description Blackwall Tunnel Overview
The Blackwall Tunnel is a major road crossing beneath the River Thames in East London, connecting the London Borough of Tower Hamlets in the north with the Royal Borough of Greenwich in the south. The original northbound bore, which features notable sharp bends designed to avoid foundations, was engineered by Alexander Binnie and opened to horse-drawn traffic in 1897. A second, parallel bore for southbound traffic was later added in 1967. Today, the tunnel forms a crucial part of the A102 route and is known for its strict height and width vehicle restrictions.
help Blackwall Tunnel FAQ
Who designed the original Blackwall Tunnel and when did it open?
The original northern bore of the Blackwall Tunnel was designed by Sir Alexander Binnie and officially opened in 1897. It was built to carry traffic beneath the River Thames in east London.
Why does the Blackwall Tunnel have two completely different-looking bores?
The tunnel consists of the original 1897 bore and a second parallel bore added in 1967 to handle modern traffic volumes. Today, the original bore typically handles northbound traffic, while the 1967 bore handles southbound vehicles.
Are there vehicle restrictions for driving through the Blackwall Tunnel?
Yes, vehicles wider than 2.0 meters (6'6") must check their mirrors before entering due to narrow lanes in the original Victorian bore. Additionally, hazardous cargo and pedestrians are strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
How deep underwater is the Blackwall Tunnel?
The tunnel sits well beneath the River Thames, with its deepest point dropping around 50 feet below the surface. It was built using a tunnelling shield to safely dig through the London clay.
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