Blisworth Tunnel South Portal
Experience the profound darkness and impressive length of this historic canal tunnel, a journey into the past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For visibility on walking paths
Blisworth Tunnel South Portal
Best Time
For visibility on walking paths
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the profound darkness and impressive length of this historic canal tunnel, a journey into the past.
"Very long and very dark. You can walk along the walking course."
🔦 Bring a Powerful Light
Essential for walking or cycling; the tunnel is very dark.
🚶♀️ Explore the Walking Course
Imagine the past as you traverse the designated path.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tunnel Experience
Navigate the impressive length and deep darkness of this historic canal tunnel. A truly unique journey.
Canal Boat Passage
Experience the tunnel from the water, a classic and memorable way to travel through its depths.
The Walking Course
Explore the tunnel on foot, imagining the historical methods of propulsion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Dark
Consider Your Mode of Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Powerful Light
Essential for walking or cycling; the tunnel is very dark.
🚶♀️ Explore the Walking Course
Imagine the past as you traverse the designated path.
🚤 Canal Boat Adventure
A unique way to experience the tunnel's length and darkness.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Powerful Light
Essential for walking or cycling; the tunnel is very dark.
🚶♀️ Explore the Walking Course
Imagine the past as you traverse the designated path.
🚤 Canal Boat Adventure
A unique way to experience the tunnel's length and darkness.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently highlight the tunnel's extreme darkness and impressive length as its defining features. While the experience of passing through by canal boat is unique, those walking or cycling must be well-prepared with powerful lights. The historical significance of 'legging' adds a layer of intrigue for many.
"Got to drive through on a canal boat."
Stuffy
"Very long and very dark."
Jacob Scott (TheEndZombo)
"You can walk along the walking course. I imagined that people used to push their feet to move through this tunnel."
キングスライム
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is typically via canal towpaths or designated walking routes. If arriving by car, look for parking near the canal access points.
Information on direct public transport is limited. It's best to check local bus or train routes to nearby villages and then arrange onward travel or walking.
Yes, cycling is possible, but a strong light is crucial due to the extreme darkness. Be mindful of other users on the path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required for walking or cycling through the tunnel, as it's part of the canal network.
The tunnel is accessible whenever the canal is open, typically year-round. However, daylight hours are recommended for safety if walking or cycling.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Blisworth Tunnel is approximately 3,070 yards (about 2.8 km) long, making it one of the longest on the canal system.
The walking course refers to the path alongside the canal, allowing visitors to walk through the tunnel and experience its atmosphere.
It can be safe if you are well-prepared. Always bring a powerful light, be aware of your surroundings, and inform someone of your plans.
Historically, 'leggers' would push boats through by foot. While not a common modern practice, the concept is part of the tunnel's heritage.
📸 📸 Photography
Bring a tripod and a camera with good low-light performance. Experiment with long exposures to capture the darkness and any available light.
Yes, but it requires planning. Focus on capturing the sense of depth and the challenge of the darkness. Headlamps can be used creatively.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Adventurous Explorers
If you're a cyclist, be prepared for a potentially damp and uneven surface in parts. The 'walking course' is your best bet for a smoother passage. For photographers, this is a prime location for dramatic shots emphasizing light and shadow, but requires specialized gear and patience.
History Buffs
Consider visiting the tunnel during daylight hours to better appreciate the surrounding landscape and the scale of the portal itself. While the interior is dark, the exterior and its context offer a rich historical narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Darkness: A Visitor's Guide
For those arriving by canal boat, the passage offers a unique perspective, immersing you in the tunnel's history and engineering marvel. The sheer length means it can take a considerable amount of time to traverse, so be prepared for a journey that feels like stepping back in time. The concept of 'legging'—where individuals would push boats through by foot—is a fascinating historical element that many visitors reflect on.
Whether you're a boater, walker, or cyclist, understanding the tunnel's characteristics is key to a successful visit. The 'walking course' provides a dedicated path, but the darkness remains a constant factor. Always prioritize safety and inform someone of your itinerary before entering.
Historical Significance and Engineering
Historically, the primary method of propulsion through such long tunnels was 'legging.' Boatmen would lie on their backs on the roof of the boat and push against the tunnel walls with their feet, a strenuous and time-consuming process. This method is often a point of fascination for modern visitors, who can only imagine the effort involved.
Today, the tunnel continues to be an active part of the canal network, albeit with modern boats and navigation aids. Its preservation is important for understanding the development of inland waterways and their role in the Industrial Revolution. Visiting the South Portal offers a tangible connection to this rich heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit