Plans are underway to transform the subterranean passageways beneath London’s streets into a major tourist destination. Approximately 8,000 square meters of tunnels, constructed in 1942 under High Holborn as a wartime air raid shelter during the Blitz, are at the heart of this initiative.
These tunnels, known as the Kingsway Tunnels, later served as a base for the British Special Operations Executive, the clandestine organization that supported espionage and resistance efforts during World War II. The tunnels even appeared in the inaugural James Bond novel. Since their decommissioning in 1990, the tunnels have remained largely unused.
The City of London Corporation has given the green light to the project, though final approval is still pending from Camden Council. The plans outline a transformation of the space into a cultural and educational hub. This includes a history and heritage section that will showcase the site’s rich past, featuring a timeline and restored telecommunications equipment from its operational days.
In addition to historical displays, the proposal includes facilities for educational purposes, exhibition areas, and even an underground bar. The tunnels are also intended to host exhibitions on various themes, potentially including the iconic James Bond. The space is designed to accommodate hundreds of visitors at a time, with projections estimating an influx of £60-£80 million annually into the local economy from tourism and related activities.
The project will offer free visits to local schools, with a minimum of 40 students expected each week, providing an educational resource for London’s youth. Angus Murray, CEO of London Tunnels, emphasized the project’s value, describing it as a revival of a significant historical asset. He highlighted the opportunity to tell a compelling story, particularly about the London Blitz, and noted that the project aligns with strategic local development plans such as the City Plan 2040 and Destination City.
Camden Council is scheduled to review the application in July, which will determine the next steps for this ambitious project.
Find out more details on the project here.
Author: Jonathan Thomas
Jonathan is a consummate Anglophile who launched Anglotopia.net in 2007 to channel his passion for Britain. Londontopia is its sister publication dedicated to everything London.