Victoria Tunnel Guided Tours - Prebooking is essential 5 Day Weather Forecast

The Victoria Tunnel is a preserved 19th century waggonway under the city from the Town Moor to the Tyne, to transport coal from Spital Tongues (Leazes Main) Colliery to the river and operated between 1842 and the 1860s. The Tunnel was converted in 1939 into an air raid shelter to protect thousands of Newcastle citizens during World War 2.

In 2008 the Victoria Tunnel was carefully repaired and opened for guided tours with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and TyneWear Partnership. Since 2010 the Ouseburn Trust has operated guided tours with fully trained volunteer guides. Pre-booking is essential at www.ouseburntrust.org.uk

Go on your own journey of discovery to learn how tough life was during WW2, listen for the air-raid warning and the sound of planes passing overhead dropping their bombs and memories of people who lived through the dreadful period in Newcastle’s history. See the rough wooden replica beds and benches, just like those slept or sat on, by frightened citizens during bombing raids. And visit the WW2 crucifix and see if you can identify the people named in the roll of honour. You may also be interested to hear about the sightings of a ghost seen in the Victoria Tunnel by visitors from a Paranormal group!!

Inside the Victoria Tunnel Experience life in a Victorian waggonway, learn how it was constructed and listen out for the wagons full of coal heading for the Tyne. Be brave, listen to the story of William Coulson’s death and be aware as you hear the approaching waggons heading towards you through the tunnel in the pitch black darkness.

Not suitable for under fives and only partially accessible for first 100 yards for wheelchair users.