Beneath the bustling platforms of Brighton Railway Station lies a network of tunnels and hidden spaces, one of which has been home to a rifle range since the mid-20th century. Originally constructed as a goods tunnel in the 19th century, this subterranean passage was repurposed during the Second World War into a control centre for the station’s operations. Following the war, the tunnel found a new lease on life as a rifle range, serving both recreational shooters and local clubs.
The Imperial Rifle Club was among the prominent shooting clubs associated with this range. Active from the World War II era to now, the club has provided a venue for shooting enthusiasts in the Brighton area.
The rifle range itself is situated within the disused goods tunnel that was originally part of the station’s goods yard infrastructure. This tunnel, no longer in use for railway operations since the 1850s, was transformed into a shooting range in the 1940s, taking advantage of its elongated and secluded structure ideal for target practice.
In addition to its recreational use, the rifle range played a role during World War II. The tunnel complex beneath Brighton Railway Station was converted into communication rooms and control centres to support wartime operations. The rifle range was utilised by the Home Guard for training and preparedness, contributing to local defence efforts during the conflict.
Today, the rifle range beneath Brighton Railway Station stands as a testament to the adaptive reuse of urban spaces, reflecting the city’s imagination and rich history.
Lead image of the Rifle Range by Mike Anton.
