6. Anderson Shelter

If you look inside the small square fence with 4 posts, you can see the entrance to Chilworth’s Anderson shelter, it is one of just a few remaining in the UK today. As war in Europe loomed in 1938, the Anderson shelter was designed to offer UK householders protection during air raids. By the outbreak of World War II in September 1939, Anderson shelters had been installed in the gardens of around 1.5 million houses in the areas most expected to be targeted by the Luftwaffe. A further 2.1 million were installed during the war. The Anderson shelter situated on site is another illustration of the rich military history that exists within Chilworth’s grounds.

Anderson shelters were designed to be put up at the bottom of a suburban garden and accommodate up to 6 people. They are made up of sheets of corrugated iron; the shelter was designed for easy assembly by the householder. To be fully effective, the shelter had to be dug into a 4ft deep pit in the ground which often meant during winter they became waterlogged.

 

Inside Chilworth's Anderson Shelter

 

For Children: 

Did you know: Anderson shelters were free for people who earned less than £250 per year. For those with a higher income, they could be bought for £7. 

 

View of the rear entrance to Chilworth's Anderson shelter

 

Navigation: 

Carry on with the vines on your left until you reach the gate. Exit the Cherry Garden Vineyard through the gate you came through earlier and re-enter the Watch House Vineyard, then turn left and in approximately 20m you will see the next stop next to the bench. Here you will learn all about Chilworth’s resident alpacas.