Oil Mills West - Dover - Nov 2011

Derelict Places

Help Support Derelict Places:

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate links, including eBay, Amazon, and others.

nelly

Veteran Member
Veteran Member
Joined
Nov 29, 2010
Messages
1,414
Reaction score
2,113
Location
Harlow
These tunnels in Limekiln Street were most likely dug in the early to mid 19th Century to extract chalk for burning and turning into lime.

Map of the tunnels
oilmillswest.jpg


IMG_3589.jpg


The limekilns, which gave the street its name, were located nearby. It is probable that the lime and excavated chalk were used in the construction of Dover Harbour.

IMG_3592.jpg


IMG_3598.jpg


Almost cavernous in places, the extent of these tunnels is impressive and it is not surprising they've had many uses over the years including WW2 shelters and storage.

IMG_3595.jpg


IMG_3625.jpg


The tunnels are cut directly into the cliff, some are very short and end after a few feet, whereas others go back a few hundred feet and join up, the ceilings are up to 30ft high in places.

IMG_3599.jpg


IMG_3624.jpg


There is much evidence of alteration over the years, including the addition of blast walls.

IMG_3601.jpg


IMG_3621.jpg


IMG_3615.jpg


IMG_3613.jpg


IMG_3612.jpg


IMG_3602.jpg


IMG_3610.jpg
 
Last edited:
I was just about to say something smart about how long I've been waiting for this, then I remembered that you do reports properly! Excellent write up mate, and some properly beautiful photos. Had a double take at #5, thought it was me :p
 
I was just about to say something smart about how long I've been waiting for this, then I remembered that you do reports properly! Excellent write up mate, and some properly beautiful photos. Had a double take at #5, thought it was me :p

Well only if you've put on a few lb's mate :mrgreen:
 
I DO like that... lots! :mrgreen:

We visited a place under Vimy Ridge some years ago now where they mimned chalk and I heard an interesting story at the time saying it was the same strata of rock as Dover. Can't see how to be honest but for what it's worth, that's what we were told. :)
 
Back
Top