Underground Passages

The dark, winding Underground Passages, which today run beneath much of Exeter, were constructed in the 14th century to contain the pipes that brought pure drinking water into the medieval city. Following a cholera epidemic that struck the city in the 1800s, it was deemed that the water system required a comprehensive makeover. By 1901, Exeter had weaned itself off the natural well, and the passageways were eventually closed.

They were made to transport potable water from fresh springs outside the fortified city. Lead pipes carried the water into the city's center. Sometimes the pipes leaked, and the only way to fix buried pipes was to dig them up, as we do today. The corridors were vaulted to prevent this disruption. Visitors are led down a few of these arched tunnels.

Only Exeter in the UK has such underground passages, and for those who have the courage to explore the gloomy and cramped underground area, guided excursions are still offered today. A plethora of fascinating information about the history of the tunnels is also available from the contemporary visitor center.

Location: Exeter, Devon