Tyne pedestrian and cyclist tunnel, Grade II listed pedestrian and cyclist tunnels in Tyneside, England
The Tyne Pedestrian and Cyclist Tunnels are two parallel passages running beneath the River Tyne, allowing people to cross between Howdon and Jarrow without getting wet. Both tubes lie roughly 12 meters below the riverbed and measure around 270 meters in length, with separate routes for walking and cycling.
The tunnels opened in 1951 to help workers cross the river during a time of industrial shipyard expansion in the region. This major engineering project reflected the area's need for better connections between both sides of the river.
These tunnels represent British engineering excellence with their original wooden escalators, which remain the longest of their kind worldwide at 197 feet.
The tunnels are accessible daily and designed to accommodate various users, including people with mobility aids and pets on leads. They connect to regional cycle network routes, making them a practical shortcut for regular commuters and visitors.
The original wooden escalators inside the tunnel remain a striking technical detail that visitors encounter during their descent. This historic feature stands out as a rare example of its kind and adds character to the crossing.
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