The Victoria Tunnel

About

‘Newcastle’s Hidden Heritage’

The Victoria Tunnel runs beneath the city from the Town Moor down to the Tyne. It was built in 1842 to transport coal from Leazes Main Colliery to riverside staithes (jetties) ready for loading onto ships. In 1939, it was converted into an air-raid shelter to protect hundreds of Newcastle citizens during World War II.

A programme of repairs has been carried out and part of the Tunnel is open all year round to the public for guided tours which include fantastic sound and visual effects.

Tours must be booked in advance at www.ouseburntrust.org.uk or by email: clive.goodwin@ouseburntrust.org or by phone + (44) 0191 2304210, who will then send a full list of the conditions of your booking, which must be brought with you on the day of the tour.

Tours run regularly throughout the year. See the Victoria Tunnel website at www.ouseburntrust.org.uk for tour times. 

Visitors to Newcastle should phone and ask if any tour places are available on the day of their visit.

Experience the sounds of a wartime air raid and follow your guides underground to discover the Tunnel's role as a colliery waggonway.  Listen out for the oncoming coal wagons!

Tours take place each week and must be booked in advance as described above:

Mondays at 1.30 pm
Thursdays at 6.30 pm
Friday at 10.30 am
Friday at 1.30 pm
Saturday at 10.00 am
Saturday at 1.00 pm (and most Saturdays at 4 pm)
Sundays at 1.00 pm (and most Sundays at 4 pm)

and on Wednesdays during holiday periods

In addition tours can be arranged for private parties of eight or more on days to suit the party.