Wiltshire, UK - The (Once) Secret Underground City

There are many people out there who know more about this than me, but for those of you who know less than me, read about this exciting (used to be so secret it had code names) underground city!

Down in the darkness, a hundred feet below, there is a literal labyrinth of (for the most part) forgotten tunnels. Tunnels that seem to go on for miles and miles, forgotten and largely forbidden territory.

Only a few select brave (or as some might say foolhardy) enter this dusty, dark maze, using 'secret' passages to gain entry. Most of the entry ways that were known to them, were blocked by officials for safety reasons, but 'explores' opened new entry locations, determined to have their look around at that fabled place, eager for a bit of adventure.

Many people had perished before within these tunnels, and the rumors and stories of their spirits haunting the place are still repeated. Rumor or truth, people have gotten lost, and have died there. Some a long time ago, and some more recent. A consideration for those who would explore it's forbidden areas.

Here is a bit of the history surrounding this secret place beneath Corsham. It is (was) a quarry, covering almost twelve acres. The quarry was in use and worked until 1915, when it was taken over by the War Department for storage. They then stored ammo and other (dangerous) materials here, for almost twelve years. There was a rumor spread that it was to be a 'food dump,' distracting would be concerned citizens.

It is also rumored there is a massive bunker down there, meant for protection of government employees, in case of an emergency.

Despite, or perhaps because of, all the secrets and rumors surrounding this underground mystery, many people flock to it, eager to get their look, fulfill their curiosity. Everyone from secret explores who 'sneak' in armed with cameras and little equipment, to tourists. There is one entrance open to the public, with guided tours only and provided safety equipment, which is the best way to go about seeing this wonder.

While the history is captivating, and more than a little intriguing, it is to be said that would be explorers need to take pause. There are consequences to going in 'uninvited.' For example, there is a rare bat that lives in this cave, and if it is disturbed, heavy fines are imposed. There are also of course, the safety risks to yourself, and others, to consider. If you were to get lost (which would be easy enough to do in miles of unfamiliar territory), you would be putting yourself at great risk, especially if no one knew where you were! It's wouldn't be easy to find you, and then you are also putting your would be rescuers at danger too. If not from getting lost, there is very real danger of cave ins!

It is an exciting place, worth your time to research and learn about! It really makes you wonder what else is out there, hiding in place sight! Just please keep in mind, exploring is tempting, but safety is key. For those less brave among us, there is a virtual tour of the once secret city posted on several websites. Expand your horizons and view something new!