehouse. Highlighting the importance of Fort Amherst during World War Two in defending Medway.
After this exhibition you will continue through the tunnel network here at Fort Amherst.
This tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
Book nowProducts
Come and discover how the tunnels were used during Napoleonic times for shelter, storage and defence. Also, discover the strategic role that the tunnels of Fort Amherst played during World War II as a base of operations.
Tunnel History
There were always chalk caves on the site. The military expanded these from the 1790s, strengthening them with brick arches at weak points. The work was carried out by garrison soldiers, aided by local contract workers.
The tunnels provided secure protection of the Fort Amherst soldiers. This meant that, in the event of a land attack, British guns could fire at the enemy the whole length of the Barrier Ditch.
Please note that as an Ancient Schedule Monument the floors are uneven and therefore may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties and is unsuitable for wheelchair users and buggies.
This tour lasts for approximately 90 minutes.
NEW FOR 2025 -Introducing our VE Day Extended World War Two tour, exploring areas of the Fort that have rarely been open to the public. This tourwill show you our newly refurbished Air Raid Precaution Centre, Memorial Garden and new exhibition in the Gatehouse. Highlighting the importance of Fort Amherst during World War Two in defending Medway.
This tour lasts approximately 2 hours