Quite literally getting under the skin of London, The London Tunnels development is set to transform a labyrinthine network of tunnels, 30 metres (98 ft) beneath Holborn, into a major new cultural and heritage attraction under a £120 million plan.
What’s the history of The London Tunnels?
Spanning a mile, the Kingsway Exchange Tunnels not only served as a hideout for Londoners during the Blitz, but this subterranean complex stowed secret documents and became a Special Operations bunker in World War Two. Author Ian Fleming, who worked in the unit, is even rumoured to have based Q Branch (from his James Bond novels) on these underground networks.
These London underground tunnels have plenty of other intriguing stories, having housed London’s deepest licensed bar, a telephone exchange during the Cold War, and the terminal of the transatlantic cable, before being transferred to British Telecom in the 1980s. If only the walls could talk…
What can visitors expect at The London Tunnels?
Nods to its past are central to this new London underground attraction. In plans approved last year, the bar is set to be brought back with “shaken, not stirred Vesper Martinis” potentially on offer. There will also be a focus on “historical heritage experiences” as part of this “cultural, multi-sensory, digital experience,” according to its website.
The project – which expects to target up to three million visitors each year – aims to become a fully accessible attraction providing unique, immersive and curated experiences “in partnership with leading names in entertainment and technology.”
Visitors will enter the attraction via lifts wrapped in LED screens, while large-scale digital screens will transform tunnels into immersive walk-through experiences – concepts on its Instagram account suggest displays ranging from art and technology to the natural world.
Where is The London Tunnels tourist attraction?
The London Tunnels stretch for a mile beneath Furnival Street and High Holborn, near Chancery Lane Tube station.
The area lies at the intersection between the City of London and London’s West End, making it a prime spot for a new tourist attraction and entertainment venue.
Who is involved in The London Tunnels project?
The London Tunnels has partnered with architectural firm WilkinsonEyre, which helped to realise the Battersea Power Station redevelopment. As with that project, which has become a major destination, the development of The London Tunnels aims to “protect the heritage of the tunnels with a future purpose,” according to its website.
When will The London Tunnels open?
The London Tunnels is due to open in early 2028. Stayed tuned for more updates.
In the meantime, why not check out more immersive London experiences, including FRAMELESS and Twist Museum. Or visit more of London's top attractions.