GLENFIELD TUNNEL

The Glenfield Tunnel - built in 1829 and the longest railway tunnel in the world when opened in 1832, was one of the world's first underground rail routes used by steam trains to carry coal from North West Leicestershire's pits to the city.

It shut in the 1960s when British Rail sold it to Leicester City Council for £5. The tunnel is now open to visit in selective months, 400 yards of the perfectly maintained tunnel can be explored.

Guided Tours 2025

Public tours of the tunnel are taking place during weekends in July and September and are available to book through the [Ticket Source website.]

In addition there will be train rides within the tunnel on a miniature railway along a 70 metre track, to celebrate the very first running in the world of a train 200 years ago. Tickets for this are now available to book on the [Ticket Source website.]

FAQs

Please note that there are no facilities at the tunnel, there are no toilets or parking spaces and the site is unsuitable for disabled access due to the steep steps and terrain within the cutting itself. Car parking is available at County Hall which is a 10 minute walk from the tunnel via an underpass and path with steps into the cutting itself.

Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed in the tunnel.

The tour consists of a walk of one mile and is not suitable for small children due to the distance and conditions. Not suitable for push chairs due to the ground conditions.

Miniature Railway Experience

The train track is approximately 100 metres long, there and back takes about 10 minutes.
This journey is a separate booking to the tunnel walking tours which have a different booking site.
Children under 4 years of age are not allowed on the railway due to our insurance restrictions.

The main entrance for [Glenfield Tunnel tours] is located at Stephenson Court, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8BY. Alternatively, the [New Parks end entrance] is behind Farmer and Carlisle on Groby Road, also at the back of Copeland Close. Tours are run by the [Leicestershire Industrial History Society (LIHS)] from May to October, with tours generally starting near the Stephenson Court entrance on Station Road, or the Old Rectory car park on Kirby Road.

For Tours by the LIHS

  • Meeting Point: Tours generally begin at Stephenson Court, Glenfield, LE3 8BY, which is near the railway pub on Station Road.
  • Alternative Meeting Point: Some tours, like those with the Leicester De Montfort Rotary Club, meet at the Old Rectory car park, which is opposite the Forge Inn on Kirby Road, Glenfield LE3 8DG.

Other Information

  • Other Entrance: You can also find another entrance on the New Parks side of the tunnel, behind Farmer and Carlisle on Groby Road.
  • Booking: Tours are free but donations are appreciated and go towards safety equipment and educational materials.
  • Getting There: You can reach the Stephenson Court entrance by going to Stephenson Court in Glenfield or parking at the railway pub on Station Road and walking over.
  • What to Expect: The tunnel is cold, so you should wear warm clothing. You will also need to be able to walk unaided for a significant distance to get into the tunnel.