A few Statistics
Standedge Tunnel is the longest, highest and deepest canal tunnel in the country. It is 3 miles 406 yards long (5210m), 645 feet above sea level (147m) and 638 feet (145m) below the moorland of Standedge. The tunnel took 17 years to construct.
It was originally 3 miles 135 yds (4950m) long but was extended when the third railway tunnel was built alongside, so that the rail tracks could cross over the canal.
Boat Trips into the Tunnel
Passenger boat trips into the tunnel are run by British Waterways and start from Tunnel End Cottages, next to the tunnel entrance at Marsden. See www.standedge.co.uk for days of operation, times and prices. These trips run into the tunnel for about 500 metres and have a lively commentary provided by a tunnel guide.
The more adventurous may like to consider a trip right through the tunnel. This has to be booked in advance by phoning 01484 844298. From April 4th 2009, through trips will take place on the first Saturday of each month and will cost £10 (£8 for concessions). The westbound journey leaves Tunnel End, Marsden, at 9.00 am and the eastbound journey leaves Diggle at 1.00 pm. The journey lasts around three hours and you will have to find your own way back to the starting point. (Hourly bus 184 passes through Marsden and Diggle.)
Taking a boat through
From 30th March 2009 boats will be able to pass through Standedge Tunnel under their own power.
Passage will take place on three days a week - Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Three boats in each direction will be allowed into the tunnel each day, at 45 minute intervals to prevent boaters being affected by the diesel fumes of other boats.
Each boat will carry a British Waterways "chaperone", a qualified tunnel pilot who will supervise the passage and offer advice. The pilot would be able to steer the boat through tricky sections if the boater wished but the boater may steer the boat the whole way if preferred.
Boaters wishing to use the tunnel must book a passage at least 24 hours in advance by phoning 01782 785703 (Monday to Friday). Because of the limited number of passages available it is advisable to book a slot as far in advance as possible, but you should be aware that BW will charge you £50 if you don't show up (unless you have phoned to cancel 48 hours or more in advance).
Pets will be allowed to remain on board but must be restrained (i.e. caged or tied) so that there is no possibility of them becoming alarmed and causing a distraction or safety problem.
Boaters will be issued with hard hat and life jacket to be worn at all times in the tunnel by anyone outside on the boat and each boat will be issued with additional lighting for navigation.
Boats will only be allowed into the tunnel if they are within the specified craft dimensions (basically not more than 70 ft length, 6'10" beam, 3' 3" draught - a diagram showing the exact dimensions can be seen here).
The width reduces below water level and at around cabin roof height so boats with a vertically sided profile and little tumblehome may be turned away. If in doubt contact BW for advice.
Fibreglass boats and petrol engined boats are not permitted through the tunnel.
The information on this page is for guidance and details may be altered. Please see www.standedge.co.uk or contact British Waterways for latest information.