A network of secret underground tunnels, which once served as a deep-level air raid shelter during World War II, is poised to transform into a major tourist destination by 2028. Originally built between 1940 and 1942 by the British amidst the Blitz bombing raids, these tunnels have a storied history that intertwines with espionage, communication during the Cold War, and even the inspiration for iconic literary figures like James Bond.
Constructed by hand as a safety measure against Nazi bombings, these tunnels formed part of a larger network of eight similar structures. However, as Germany's military focus shifted towards Russia, the original purpose of these shelters was never realized. In 1944, Ian Fleming, who later penned the famous James Bond novels, worked at this site, drawing inspiration for Bond's renowned Q Branch from its clandestine atmosphere.
During the war, the tunnels became the headquarters for the Special Operations Executive (SOE), a covert organization under MI6 tasked with conducting espionage and sabotage operations. In 1949, they were repurposed as the UK's communication line to the United States, establishing a vital connection during the tense years of the Cold War. The significance of these tunnels extended to pivotal events like the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, where they served as an essential link for communication.
By the 1980s, British Telecom took over the site and turned it into the world’s deepest licensed bar, albeit one accessible only to staff. The tunnels span over 365 meters in length and stretch across a subterranean area of approximately 86,000 square feet. They feature two parallel "streets" that run alongside London's Northern and Central Underground lines.
The ambitious project to open these historic tunnels to the public will commence construction in late 2024, with an estimated cost of $149 million. The vision for this underground space includes a museum, memorial, art gallery, cultural hub, and nightlife venue featuring the world's deepest bar. The team behind this initiative aims to attract around three million visitors annually.
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