272. The deepest, highest, longest canal tunnel in Britain

[@Stealth55555]

Never in my life, would I ever think I would be excited watching a long boat very slowly chug through a 5 mile long tunnel canal. This was really cool to see!

[@CruisingTheCut]

😀

[@loveisall5520]

This masterpiece of civil engineering is so very typical of the British of the time. And its restoration against all practical odds is also testament to our British friends. Best wishes from a Texan...

[@chamonix4658]

🇬🇧❤🇺🇸

[@imlistening1137]

Another Texan here! How unique a trip that would be! I would love to go to England.

[@EmilyBoltz]

My bucket list. England, all parts of it. The history is amazing. But to me it is the people and civility that is totally lost in so much of the US. I don’t know if it is because we are such a young country or what. But US is like the loud mouth teen to granddad UK.

[@pickles4394]

Texas woop woop

[@sailormanoyster1849]

@Peter T fsiways in engla nd

[@mattevans-koch9353]

You never disappoint David. This was a wonderful example of people's determination to advance both in the original construction and the restoration of the canal and tunnel. I can't imagine what it would be like to make a living being a 'legger' and doing that for many years. Thank you for sharing this part of the canal history with us.

[@philgray1023]

They probably did bicycle racing in their liesure time.

[@daniellafferety4025]

Several days underground no Wi-Fi.sounds like a strange honey moon for the average young couples in 2022's. Talk to control yes we are still alive down here. Well up here we have had a nuclear war. So don't expect much fan fare at the Jurneys end. The is a recording beeep.

[@MrRydoone]

That's good spot to hide out from the nuke blast .

[@ActivateMission2ThisTimeline]

You Are Alive! Was thinking about you and the cost of fuel. Hope you can afford heating your rig this winter, stay free!

[@lauriethefish2470]

I know nothing about anything related to this but it was thoroughly interesting and enjoyable, thank you.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thank you

[@ellemdee276]

If anyone was worried that the content of your channel would suffer once you sold your boat, this episode should dispel their concerns once & for all. Great storytelling & videography!

[@CruisingTheCut]

Many thanks!

[@del5.0]

Oh boy I was on the edge of my seat watching this vlog. Well done David, those massive stones make you appreciate all the hard work that went into digging the tunnel. Thankful it is still in passable operation. That shot of the water reflecting the ceiling was incredible! I would never navigate the tunnel without a guide, glad someone is there to help. Such an interesting ride you took me on, thanks David. Cheers!

[@daviddenham1511]

I think you misunderstand the meaning of navigation, there is none to be done….you mean you want someone to hold your hand

[@Szaam]

To think of people laying those bricks and building that tunnel by hand centuries ago really boggles the mind. Great video!

[@noah6]

This is possibly the most British thing ever and I love it

[@kevinmencer3782]

Imagine how terrifying this journey must have been without the benefit of powerful electric lights. Imagine trying to navigate that with oil lamp as your only source of light.

[@shadowxxe]

Imaging breaking down in the middle of it!

[@callumthomas653]

My thoughts exactly and 1800s leg power for 3 miles with the tunnel full of working boats

[@SingerSage]

Now imagine Stiltman jump out of the Water… As slimy, thick liquid began looming down of its clenched, hardened mouth. Slurp, yet slurp. Its eye. Seemingly filled, all just filled with red. Staring does it pity you, now its all just down to your soul.

[@neilwilkinson8062]

Must have been very difficult for Leggers, in the unlined sections. Trying to find grip for your feet in the uneven rocks!

[@MaliciousMoxy]

Sounds relaxing frankly

[@bladder1010]

I think it's really wonderful that there are people with the dedication to keep your wonderful heritage alive.

[@mortalwombat5811]

Man, I truly love seeing this kind of enthusiasm for weird/niche historical hobbies. If it weren't for people who are passionate about things like old canal tunnels, they'd just crumble away and people like me would never get to watch neat videos like this. Good on you for making this video and sharing a bit of history with the world.

[@azureprophet]

Me too man, me too.

[@mc4906]

I just happened to stumble upon this video. This place is amazing! Thanks for making this and sharing.

[@CruisingTheCut]

👍

[@eamo106]

One of the best of your posts ever. Being Irish and a Mining engineer, I feel a connection to the 18th century Irish Navvies undoubtably used, see modern rock bolting techniques in the restoration and see my era Mine type communications in the 'lay-byes'. By the way, I would be happier in pure rock tops than man made concrete or steel ! Brilliant post ! Brilliant engineering and well done to the HCS to restore it !

[@johnhockenhull2819]

A totally unique tunnel. I went through a few years ago on the CRT trip boat. A memorable experience in which we went through the tunnel on the trip boat and then walked back over the top using public footpaths.

[@f12mnb]

Great video - always appreciate the fine production values (good clear sound, logical images, good editing, and the interview segments are with knowledgeable articulate people). Really the Canal Trust should have you do videos for them!

[@smilysun8358]

Totally agree!

[@CruisingTheCut]

They couldn't afford me 🤣🤣

[@HeavyH2006]

A remarkable engineering feat in the day. Wonderful video. Great channel. Big thank you!

[@CruisingTheCut]

Many thanks!

[@thejerseylady1]

Wow, everything about it is amazing: how it was constructed, used, and restored. As always, we appreciate your views and commentary. Well done! Gloria

[@annwagner5779]

Wow, that so cool! Very interesting to see the different types of tunnel and get a feel for the long term concentration required. The long still drone shot near the end is very impressive! It really helped to clarify the relationship of the tunnels.

[@michaelprime5400]

Went through the tunnel on a school trip around 1955/56 left school in 1957.School was in Hollinwood Oldham.Lived in Australia since 1958 but still remember it,am now 80 years old

[@alanbrookes6637]

Well done sir, I enjoyed it too. Had no idea of it, there is a tunnel in the Black Country…Netherton Tunnel. I’m 74 & lived in Australia since 1978, keep well sir.

[@Wisthanton]

I have no idea why this came up on my recommended list but fascinating video!

[@victorseal9047]

As a Canadian I found the whole trip through time and the tunnel fascinating. Thank you.

[@folkblues4u]

As a disabled person who's quite poor, i doubt I'd ever get the chance to experience these places in person. Thank you for sharing and making a person like me feel like i was along for the ride with you. It's such an uplifting feeling.

[@jasmijnariel]

Never say never... Make your own luck. Go to that place, ask someone if you can go with them into the tunnel, let someone pick you up at the other end

[@emehlhar]

As a citizen of one of the colonies, I am always in awe of the vast history of the British homeland. This tunnel was built over two hundred years ago and still services boats today. Just amazing. Thank you for bringing history alive.

[@davidmoore1477]

And, another reason to be proud to be British! No other place on earth has such amazing people! Great video! Thankyou

[@liambyrne5285]

You might need to travel more

[@andrewstrathdee1469]

I was worried when you sold your boat and wondered how you would keep the channel going, but need not have worried, The content since has been great and very informative, so thank you David - another professional job! I look forward to learning a lot more......

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thank you. There are lots of canal things to film (and a few general 'boaty' things that are my own interest which some may like and others may not!) so loads more videos to come :-)

[@georgevue8175]

That was cool 17 feet deep plus several ceiling types. I can only imagine the hard labor it took to build the tunnel

[@GLICKMIRE]

Really appreciated the drone footage at the end which put the mountain, service tunnels, rail tunnel and the canal in proper perspective.

[@SLLabsKamilion]

Yeah, what a charming view. Especially the overflow staircase.

[@imlistening1137]

It’s so nice to see an activity where the pace is slow and relaxing, where it doesn’t pay to get in a hurry!

[@sidneybowerman558]

This has to be one of the most interesting videos you have made David. If KZbin gave prizes I'm sure this video would be a contender for the top award. Now I have to do some research of my own on this tunnel to try and answer many of my questions.

[@lordtachanka903]

This guy is awesome. I was originally just gonna skim through to see the tunnel but the narration made me wanna watch the whole thing 🔥

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thank you

[@garyrumsby3330]

Hi very interesting, I was one of the miners that worked in the tunnels . It was a great job I was mainly working on re supporting the roof in all 4 tunnels As you go through the tunnel you will see the original drill holes the navvis used to blast the rock

[@SOPHIAFLYGIRL]

The cute little cafe at the end made this a fantastic video. I absolutely love learning about historical features of a place as interesting as this.

[@testingtimes7924]

I still amazes me what an incredible feat of engineering the original canal system was.

[@matoko123]

As a kid in '75 I paddled a canoe through The Foulridge Tunnel on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. It's a mile long and I remember there were signs saying no canoes etc allowed. It was a great experience that I shall never forget, Just checked and since 2017 unpowered craft are allowed. I guess I was 42 years too early ;)

[@OlafGunnarsson]

this channel is pure gold, is so relaxing, interesting, keep on boating lads!

[@kristialexander7677]

Found your videos this weekend - and I am addicted already. I will live vicariously through your travels, as I am in the States and more or less bound to a scooter. Your scenery shots, your interests, your truthfulness is enlightening! You are living a life I would have loved. Thank you and enjoy every minute!!!

[@CruisingTheCut]

Hello! Welcome along 😀 I'm pleased you like them. If you click my channel name then 'Videos' and select sort by oldest first, you can easily see them all in order 😀😀

[@oreilly1237878]

Cruising the cut reminds of how beautifull and relaxing and awe inspiring our canals really are .Best narrow boat channel.Keep it up,thanks.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thank you

[@stevepaynter3419]

David, when you sold your boat we had some apprehension as to direction, not living on a boat, etc. However, we have found your interview skills shine and we like your new approach. Look forward to your future vlogs Best 👌

[@v1e1r1g1e1]

Absolutely love how there are still enough people in the UK who love their history and are prepared to do so much to preserve it!

[@johnhitchon8043]

Without the wonders of KZbin this journey would not be a possibility for most. I was amazed to see see how the tunnel was constructed and how it has stood the test of time. Can you just imagine the hard work of the “ leggers “ for over three miles guiding a long boat through such a narrow aperture and probably with very little to no lighting. Thank you for sharing you’re awesome experience.

[@billreinhardt3684]

That must have been some job

[@GenaF]

Absolutely terrifying! Strangely enough, as a child in the early eighties and on narrowboat holidays with my parents, I happily sat with my sister at the front of the boat through Braunston Tunnel (thankfully I didn't know it was allegedly haunted) and also Crick Tunnel and yet I developed claustrophobia as I grew up. I felt such anxiety whilst watching this video, my heart was pounding.

[@paulcammaerts5230]

First class video, the best evocation of the Stanedge Tunnel on this channel. All technical aspects are of the highest quality, camera, sound, editing and the voiceover is both interesting and well-informed. Deserving of an award.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thank you very much!

[@Jo007kin]

Being a Bricklyer by trade i have huge respect and empathy for the men who worked on this amazing tunnel....👍👍👍

[@MrTomengle]

Living in the States, Tennessee, this is something I wont see in person. So I VERY much enjoyed taking the trip with you. Thank you so very much.

[@kwilson5832]

12:13 "Do you see that tiny spot of light in the distance? That's the exit". Or at least, I hope it's not the light on a boat coming the other way! Seriously though, what a great video, showcasing a remarkable piece of engineering. Thank you for posting.

[@mattskustomkreations]

If I could visit the UK, I wouldn’t care if there was no time for London - THIS is the Britain I’d love to see!

[@gjknepper]

Wonderful video. The fact that it was built with hand labor boggles the mind. The people who worked on it had to be incredibly tough and determined.

[@petermclelland278]

Amazing stuff.You don't know half of the effort & what's being achieved by these dedicated supporters.Good on them.

[@grahamfisher5436]

WiFi tunnel traffic tracking and communication system.. Installed 😊

[@David_P132]

Takes me back to about 1976, on holiday from Australia. We hired a narrow boat in the Stratford area I think; went through a longish tunnel like this, which was very nerve-wracking for me, being a real claustrophobic. That tiny light at the other end of the tunnel was one of the most welcome sights I've ever seen.

[@MikeBSc]

Was it a very long tunnel?

[@anondescriptbullet]

If I'm honest, I wasn't that concerned about the tunnel, but when he mentioned that the water was 17ft deep, I was suddenly terrified

[@ottocardonarosado]

Don't really know what I'm I doing here; but I was not disappointed. This is REALLY interesting.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thank you 😀

[@breitie804]

I have been watching docos about Britain by various excellent presenters like Michael Portillo, Tony Robinson, Julia Bradbury, Rhees Jones, and many others for all of my 83 years and have never heard of this amazing tunnel before. I never fail to be impressed by the engineering ingenuity and industriousness the Brits displayed over the centuries and can well understand why they ruled the world for so long. Their little island is absolutely packed full of natural and man made wonders.

[@rgarlinyc]

Thoroughly enjoyable, and very interesting to hear all about this unique tunnel - one I'd like to putter through myself one day, Thank you very much for this!

[@gavindamron9502]

Really cool! I don't think I'll ever get to visit there, but was really awesome to see.

[@havingalook2]

That was 100% terrifying and I would never do it in 1,000,000. I would throw up at just the idea. However - it is terribly fascinating and I marvel at the engineering involved to not only create it, but retsore it and maintain it. How wonderful such a canal tunel exists for the enthusiasts. Well done to all that took part and the staff of guides. Increadible feat. I am very impressed.

[@mattvjmeasures]

Canal tunnels scare me too! I once went through the 2.8km long Blsworth tunnel (with about 20 others on the canal boat) & that was scary enough for me 😃 I stayed inside for much of it.

[@jennyd255]

When I was 19 I navigated a boat through Harecastle. It was a fabulous experience, and I've always wanted to do Standege. Sadly at 62, with no boat of my own, a damaged back, and now living in scotland, I am starting to doubt if I will ever achieve the ambition. Your video was a lovely surrogate though. Thank you.

[@WhiteDragon689]

I saw bottom there a few times. It was surprisingly clear water. Very good job of keeping the canal clean guys.

[@chilliwaterlickingecko5113]

Yeah spun me out too

[@martinwhenmouth3977]

Goodness me, it's been 4 years since we went through the tunnel...both ways. We were scheduled to do the South Pennine ring, but there was a serious breakage on the Rochdale, so we got as far as Uppermill then came back through the tunnel again. Nice to see Trevor Ellis again who took us through the first time, then a mention of Alaister who was our chaperone on the way back. The trip looks terrifying on youtube, but is actually very exciting and not so daunting when you actually do it. I can thoroughly recommend it

[@alanthomas8736]

Never cease to be amazed by the audacity and backbreaking labor of the early industrial revolution. This reminds me of scary mine tours I’ve been on, where you weigh whether you’ve got the nerve, and then this one says “Oh yes, you must bring your home along…”

[@lawrencepage451]

Very well-done video illustrating the best of mankind, honoring the original builders with contemporary competence and respect in the restoration.

[@alisonlee3314]

You have to love the enthusiasm and determination of the people that restored this canal. The shots from above showing the infrastructure was fascinating. As for the tunnel itself. Nooooo. I would have been inside the boat, curled up into a ball 😆. Another wonderful video David x

[@user-kolhoz100let.]

Hello from Russia! Thanks for the exciting journey! The exit from the tunnels is amazing!

[@TheSparrowLooksUp]

The civil engineering nerd in me enjoyed every moment of watching this unique and unusual journey. Thank you for your wonderful work.

[@michaeltichael]

Mr. Alan Stopher's enthusiasm about the Standedge canal is infectious.

[@Albe3331]

Thanks for producing this. I live in the US. I wish our National Park Service had the funds to restore the C @ O Canal. It is 184.5 miles from DC to Cumberland Md. A small section has been restored near Washington. Image the economic boost along the length. It would benefit many plus provide a pleasant calming experience. But sadly our government would rather spend more on our military than restoring our history.

[@jmoe2060]

We did restore the Erie Canal at least, and against much political opposition.

[@kathyjohnson2043]

I love all of your adventures! It seems that not having to do maintenance on your own boat, you actually have more time to travel on them

[@CruisingTheCut]

Yes, absolutely!

[@csjmoore]

Very nice video and refreshing for its newness. What I cannot believe is 13K+ views in such a short time. The canal system is such a national treasure it makes me happy that there is a viable vision to keep this newer section open.

[@aureaphilos]

I used to work in the Mapping Operations unit of TomTom North America. As I was reveling in your drone view of the tunnel exit, I couldn't help but wonder how our British unit would've modelled the 2 auto carriageways, the dual rail lines, the canal tunnel, and then the reservoir overflow. And I was totally impressed that all of that was accomplished in tight alignments that (presumably) never intersected each other! Thanks from Vermont for a wonderful adventure!

[@guyroebuck8510]

The commentary is a little misleading, or not researched.... They are not auto, motor, car, tunnels they are the original rail tunnels. The twin bore rail tunnel there at the moment is the newest. This railway is getting a much needed and long overdue (as is the UK way..) . upgrade. Called TRU (transpennine route upgrade). I am wondering if the overhead electrification being installed is going to go through the rail tunnel too! The canal has been restored it's time for the railway now 😊

[@CruisingTheCut]

The commentary is neither misleading or not researched. At no point do I say they are "auto, motor, car" tunnels. They are clearly described as rail tunnels and that the ones alongside serve a purpose as service tunnels.

[@aureaphilos]

@@CruisingTheCut I had noticed the dual carriageway on the surface, under which the tunnels and canal pass. A wonder of engineering all around!

[@guyroebuck8510]

Now I am right about this bit. It is a single carriageway not a dual carriageway 😅Apologies for criticising your commentary. 😢. I've never seen the old rail tunnels at the West end. Something to explore next time I'm there. 😊One thing is certain. These tunnels are all put to better use than the old Woodhead rail tunnels.

[@guyroebuck8510]

I think the track /road over the hills when the canal railway were built went a much more winding route. It wouldnt have been in this location.

[@dmwi1549]

What an engineering marvel that was for the time. I noticed how elegant the original work was compared to 30 million pounds spent more recently. Quite a testimony to the cost of craftsmanship over the years. We shall see what lasts longer. The original work or new.

[@Eldormen]

thank you for this little excursion. it was lovely to see the inside of tunnel

[@billywayne9039]

So glad I saw this. Impressive and a bit unsettling. That bare rock was something and that shot of the crystal clear water, what a smart bit. Thanks again for a superb time. All the best.🙂👍

[@Robby334]

Great I once got stuck in the Blisworth tunnel we ran out of fuel and had to lay on the top of the boat and walk it through was very scary not to mention all the soot on the boat

[@pyrenyang2929]

Thank you so much for showing us this spectecular piece of history. I would never go in there, so its cool to have the chance this way^^

[@CruisingTheCut]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@pixie706]

No I couldn't go in there but held my breath for the whole time ! Thanks so much David for showing us the amazing work put into the tunnel

[@Valionic]

This was an incredibly interesting yet niche little topic to stumble across thanks to the youtube algorithm, envious of the journey and would love to try it for myself some day. Being 20 years of age I'm now understanding how exciting these little snippets of history are, having visited the entrance when I was much younger and not really understanding what I was looking at, I am thankful that you can provide some insight for something I much overlooked.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Welcome along!

[@harrisonosirrah]

That man you interviewed was super friendly and well spoken. I can just sense the years of knowledge and passion. I'm an American who's only seen these canals in scene in tv shows like Grange Hill and The Inbetweeners. But I have a new appreciation for these waterways and I think I can understand understand better now, why so many people still love to travel on them. Great video. (ps: Zak Baggins would make that tunnel even creepier. someone should let him and his crew spend a night inside a boat in the tunnel)

[@mrv1264]

I just put this canal on my list of places to visit when I return to England. I loved the Grand Union Canal in Maida Vale, London. I used to walk there from my flat where I lived for a year.

[@PeteEllson5656]

That was a great video, Dave. Very interesting and well made. Thanks for sharing this.

[@komi-origami]

1:17 It kinda looks like a LOTR background, with it’s lovely trees, canal, brick house and those fancy pennants!

[@carlosguilhermediasferreir8862]

Only one word for this amazing adventure funtastic I really miss your beautiful country and marvelous people God bless you all

[@GreenEggAndSAM2]

This makes me want to live in the UK. So much history and so many cool places.

[@jerryoshea3116]

Yes there is plenty of History,but u have a certain type who wish to denigrate,ignore&show no respect at all fir the UK History!...One of my main thoughts & observations was the amount of "Back breaking work" that went into building these Tunnels ..They were a Special breed back then!👍

[@MeinTubengucker]

Very informative and beautifully made video! It was worth putting this tunnel back into operation.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sandymandy3926]

Like something out of Tolkien, long abandoned dwarf tunnels that had flooded. Great video David!

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thank you!

[@lesliepropheter5040]

The entrance gate depicting cruel and usual punishments awaiting

[@ChrisEvans-sy5me]

What a extremely interesting journey, I’ve never been on a narrow boat but have always admired them so thank you for my journey with you through the tunnel xx

[@haydenblanchard2006]

love england and it’s absolutely astonishing historical sights.

[@dwaynekoblitz6032]

Quite mesmerizing. And terrifying! I don't think I'd be up to going through that tunnel myself. No way actually!

[@takumi2023]

i'd love to hear the guy just talk about the history while you filmed the tunnel. would be a good relaxing thing to listen to.

[@robertsherrow3627]

I started watching your videos a few years ago on Amazon Prime and loved the introduction and stories you shared in owning and navigating a narrow boat on the beautiful canal system in England. Recently I just happened onto your KZbin channel and discovered that you sold your own boat about a year or so ago and was initially concerned with how you would manage content for this topic. In the few episodes I’ve watched, including this one, I’d say you’re doing a splendid job and this seems to be a natural progression from a focus on your own boat ownership to a wider scope of canal maintenance, history, unique features and other enthusiasts. Well done!

[@sandy1653]

I do so love the sound of those engines chuffing along. It's a strangely soothing sound.

[@hoppinonabronzeleg9477]

All praise the God of Chug!

[@garethwood8812]

These tunnels were our playground as teenagers in the 80’s , many happy hours spent pushing the old work boat that was left in there with a stick and sometimes only a candle 👍🏻

[@JohnSmith-yv6eq]

How far in did you go...were there rock falls that stopped you?

[@burrowsgod]

I live a near stanedge tunnel in Huddersfield. When they dug the tunnel the navigators literally had a temporary village built..i often walk up the tops over Marsden...infact I might go up today. Beautiful part of the world.

[@pulltheotherone5035]

Oh so happy to see you again....still longing to come to Britain and do the canal boat holiday. My cousin's son has since bought a canal boat to live on....so now I have a ready made boat to visit when I finally get over there.....one day I hope!

[@Chiller01]

Enjoyed that video. I have no knowledge of British canals or narrow boating but I would imagine this was an important structure for commerce and transportation at the beginning of the 19th century.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Yes, absolutely

[@benoittassin1379]

As a frenchman it hurts me to say it but that english countryside looks like gold 😍

[@lucky1time811]

I couldn’t imagine the hard work the poor souls who had to build these… I never knew Britain had such extensive canals! Wow!

[@VideoDotGoogleDotCom]

Well, think of the 1776-km Grand Canal in China, built by hand. Although, I'd much rather visit the one in England than the Chinese one.

[@lruss5050]

Congratulations on keeping the canals going! Such a beautiful area! Thank you for sharing this!❤

[@hongsonngo8515]

WOW, wonderful, thank you and the volunteers :)

[@jeanlefranc3817]

Absolutely fantastic. True British history.

[@George_M_]

The steel and concrete areas really highlight how damaged the tunnel was (they must be repaired caved in areas)

[@phiknn9513]

That Looks amazing. Brilliant incentive for a canal boat vacation. Thank You.

[@Circadianic]

Really don’t think I could go through there! Look’s bloody terrifying!