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Victoria Tunnel

Victoria Tunnel Tour Meeting point - 55 Lime Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

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Email: [email protected] Telephone: 0191 261 6596

There are two lengths of tours offered – click on the option you want to jump straight to the booking calendar.

1¼-hour tours – a fascinating introduction to the Victoria Tunnel | £11 adults | £5 children (not suitable for under 7s)

2-hour tours – go further into the Victoria Tunnel, hear more stories with more time to ask questions | £13 adults | £5 children (not suitable for under 7s)

The Victoria Tunnel runs beneath the city of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne from the Town Moor down to the River Tyne and is now one of the must-see visitor attractions and heritage guided tours for visitors to NewcastleGateshead and locals alike. The entrance to the historic tunnel can now be found in Ouseburn , beside Hotel Du Vin . Victoria Tunnel 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.

Join the expert volunteers at Victoria Tunnel and don a helmet before setting off on a fascinating, underground guided tour. Experience the sounds of a wartime air raid and follow your knowledgeable guides underground to discover the Tunnel's role as a colliery wagonway. Listen out for the oncoming coal wagons!

The Tunnel is open all year round to the public for guided tours which include fantastic sound and visual effects, running regularly throughout the year. In addition we have special events, including “Tipple in the Tunnel” (£27 per person) wine-tasting in co-operation with Hotel du Vin and “Sounds of the Underground” (various prices) music performed by local and international artists.

Book tours via www.ouseburntrust.org.uk/vt or call 0191 2304210 during office hours Monday to Fridays.

Useful Information

Opening hours.

1¼-hour tours Monday 10:00 and 11:45

Wednesday 10:00 and 11:45

Friday 10:00 and 11:45

Saturday 15:30

Sunday 11:00

2-hour tours Monday 13:30

Wednesday 13:30

Friday 13:30

Saturday 10:00 and 13:00

Sunday 13:00

Telephone: 0191 261 6596

[email protected]

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Victoria tunnel.

Postcode: NE1 2PF

The Victoria Tunnel in Newcastle invites visitors on an immersive journey through the hidden layers of the city’s past. Originally constructed as a coal wagonway and later serving as a World War II air-raid shelter, this subterranean marvel intertwines industrial heritage and wartime history, offering a profound exploration into Newcastle’s multifaceted legacy.

Visitor information: victoria tunnel.

Nestled beneath the bustling city of Newcastle, the Victoria Tunnel stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s multifaceted history. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of industrial heritage, wartime history, and subterranean fascination, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Newcastle.

Historical Backdrop: Built between 1839 and 1842 as a wagonway, the Victoria Tunnel was designed to transport coal from Spital Tongues Colliery to the River Tyne. However, its role dramatically transformed during World War II when it served as an air-raid shelter, protecting thousands of Newcastle residents from the horrors of the wartime bombings.

Guided Tours: A venture into the Victoria Tunnel is a journey back in time, with guided tours offering rich insights into the life and times of both the 19th and 20th centuries. Expert guides escort visitors through the well-preserved subterranean passages, narrating tales of the industrial revolution and the wartime experiences, creating an immersive historical experience.

Wartime Echoes: Within the cool, echoing chambers of the tunnel, visitors are transported to the 1940s, with remnants of wartime life still visible. The soundscape within the tunnel accentuates the experience, allowing visitors to feel the pulsation of a city under siege, with air raid sirens and the hum of life above ground creating an atmospheric experience.

Industrial Heritage: The Victorian engineering marvel that is the Victoria Tunnel exemplifies the industrial innovations of the era. Visitors can witness the ingenious design elements and construction techniques employed in the 19th century, understanding the significance of the tunnel in the coal transport system and its contribution to the industrial growth of Newcastle.

Interactive Learning: The tunnel offers an enriching learning environment with interactive displays and activities aimed at imparting knowledge about Newcastle’s industrial and wartime history. School groups, families, and history enthusiasts can engage in educational programs designed to enhance understanding of the city’s historical landscape and the role of the tunnel within it.

Visitor Amenities: Though the essence of the tunnel experience is rooted in historical exploration, visitors are afforded modern comforts and amenities to ensure a pleasant visit. Proper lighting, well-maintained paths, and experienced guides contribute to a comfortable and enlightening experience.

Preservation Efforts: The preservation of the Victoria Tunnel is a testament to the collaborative efforts of volunteers and conservationists who strive to maintain this historical landmark. The ongoing conservation work ensures that the tunnel continues to serve as a living museum, shedding light on Newcastle’s vibrant past for future generations.

The Victoria Tunnel offers a unique and immersive historical journey, capturing the essence of Newcastle’s industrial vigour and wartime resilience. It provides a distinctive perspective of the city’s evolution, narrated through the silent echoes of its underground passages. For anyone eager to uncover the hidden layers of Newcastle’s history, a visit to the Victoria Tunnel is a profound and unforgettable experience. Whether you are a history buff, an adventurer seeking underground explorations, or a learner curious about the past, the Victoria Tunnel extends a timeless invitation to explore the unseen facets of Newcastle’s legacy.

Guided Tours: Experience a journey through time, learning about the Victoria Tunnel’s transformation from a 19th-century wagonway to a World War II shelter.

Wartime Echoes: Discover remnants of wartime life, immersing in atmospheric soundscapes that recreate the experience of Newcastle residents during air raids.

Industrial Heritage Exploration: Explore the engineering marvels of the Victorian era, understanding the tunnel’s role in the coal transport system and Newcastle’s industrial growth.

Interactive Learning: Engage with informative displays and activities that offer insights into Newcastle’s industrial and wartime history.

Conservation Insights: Learn about the ongoing preservation efforts that maintain the tunnel as a living museum, ensuring its stories are passed on to future generations.

Expert Narration: Benefit from the knowledge of experienced guides who bring the history of the tunnel and the city to life with fascinating tales and facts.

Photographic Opportunities: Capture the essence of the tunnel’s historical ambiance and unique construction, immortalising your visit.

Is the Victoria Tunnel open year-round?

Yes, but hours and availability may vary, especially during holidays, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended.

Can I explore the tunnel without a guided tour?

No, access to the Victoria Tunnel is by guided tour only, to ensure the safety and inform the visitors about the history of the tunnel.

How long do the guided tours typically last?

The tours generally last around 2 hours, but this may vary.

Is the tunnel wheelchair accessible?

Due to the historic nature of the tunnel, accessibility is limited, and it may not be suitable for all wheelchairs. Please contact the site in advance to discuss any specific needs.

Are there any age restrictions for visitors?

The tunnel is suitable for all ages, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there parking available near the Victoria Tunnel?

Yes, there are parking facilities nearby, but availability may vary, and some may require payment.

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Victoria Tunnel Tour: Ouseburn Trust

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Victoria Tunnel

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Victoria Tunnel - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Mon - Mon 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
• Wed - Wed 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
• Thu - Thu 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM
• Fri - Sun 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• (0.13 mi) The Cumberland Arms B&B
• (0.21 mi) Hotel du Vin Newcastle
• (0.22 mi) Premier Inn Newcastle City Centre Millennium Bridge Hotel
• (0.30 mi) Staybridge Suites Newcastle, an IHG Hotel
• (0.14 mi) Alexander Apartments Lime Square
• (0.03 mi) The Cluny
• (0.03 mi) Ship Ouseburn
• (0.08 mi) Cook House
• (0.04 mi) Dreamworld Cakes Patisserie
• (0.11 mi) Under The Bridge

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Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Victoria tunnel tour | what to expect.

 This post is based on a visit in March 2022. Please check the Victoria Tunnel website for up-to-date information when booking. 

The tours are run by fantastic volunteers (thanks Trevor and Phil for our tour who were brill) with one volunteer taking you through the first part of the tour and the second the latter. I imagine each tour is slightly different but I won't tell you exactly what happens as I don't want to ruin it for you.  There were 10 people in our group (which is the maximum number) and the tour is fairly immersive with different sound effects and various lighting used along the way, there are props and a chance for audience participation and ask questions too. It's really interesting but the best part is definitely the guides who are full of knowledge and really bring the history of the tunnel to life. 

There isn't too much walking and you only see a small part of the tunnel but you do definitely feel underground. The basic set up is 'walk and talk'. You walk along some of the tunnel and stop to hear a story or have something pointed out then continue walking along again to the next point of interest.  Below are a few photos from a small section of the tunnel which is where something above the tunnel has led to these unique changes. 

Another part of the tunnel is completely different to the rest. You will find out why......

The tunnel is 13 degrees year round and there will be times when you are asked to turn your torches off and be immersed in total darkness which links to some of the tales of the tunnel which will be shared. It's scary how dark it is and your eyes won't adjust to it either. 

I don't want to repeat all of the stories we heard on the tour but like I say, they are so interesting and a real mix. You'll hear about Byker lads riding the waggonway, see signs of how the tunnel was used as an air raid shelter and hear about some of the local heroes associated with the tunnel and the area alongside tales of WWII in Newcastle.  I love that there's a real mix from different periods in the tunnel's life and it's not all just about the war or all about the coal mining days. I personally I found it all super interesting and paced extrememly well. If you are interested in local history and stories about real people from the past, you will love it.  I would recommend the tour as an alternative date day, something to do as an organised group, something to book with friends or something to do with older tweens and teens. It's very easy to make a day of it and combine with other activities or somewhere in the Ouseburn area (I will share some recommendations at the bottom of this post). 

Onto the logistics now. I didn't find the tunnel to be too narrow - it is 1.9m wide. Everyone seemed to walk in single file with one guide at the front and one guide at the back. There is a slight incline but I didn't notice this at all, it feels mostly flat. There isn't too much walking involved and it should be manageable for most.  The tunnel is 7 ft 5 inches (2.26m) tall at it's highest point. I am 5 ft 8 and didn't hit my head once. If you walk in the centre of the tunnel, most people should be ok (although the height of your hard hat should be taken into consideration too). There are some sections where the tunnel height is slightly reduced (for example when you walk around the blast walls or the new section), but again, this is only a teeny section and not really an issue.  There is one section in the middle of the tour where you sit on seats and get to see replica WWII benches and beds and at the end you'll be treated to a ghost story which is excellent (and did actually scare me too).  You walk along the tunnel away from the Tyne for the first part of the tour and then back again for the second re-tracing your steps and you enter and exit from the same door.  The Victoria Tunnel is rated as the #1 thing to do in Newcastle on Tripadvisor and I can see why. It definitely comes highly recommended from us and if you've been thinking of taking the tour but weren't sure, I'd say go for it. I imagine you'll leave thinking it was well worth a ticket and a fab way to spend a few hours of your time.  Gift vouchers are available and would make a lovely alternative gift -  browse gift vouchers here

Where to Visit Nearby  At the end of the tour, you are given a little leaflet with local businesses where you can use your tour ticket for a discount which is a fab idea. Lovely to see lots of Ouseburn businesses working together. 

Questions about the Victoria Tunnel 

• Sounds of the Underground - music in the tunnel 
• Tipple in the Tunnel - wine tasting in the tunnel with Hotel du Vin 
• Photography Tunnel Tours 

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Victoria Tunnel

Top choice in Newcastle-upon-Tyne

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.

Victoria Tunnel Visitor Centre, 55 Lime St

Get In Touch

0191-230 4210

https://www.ouseburntrust.org.uk

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Exploring Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel

For the last couple of years I have had ‘take a tour of the Victoria Tunnel’ on my to do list, I even mentioned in this blog post that it was something I’ve wanted to do for ages! So, I’m pleased to report that I have finally got round to exploring the underground attraction that is consistently ranked as the number one thing to do in Newcastle on Tripadvisor!

What is the Victoria Tunnel?

The Victoria Tunnel was originally built in 1842 to transport coal from Leazes Main Colliery near the Town Moor down to the River Tyne. It runs beneath Claremont Road, under the Great North Museum, through the city and on to Ouseburn. If you look closely in these areas you may spot some clues to the tunnel’s existence.

This doorway near the Great North Museum is one of many access points.

The pit closed in 1860 and the Victoria Tunnel remained out of sight and mind until a Geordie entrepreneur called Thomas Moore set up the Victoria Tunnel Mushroom Company in 1928! Sadly his dream of farming mushrooms in the river end of the Tunnel was short lived and a year later the Victoria Tunnel was out of action again.

WWII plan of entrances. Image Credit: Ouseburn Trust

When World War II broke out in 1939, the Victoria Tunnel was converted into an air-raid shelter . Bunk beds, benches and electric lighting were installed to make it a bit more comfortable but it was by no means luxurious. In fact, users of the Tunnel as a shelter often commented that it was “better to be damp than dead” which I think says a lot about the conditions down there!

The tour offered a fascinating insight to this period and I loved hearing what life was like for locals from our insightful guide.

It’s pitch black in the tunnel but you’re provided with torches and the guides do a great job!

The 2.5 mile tunnel was cast in to darkness once again at the end of WWII in 1945. It remained closed to the public until 2006 when Newcastle City Council secured Heritage Lottery and Single Programme funding to restore the Tunnel and re-open it as a local attraction. Four years later the Ouseburn Trust took over the day to day running of the tunnel and with an army of volunteers they run guided tours welcoming over 10,000 visitors underground every year . They’ve also won a bunch of awards for their brilliant work!

What Did I Think of the Tour?

From meeting my guides at the Ouseburn Trust office (opposite Seven Stories ) to discovering some of the Victoria Tunnel’s many secrets and stories, I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience! I don’t want to give too much away because A) I couldn’t tell you the tales of the tunnel half as well as the captivating guides do and B) part of the enjoyment you get from a guided tour is the element of surprise.

Inside the Victoria Tunnel. Image Credit: Ouseburn Trust

We were shown mysterious features etched in to the tunnel walls, told tragic tales of untimely deaths and educated about the engineering feats of this incredible part of Newcastle’s rich history. I should give a shout out to Donald and Pete who were the guides on the day of my visit, they really were super friendly and interesting to listen to!

The first part of the tour takes place above ground, offering a fascinating insight to the history of Ouseburn

The two hour time slot felt like the perfect duration for me, long enough to soak up the atmosphere and take in all the information, without the walk becoming too tiring. However, shorter one hour tours are also available if you simply want a sneak peek.

The Victoria Tunnels can be part of a wonderful day out in Ouseburn Valley

As the meeting point for the tours is in the heart of the Ouseburn Valley you also get to learn about this area’s diverse and fascinating history. It’s the perfect activity to add in to a day out in Ouseburn which can also include a visit to Ouseburn Farm , Seven Stories , Stepney Bank Stables , the Biscuit Factory and  the many wonderful places to eat and drink (I highly recommend Thali Tray ! The critically acclaimed Cook House is also based here).

This part of Newcastle has so much to offer and has a distinct and cool vibe all of its own!

Useful Info if You Fancy Experiencing the Victoria Tunnel for Yourself

If I’ve inspired you to book a tour of the Victoria Tunnel for yourself, here’s some practical and handy info to help you make the most of your visit.

Ticket Info:

I paid £9 for a two hour tour which I thought was great value! Tickets for 8-15 year olds are £4 but the attraction isn’t suitable for those under 8.

There’s usually at least nine or ten 2 hour tours of the Victoria Tunnel every week at various times.  The Ouseburn Trust website has a handy calendar with a live booking system so you can see what slots are available and when. I’d recommend booking a week or so in advance, especially for weekend slots as these are very popular.

The one hour tours I mentioned usually take place at weekends and in school holidays. Tickets are £7 for adults and £4 for 8-15 year olds.

If you prefer to book by phone, give the Ouseburn Trust a call on 0191 230 4210.

Getting There:

There’s quite a few parking spaces available in and around Ouseburn Valley, I usually park under one of the arches at the bottom of Stepney Bank, I think it’s about a quid an hour and you can pay by card. These parking spots are harder to get on weekends so you might want to consider going by bus. Loads of services from the city centre stop at the top of Stepney Bank by the Tanners Pub. The nearest Metro stop is Manors, about a ten minute walk away.

The guides will escort you back to the Ouseburn Trust office at the end of your tour, so you can leave luggage there if you wish. Alternatively you can say goodbye at the tunnel entrance/exit on Ouse Street.

Conditions Inside the Tunnel:

I was worried that it might be really cold in the Victoria Tunnel but weirdly there’s a constant temperature of 12 degrees down there! It was pitch black without lighting and the ceiling is quite low in places but visitors are provided with hard hats and torches. Eating and drinking is not allowed and there aren’t really any breaks or places to sit so you’ll need to be comfortable with being on your feet for a couple of hours.

What to Wear:

The ground is uneven and wet in places so sensible shoes are a must. Some of the walls inside the Victoria Tunnel are limewashed  and as it’s quite a confined place I’d recommend a jacket that can be washed, certainly don’t wear your best clobber!

The Ouseburn Trust have negotiated some discounts at nearby eateries so you can refuel for less before or after your tour. Offers include 20% off food at The Cluny, 10% off hot drinks and snacks in the Seven Stories Cafe and 25% off all food at The Tyne Bar. You just need to show your tour ticket to get the savings.

Ouseburn Trust Events:

As well as the popular one and two hour tours of the Victoria Tunnel, the Ouseburn Trust also offer a variety of other events.

Every Saturday morning (14th March – 19th Dec) they invite you to go ‘Back to the Future’ and enjoy a guided walk around Ouseburn. These events start at 10.30 and cost £5 per person.

There are also quirky events like photography workshops and wine tasting in the tunnel , there are even occasional concerts planned underground in the tunnel! These special events sell out quickly so keep an eye on the Ouseburn Trust website or their Facebook page and book in advance to avoid disappointment!

Happy to tick Victoria Tunnel tour off my list of things to do in Newcastle!

I do hope you enjoyed this blog post, I’d love to hear if you’ve been on a tour of the Victoria Tunnel or plan to visit in the future so please leave me a comment below!

Thanks for sharing this – we have a one hour tour booked next Sunday. I am unsure if it will still go ahead but I have my fingers crossed!

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Discover the Victoria Tunnel in Newcastle upon Tyne

March 5, 2024

Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel is one of the city’s most under-the-radar (and under-the-ground) attractions.

And I should know, cos I’m from there (the city, not the tunnel, obviously).

This hidden gem is fun, exciting, interactive, spooky and educational… so the tunnel-riffic attraction ticks a lot of varied boxes.

But what is it? How exactly do you get inside? And what happens on a visit?

In this dimly-lit guide, I’ve unpacked all that and more: here’s everything you need to know about visiting Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel.

What is Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel?

A shorter tour of newcastle’s victoria tunnel, a longer tour of newcastle’s victoria tunnel, a tunnel tour combined with a food tour, bonus options: other ways to see the tunnel (or its nearby neighbors), what to expect during your visit to newcastle’s victoria tunnel visit, pro tips for visiting newcastle’s victoria tunnel (and things to know before you visit newcastle’s victoria tunnel), before you go.

It’s lots of things.

Originally, Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel was an innovative underground wagonway, built beneath the city to rapidly speed up the transport of coal (this part of the region was once an industrial powerhouse, with coal mines dotted around many parts of the place) .

The tunnel stretched (and stretches!) from the Town Moor (that’s the big city center park in the west of the city) all the way to the Tyne River. That’s a lengthy total of around 2.4 miles (3.9 km).

It started operating in 1842, and ceased its coal-shuttling operations in the 1860s.

But after the Victoria Tunnel stopped being a working wagonway, it then became lots of other things.

In 1928, a local entrepreneur decided to embark upon a mushroom-growing business inside the tunnel. It failed.

Then, in World War 2 (that was from 1939 to 1945, in case you’re not up on your history) , the place was repurposed again. This time, it became an air raid shelter, and was decked out with beds, toilets, blast walls, and more.

Around 30 years after the war ended, part of the tunnel was then transformed into a sewer.

Then around 15 or 20 years ago, the place underwent its final transformation … and became a tourist hotspot. It’s now one of the most interesting tourist attractions in all of Newcastle—but not enough people know about it (most locals haven’t even visited the place!) .

Those who have visited know just how good it is. Sitting inside the Ouseburn area of the city, it’s won a whole load of different awards (both regional and international) , it’s been featured on TV shows, and it’s consistently recommended as the #1 Newcastle attraction on TripAdvisor .

And get this: according to the tunnel’s official site , “in 2022, the tunnel was awarded the Traveller’s Choice Award [from TripAdvisor], and was recognised for being in the 10% attractions in the world.”

So don’t just take my word for it—it’s definitely worth a visit!

How to Visit Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel

You can’t just turn up and wander around the place yourself, no matter how much you might want to. It’s pretty big and pretty dark, so you might get lost, or die, or end up in a battle with a giant monster rat thing. Or something.

So, instead, you have three main options. They are:

• a shorter tour,
• a longer tour,
• and a tunnel-and-food tour.

Here’s more information:

If you’re interested in the tunnel, but admittedly not massively interested in the tunnel, this is the tour for you.

During these shorter 75-minute experiences , you’re guided around the tunnel by two of the volunteers who work for The Ouseburn Trust (the charity that operates and manages the place).

You’ll learn about the mining history of the region, and the tunnel’s role in that history. You’ll also get some brief insights into when it was repurposed into an air raid shelter…. and hear a small few spooky stories (some people* reckon they’ve seen ghosts here).

*by ‘people,’ I mean ‘gullible idiots.’

If you’re really interested in history and heritage and all that stuff, this is the tour for you.

The 2-hour tours take you deeper into the tunnel . You learn more about the tunnel’s role in World War 2, you’ll hear a few more paranormal stories, and you get more time to ask questions.

This is the tour I recommend.

The Ouseburn is most famous for being one of Newcastle’s eating-and-drinking epicenters . So visiting the Ouseburn area without eating and drinking there is a very stupid idea.

During this excellent experience , you can quickly cram in lots of tasty highlights on a short-but-brilliant tour. You see the tunnel, you learn about the tunnel, and (this is the important part!) you also eat your way through lots of gastronomic Ouseburn highlights. Massively recommended.

If you want to do something a little different, you have other unique options for seeing and exploring the tunnel (and other nearby attractions and interesting areas) . They are:

• A virtual tunnel tour : if for whatever reason, you don’t want to leave your house (or enter the tunnel), you can do so online instead. For these Virtual Victoria Tunnel Tours , you just need a tablet or computer (or a phone!) and a nice comfy place to sit down.
• A photography session : Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel is all strangely-shaped and unusually-illuminated, so it’s great for grabbing interesting snaps. On a photography tour , you can take along your camera to test out your skills. This is a really unusual artistic experience, and a popular gift idea.
• Sounds of the Underground : the Ouseburn is the artiest, edgiest, and hippest part of the city. So, of course, the area’s tunnel is sometimes repurposed into an underground (both literally and figuratively) music venue—hosting both international and local names. If you like music and unique experiences, you won’t find much better than this.
• A walking tour of the entire Ouseburn . If you’re more interested in the whole Ouseburn area (and not just the tunnel), get yourself on one of these tours instead . Over the course of 90 minutes, you’ll wander through the little but fun-packed place, learning about people, places, history, heritage, and recent regeneration.

And just like that, we’ve crept and clambered our way through Newcastle’s Victoria Tunnel. Thanks for joining us.

For guided and self-guides tours in the region, read my selection of the best tours in Newcastle upon Tyne .

If you want to know anything else about adventures in and around the city, stroll on over to our guides on the best day trips from Newcastle , the best things to do there , and the regional (and ridiculous!) accent, the Geordie accent .

Thanks for reading, thanks for checking out Travelness, and thanks for being you. See you next time!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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Tunnel Tours

• 51 Lime Street

Go on your own journey of discovery!

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.

What to expect

Learn how tough life was during World War Two; listen for the air-raid warning, the sound of planes passing overhead dropping their bombs, and hear the memories of people who lived through this 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. Visit the World War Two crucifix and see if you can identify the people named in the roll of honour.  

During your tour, you’ll also find out which Newcastle landmarks you are walking beneath, including the unique chance to walk underneath Hadrian’s Roman Wall.

Available tours

Victoria Tunnel | 1¼ hour tour

Victoria Tunnel entrance on Ouse Street

Victoria Tunnel | 2 hour tour

Purchase gift vouchers, purchase the perfect experience for friends and family. follow the link to buy your vouchers., what they say.

Just done the 1hr 15min tour from Ouseburn. Great afternoon, Mike was our tour guy, a real character!! He was really friendly and full of knowledge. Great to see some of Newcastle’s history.

We (myself, my husband & our 13 year old son) had a fantastic tour of the Victoria Tunnel. Our tour guide Kev was great, very informative & knowledgeable of not only the tunnel but the surrounding area. Would highly recommend.

Exceeded expectations! This was a storytelling experience as much as a historical visit. I’m not a big history fan, but history told through stories comes to life. The tour guides, Kev and Peter, were warm and engaging and hilarious. Highly recommended.

Accessibility

Victoria Tunnel has level access throughout but 50 yards into the Tunnel there are a series of World War Two blast walls – it is impossible to take wheelchairs, prams or buggies beyond this point.  We can offer a virtual Victoria Tunnel experience [link] as an alternative way to take a guided tour.  

At the furthest point of the two-hour tour there is a very steep ramp, we recommend that any visitor with difficulty walking takes the opportunity to have a seat at this point for the ten minutes that the Tour spends going up and back down.  

There is a siren at the start of the tour and an audio experience at the end of the tour, please let the guides know at the start of the tour if you are sensitive to noise.  

Sign language interpretation can be provided by arrangement.  

If you would like to discuss your particular access requirements, please call 0191 261 6596 or email [email protected]  

More Victoria Tunnel events

Sounds of the Underground

Tipple in the Tunnel

0191 261 6596

@ouseburntrust

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• North East Days Out
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Victoria Tunnel Tour | What to Expect

 This post is based on a visit in March 2022. Please check the Victoria Tunnel website for up-to-date information when booking. 

Questions about the Victoria Tunnel 

• Sounds of the Underground - music in the tunnel 
• Tipple in the Tunnel - wine tasting in the tunnel with Hotel du Vin 
• Photography Tunnel Tours 

The tunnel looks impressive. But is it safe to take a tour? And is there are any safety measures just in case if any mishap struck?

Small-group Ouseburn Food Tour with Tour of Victoria Tunnel

• Alcoholic Beverages
• Coffee and/or Tea
• Entry/Admission - Newcastle upon Tyne
• Victoria Tunnel Tours, Victoria Tunnel Entrance, Ouse St, Byker, Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PF, UK Meet your tour guide outside of the tunnel for 10:30am
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for pregnant travellers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Victoria Tunnel Tours Victoria Tunnel Entrance, Ouse St, Byker, Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PF, UK Meet your tour guide outside of the tunnel for 10:30am See address & details
• 1 Victoria Tunnel Tours Stop: 45 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Newcastle upon Tyne Stop: 3 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Cpt-Vorticity 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Stag do! The standard five green circles of rating that TripAdvisor allow you to select is not enough when it comes to the experience myself and my friend have just had. I took my mate, Lewis, out to Durham for the food tour and it was absolutely fantastic. Julie, our tour guide, was brilliant and told us some really cool stories about the city that we didn't know. Anyone reading this. Do it. Birthdays, stags, or just some something new. Do it... My score: 11/10. Thanks for making my mate's stag a great one. Dave Read more Written 20 April 2024
• MarjorieJ_12 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Christmas Gift From meeting our tour guide Andrew to the very end everything was fantastic. We started off in the Grainger Market where we sampled local beers and Indian food as well as oysters. We visited Blackfriars, a Tapas restaurant on Dean Street and then dessert in the French Quarter. All food was delicious and a member of our group was gluten intolerant which was not an issue for any of he venues. I will definitely try other tours and think this is a perfect gift. Andrew was friendly and told us about local architecture etc. but was never boring. Read more Written 18 April 2024
• amyd1981 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Another fabulous Triple A tour! Another fabulous tour! I’ve previously done the Newcastle tour with Triple A and loved it so me and my friend travelled from opposite ends of the UK to do the Durham one. Absolutely loved it! Definitely no scrimping on the food or drink. We started off with a variety of homemade sausage rolls and a Baileys iced coffee from a quirky gift shop/deli. Then a lock in at the wine shop in the market. Loved this place! Then Mexican tapas - best margaritas! Then Chinese fusion and more wine. And finished with some Marco Pierre White desserts (and more wine). There were only four of us in the group but think that was lovely as we all got on well. I can’t fault these tours. Will definitely be doing more! Shout out to Donna, our tour guide. Perfect balance of a little bit of local info and leaving us to enjoy the food and drink at each venue. 10/10 Read more Written 14 April 2024
• Adam M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Food, Drinks and fabulous friends What a fabulous day !!!! Was surprised with this tour for my birthday treat and what a treat it’s been !! I’ve been to Durham countless times but it’s been so lovely having a fountain of knowledge in the form of our incredible tour guide Donna !! Plentiful and amazing food in cracking venues off the beaten track with tasty drinks to wash it down Also great gluten free options !! Thank you Donna you really looked after us we loved it from the Newcastle birthday crew 10/10 x Read more Written 13 April 2024
• annieaU5640LM 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Food, Drink and Friends I bought this for a Christmas present for my husband and didn't really know what to expect. We weren't disappointed, we had an amazing day. Our guide was Andrew who met us at the monument and immediately had us all relaxed and raring to go. He gave us a talk at every stop about the food,drink and places of interest. Every thing as perfect. We net some great people. Overall a fantastic experience and can't wait to do it again. Read more Written 12 April 2024
• RC7926 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An interesting way of Exploring Newcastle - Highly recommended It was a nice experience to explore Newcastle through the different foods loved by Geordies. The guide for the day was Andy. He was full of anecdotes and interesting facts about the city. Our group was small but big on laughs. Highly recommended. The most memorable part of the food tour for me was the dessert. It was a nice way to end an amazing experience. Who would have thought you can pair dessert with wine? Genius! Read more Written 4 April 2024
• D6713RRsusanm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous foodie experience What a fabulous street food tour. I bought as a gift for my hubby for Valentine's day. Our tour guide Avril was brilliant. Her knowledge of the Grainger Market and Newcastle was amazing. Such a lovely lady. We started off with King Baby Bagels which were absolutely beautiful. There were 3 other people in our group - all lovely. We moved on to Chinese dumpings very nice. Watch out for the spicy 🔥🥵 one. Then we were offered a fresh oyster from the local fishmonger. The food was plentiful and kept coming. Next it was Geordie bangers for sausage rolls, pork pie, pickles, and of course a banger. Was so full fit to burst. Then on to the local brewery for tasters and nibbles from Snackawalla. Superb. Even got a pudding to take home with us. I would highly recommend to everyone and a great price Read more Written 15 March 2024
• EG77777 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic - would highly recommend to anyone We had a fantastic time on our tour in Newcastle. The tour itself is really good value. I’d imagine it would cost nearly the price of the ticket for the food alone (3 courses + snacks + drinks) but you also get the added bonus of having a guide, sampling different places without need for booking etc. Nina our guide was lovely and the people we were with on the tour were such an interesting bunch of people. It was one of the highlights of our trip! Many thanks Read more Written 6 March 2024
• alastaire2019 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great food tour Great tour around Newcastle and some fantastic bars and restaurants. Ali our guide was really informative and friendly, we had some amazing food and very good wine! Would definitely recommend for visitors and locals. Read more Written 23 February 2024
• nmyler64 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great food and drinks. Really interesting tour. Andy was very engaging and good variety of food and drink. A fabulous way to spend an afternoon in Newcastle. Would highly recommend. Read more Written 18 February 2024
• Dondonthechef 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Ouseburn food tour My husband and I were lucky enough to be gifted an Ouseburn food tour. The day started with a fascinating walk through the Victoria tunnel hearing about the history of this unique landmark. Then onto Brinkburn brewery, our guide Dave was so knowledgeable about the Ouseburn valley and its historic buildings. Miso was the next stop sampling the small plates of Japanese cuisine and generous glasses of my favourite Picpoul wine. Anna Hedworths cookhouse was next, where the group had delicious family style servings to share together. We finished with dessert in Ernest. I can’t recommend a food tour enough. Such a wonderful convivial way to spend a day as a couple and meet new people. Amy who runs the business gave clear information and updates about all the timings of the day and where to meet etc We will most definitely be booking on the other tours on offer in the future! Read more Written 7 February 2024
• Kristy O 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wine & Cheese Tour We had a fantastic day on our Ultimate Wine & Cheese Tour of Newcastle. We met our lovely guide Avril, who was fantastic. As we walked between our venues Avril told us about the local history of Newcastle and a few quirky bits of knowledge too. Each venue we went into made us feel at home, they then informed us about the various cheese & wines we were about to devour. The quantity and quality of the food and drinks we had throughout the day was excellent. The trip was value for money, guided around Town by the excellent Avril and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We will be recommending Triple A Tours to all our friends and family. See you again, Gary & Kristy. Read more Written 3 February 2024
• Exploration734967 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An excellent tour of Durham A Christmas present for my wife and what a fascinating wander around Durham. Our guide Julie was very knowledgeable and a very professional friendly guide. The first stop delivered an excellent breakfast butty in sourdough bread. The wine shop in the market provided great wine and an interesting conversation about wines. The restaurant that we had not come across before was the Barrio Comida and what an amazing find. Great food and a fantastic view of the cathedral. With 2 more stops on our tour, we were absolutely stuffed by the time we had finished and didn't eat again until the following day. We even had to take a doggy bag away with us from our dessert stop. Julie also shared some interesting facts and stories about Durham during the tour. If you are in Durham and looking for a gentle wander around the city with regular stops for food and drink then this is the tour for you. The great news is that there are also food tours in Newcastle which are now on our to do list Read more Written 2 February 2024
• tonywJ6176LS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Durham Food Tour A lovely family day in Durham with Triple A Food Tours. From a unique 'artisan' cafe breakfast to Mexican tacos to Asian fusion and finally to delicious deserts all accompanied by plentiful tipples. Durham is a great city to wander and Julie our guide, gave us lots of little sound bites on the history surrounding us. This was my third Triple A Food Tour and my favourite, my wife (vegetarian) preferred the Newcastle Tour but to be honest they've all been brilliant. Great tour with great food, tea, hot toddy's, margaritas, wine and a charming guide, perfect!! Eight of us all scored it 10/10. Looking forward to Ouseburn March 24. Read more Written 23 January 2024
• Healthman101 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent food & informative trip We met our Guide, Julie, in the Market Square of Durham. She was bang on time and started with some great info about the history of the Market and the Square. We then went for a “breakfast” bacon sandwich with locally sourced produce at “Discovering Durham - Northern Stores and Deli” followed by a visit to the Indoor Market for warm drink from Market Hall Wines.It was then up to Durham Cathedral, where Julie pointed out many interesting things and visited two great local food venues, followed by afternoon tea Overall the experience was excellent, Julie very knowledgeable and it gave us an appetite to try the similar local tours Read more Written 22 January 2024

More to explore in Newcastle upon Tyne

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Small-group Ouseburn Food Tour with Tour of Victoria Tunnel provided by Triple A Food Tours