St Michael’s Arcade Air Raid Shelter Open House
Sun 08 Nov
|Metal Gate next to 200 Degrees Cafe
Step beneath St Michael’s Arcade into a WW2 air raid shelter and meet our Home Guard reenactors this Remembrance Sunday.


Time and Location
08 Nov 2026, 13:00 – 15:00
Metal Gate next to 200 Degrees Cafe, 31 Bridge St, Chester CH1 1NG
About the Event
Did you know that during the Second World War, the basement of St Michael’s Arcade was one of several basements in and around Chester’s Rows publicised for use as a shelter during an air raid?
This Remembrance Sunday, we’re opening the basement to visitors for a rare chance to see a small part of Chester’s underground that you won’t have seen before. While you’re there, meet our Cheshire Home Guard reenactors and discover more about life on the home front in wartime Chester.
With thanks to Eastgate Square for allowing access.
Please note: Entry may be managed at busy times depending on numbers, so you may need to wait a short while. The entrance is next to the steps up to St Michael’s Arcade and 200 Degrees Cafe.
FAQs
Is the venue fully accessible (without steps, rough ground, steep gradients)?
Yes. It is level access throughout.
Is this event suitable for children?
Yes. This event is suitable for all.
