Williamson Tunnels

About this activity

The Williamson Tunnels provides an insight into the underground world that was created by Joseph Williamson in the 19th century. You can take a tour through a network of tunnels and view exhibitions that tell the story of one of Liverpool's eccentric characters. 

The centre is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and all tours must be booked in advance. It's a registered charity and relies on vicitors to maintain and develop the centre. You'll visait the four storey Chambers of Paddington and was discovered in 1999 after being sealed and lost for many years! The chamber is around 12 metres and 18 metres below ground level. The tunnels actually hadn't been seen since before WW2 and it wasn't known if they had been destroyed! 

You can also explore the newly excavated basement of Joseph Williamson's House with new discovered features! The likes of wine bins, sandstone arch and the famous banqueting hall and boiler room are all additions to the tour. 

To the north of the house site there was a colossal Great Tunnel directly under the plot, but even to this day it isn't certain for sure what remains!

There are also many artefacts that have been discovered. Including clay pipes, bottles and even children's toys! They have as many items on display in Paddington but most are stored away. 

There's also lots of primary and secondary education programmes too, including a tunnel vision tour and pieces from the paast workshop, so get in touch with them to see how they can help bring the curriculum to life!