Greenwich foot tunnel, Pedestrian tunnel under River Thames in East London, England
The Greenwich Foot Tunnel is a pedestrian passageway beneath the River Thames connecting Greenwich's south bank with Millwall to the north. The interior features white glazed tiles throughout, accessed through distinctive glass-topped domes where staircases and lifts lead below street level.
The tunnel was designed by engineer Alexander Binnie in 1899 and completed in 1902 to replace unreliable ferry crossings. Bomb damage during World War II led to reinforcement of the northern section with additional steel and concrete.
The tunnel links two separate neighborhoods and brings together residents who might otherwise have little reason to cross the river. Walking through it, you experience a direct connection between two communities that face each other across the water.
The tunnel is open during daylight hours and can be walked or cycled through. Using the lifts is helpful in wet weather or if you prefer a quicker route, though stairs are available as an alternative.
The tunnel carries more than just foot traffic—it is part of a historic crossing that has allowed countless commuters and travelers to avoid the long detour around the river for over a century. The white tiled interior and distinctive glass domes have made it recognizable to generations of Londoners.
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