London’s latest tourist attraction is taking visitors deep underground and back in time. The Kingsway Exchange Tunnels, a network of subterranean passages built during World War II, have been transformed into an immersive historical experience after a £149 million renovation project.
Originally constructed as a bomb shelter and later used as a top-secret government communications hub during the Cold War, the tunnels have been largely inaccessible to the public for decades. Now, they offer a unique glimpse into 20th-century British history.
The attraction spans multiple levels and features a variety of interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore recreated wartime scenarios, including air raid shelters and 1940s living quarters. State-of-the-art audio-visual technology brings the experiences of wartime Londoners to life, from the tension of the Blitz to the jubilation of VE Day.
One of the highlights is the restored telephone exchange, which played a crucial role in government communications during the Cold War. Here, visitors can learn about the secret operations that took place beneath London’s streets.
The project has not been without controversy. Some critics argue that the high ticket prices (starting at £25 for adults) make the experience inaccessible to many Londoners. Others question whether turning wartime history into a tourist attraction trivializes the experiences of those who lived through it.
However, supporters of the project, including many historians, argue that the tunnels provide a valuable educational experience. They say the immersive nature of the exhibits helps visitors, especially younger generations, connect with history in a way that traditional museums can’t match.
The attraction also includes a cafe styled like a 1940s canteen (thankfully without the rationing) and a gift shop selling era-appropriate souvenirs. Just don’t expect to find any “Keep Calm and Carry On” merchandise – the project’s historians are quick to point out that the famous poster was rarely seen during the actual war!
Visitors are advised to book in advance, as tickets are limited to preserve the intimate nature of the experience. And if you’re claustrophobic, you might want to stick to the London Eye instead – some of these tunnels can feel pretty snug!
