Tunnel Gallery

Brunels tunnelling shield

The tunnelling shield, or excavating machine designed by Sir Marc Isambard Brunel (1769- 1849) & used in the construction of the lining of the Thames tunnel. The shield (right) consists of twelve frames, which could be edged forward independently, supporting the side of the tunnel while allowing bricklayers to work from it. A moveable stage enabled building materials to be brought up to the level of the advancing face of the lining. The tunnel, running under the Thames between Rotherhithe & Wapping, was begun by Sir Marc Brunel in 1825 & completed in 1873 after his death. It was designed for foot passengers & later taken over by London Underground

© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Swindon Works Tunnel Entrance, 1935

A sea of men can be seen leaving the Works, probably at lunchtime. This was the main entrance tunnel for the Works. The doors were promptly closed after each call for work. Anyone late to work could not get in and have to explain themselves to the gatehouse staff

© STEAM Museum of the GWR

1930s, 1935, Entrance, People, Swindon Works, Tunnel

Ludlow Station, Shropshire

A general view of Ludlow station in Shropshire, showing the old Victorian station buildings that were demolished in the late 1960s. Beyond the station platforms the end of Ludlow Tunnel can be seen. This tunnel is relatively short and runs under Gravel Hill.
Ludow station opened in April 1852

© STEAM Museum of the GWR

Gravel Hill, Ludlow, Ludlow Station, Ludlow Tunnel, Shropshire, Station, Station Building, Tunnel