Dudley Tunnel & Mines

Dudley
Worcestershire
DY1 4SB

T: 01384 236275

Related Waterways:
Birmingham Canal Old Main Line
Dudley No 1 Canal

This astonishing and very narrow tunnel - over 3,000 yards in length - was completed in 1792. As well as linking the Dudley Canal to the Birmingham Main Line at Tipton, the tunnel had a secondary purpose - to support quarrying being undertaken within the hill.

Beyond the tunnel mouth the canal divides to create a network of underground channels, linking a series of vast natural and man-made caverns and basins, created as part of the quarrying operation. Reopened in 1973, it is now available for navigation: but due to poor ventilation, passage must be by 'legging' or with the aid of an electrically-powered tug.

Take a trip through the tunnels and caverns of Dudley. The Dudley Canal Trust offer the unique experience to visit five tunnels, ivy covered basins and limestone caverns including Little Tess and the Singing Cavern, all by an electric-powered narrow boat. The trips last around 45 mins and include an audio-visual presentation on the history of Dudley and the mines.

On the first Sunday of each month you can take a trip down the main tunnel from Dudley Canal Tunnel, Limestone Mines, Birmingham New Road, Dudley to Blowers Green where Dudley Canal Trust's Headquarters is located.

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