Victoria Tunnel

Top choice in Newcastle-upon-Tyne

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Walking Newcastle's streets, you'd never know this extraordinary tunnel runs for 2.5 miles beneath your feet. Built between 1839 and 1842 as a coal-wagon thoroughfare, it was used as an air-raid shelter during WWII. Volunteer-led, two-hour tours take you through an atmospheric 700m-long level section of the tunnel. Book ahead as numbers are limited, and wear good shoes and a washable jacket for the limewashed walls; it's not suitable for kids under seven. Tours finish back at the Victoria Visitor Centre.

Special one-hour family tours (including for under sevens) operate during school holidays.

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

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Nearby Newcastle-upon-Tyne attractions

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