The Greenwich Foot Tunnel, rich in history, attracts millions and whispers of ghosts.
Greenwich: The Greenwich Foot Tunnel is a hidden gem beneath the river. It’s packed with history and even some ghost stories.
This tunnel sees over 1.5 million visitors each year. Originally built for workers, it’s now a favorite spot for explorers and ghost hunters.
Opened in 1902, the tunnel connects Cutty Sark Gardens to Island Gardens. It was a crucial route for workers heading to East London’s shipyards.
Before the tunnel, people relied on the slow and unpredictable Potter’s Ferry. It was often affected by tides and London’s famous smog.
Sir Alexander Binnie designed the tunnel to improve river crossings. It stretches 370 meters underground, 15 meters below the Thames.
Today, the area is filled with skyscrapers, but the tunnel remains a key pedestrian link. Its entrances feature large domes leading to spiral staircases or lifts.
Interestingly, the tunnel narrows slightly at the northern end. This change is due to damage from a World War II bomb blast.
During the war, an air raid caused significant damage, leading to emergency repairs that left a lasting mark.
Many visitors report ghostly sightings and strange occurrences. A famous sighting includes a Victorian couple who vanish into thin air.
Others have experienced eerie whispers, sudden chills, flickering lights, and phantom footsteps echoing in the tunnel.
Despite its spooky reputation, the tunnel serves a practical purpose. Thousands of Londoners use it daily to avoid traffic and high train fares.
For visitors, walking through the tunnel offers stunning views. At Island Gardens, you can see the famous “Canaletto view” of the Old Royal Naval College.
The Greenwich Foot Tunnel has endured over a century of change. It has survived bombings, ghost stories, and even flooding scares.
Open 24/7, it provides a unique way to cross the Thames. Next time you’re in Greenwich, take a stroll through history and watch for surprises!
