Brinksway Air Raid Shelter

The Brinksway deep level shelter stands as one of three such facilities in Stockport. Designed for civilian protection, these air raid shelter tunnels were carved into the town's red sandstone foundation. Construction began in 1938, with the first shelters opening their doors on October 28, 1939. Stockport experienced its first bombing raid on October 11, 1940. The smallest shelter could hold 2,000 individuals, while the largest had a capacity of 6,500. Located just 6 miles from Manchester, locals often grumbled about the influx of Mancunians crowding the shelters.

The tunnels measured 7 feet in both width and height, featuring electric lighting and wooden benches for seating. Facilities included mostly chemical toilets, with a few connected to the main plumbing system. Additionally, there were designated areas for a warden, first aid supplies, and tools. As the bombing threat diminished in 1943, it was determined that the tunnels no longer needed to be open nightly. After the war concluded, the tunnels were sealed and remained largely untouched since then.