Williamson’s Tunnels are a network of tunnels and underground caverns under the Edge Hill district of Liverpool. They were built by local resident Jospeh Williamson in the early 1800s.
The exact reason for their construction is a mystery. Some believe the masonry was to consolidate earlier quarries so the land above could be used for building. Others believe a major driver was the desire to provide local employment. Others say that Williamson preferred to hide away although as he is reported to have held underground banquets this seems less likely.
The Friends of Williamson’s Tunnels is a local volunteer-led charity that has worked for many years to clear the tunnels (used for many years as a convemient local dump) and offer tours by arrangement of the fascinating spaces.
A separate organisation - the [Jospeph Williamson Society (http://www.williamsontunnels.co.uk/) - has a heritage centre within some of the largest tunnels which is open to the public.
