Glenfield Tunnel
ENTRY
Free
SETTING
Indoors
WHERE
Leicester
What it’s like
Seasonal guided walks into a historic 1829 railway tunnel near Leicester - free with donation, book via LIHS.
Walk about 400 yards into Glenfield Tunnel - built in 1829 for the Leicester and Swannington Railway and once the longest railway tunnel in the world - on a guided tour run by Leicestershire Industrial History Society volunteers.
Tours are seasonal, typically May to October, with dates released closer to the season via the LIHS website and Facebook page. Tickets are free with a donation requested. Separate miniature railway rides inside the tunnel are expected back in July and September 2026 (booked separately; under-4s not allowed on the railway).
No toilets or parking at the tunnel itself - park at County Hall and walk about 10 minutes via underpass and steps into the cutting. The walk is about a mile all-in, not suitable for small children, pushchairs or wheels, and dogs are not allowed in the tunnel. Meeting point is usually Stephenson Court, Glenfield LE3 8BY.
Facilities
Plan your visit
Do we need to book ahead?
Yes, booking is required. Turning up on spec risks a wasted trip.
How much does Glenfield Tunnel cost?
It's free to get in. Some extras are priced; the full list is on this page.
What if it rains?
You're covered, it's indoors.
How do we find it?
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.
Experiences
Glenfield Tunnel Guided Tour
indoorsGuided walking tour of 400 yards of the maintained 1829 railway tunnel, facilitated by the Leicestershire Industrial History Society. The tour is a one-mile walk and is not suitable for small children due to distance and conditions, or for push chairs due to ground conditions. No dogs allowed.
Accessibility: No facilities at the tunnel, no toilets or parking. Unsuitable for disabled access due to steep steps and terrain within the cutting.
Rides
Miniature Railway Experience
ages 4+A miniature railway ride on a track approximately 100 metres long; the round trip takes about 10 minutes. Booked separately from the tunnel walking tours. Children under 4 years of age are not allowed on the railway due to insurance restrictions.
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