Mersey Tunnel Liverpool & Tours | Journey Through History
History Behind the Well-Known Mersey Tunnel
The Mersey Tunnel, an engineering marvel that connects Liverpool with the Wirral Peninsula, has a rich history spanning nearly a century. The Queensway Tunnel, which opened in 1934, was originally conceived to ease the overburdened ferry services across the River Mersey.
Designed by Sir Basil Mott, it took nine years and the labour of around 1,700 men to complete the construction. Tragically, 17 men lost their lives during the project. Upon completion, the tunnel was the longest underwater tunnel in the world at the time, stretching over 2 miles beneath the Mersey.
It became a symbol of British engineering excellence and a testament to the innovative methods used in its construction, such as fitting cast-iron lining in 24-inch segments.
The tunnel's official opening by King George V attracted over 200,000 people to witness the event, and for 14 years, it held the title of the world’s longest road tunnel.
The Kingsway Tunnel, a second tunnel, was added in 1971 to alleviate the growing traffic. Both tunnels remain pivotal to the transport infrastructure of the Liverpool region, with the Queensway Tunnel handling approximately 35,000 vehicles daily.
Beyond its functional role, the Mersey Tunnel has also been a location for popular films, including Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and Fast & Furious 6, further cementing its place in pop culture.
If you're intrigued by the history of Liverpool and wish to explore the city further, Daytrippers and City Explorer Liverpool offer exceptional tour packages. Daytrippers provides a variety of experiences, including historical tours around Liverpool’s iconic landmarks, such as the Mersey Tunnel and the bustling Albert Dock. On the other hand, City Explorer Liverpool offers hop-on, hop-off bus tours that take you to major attractions, including the Albert Dock, which is home to unique shops and museums.
While exploring Liverpool Albert Dock shops, be sure to visit House of Spells, the largest fandom store in the North West. Located in this shopping hub, our magical store offers an array of merchandise from beloved franchises like Harry Potter, Doctor Who, Stranger Things, and many more.
Visit us and experience a magical atmosphere with all your favourite things. Happy exploring!
