Visitor Experience
What to expect on your visit
Visitor Experience
Visiting Gibraltar’s WWII tunnels is a journey back in time.
The Tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into the strategic military history of the Rock.
As you navigate the labyrinth of passages carved deep into the limestone, you’ll discover the incredible engineering feats accomplished under the harshest conditions. The tunnels, filled with original wartime artifacts and vivid exhibits, tell the stories of the soldiers and civilians who lived and worked in this underground fortress.
The experience will reveal the crucial role these tunnels played in the Allied war effort, providing insights into the ingenuity and resilience that defined the era. This immersive experience, rich with historical significance, leaves visitors with a profound appreciation for Gibraltar’s pivotal role in WWII.
1939
After the Nazi invasion of Poland on 1st September 1939, Britain and France declare war with Germany. Working together with Hitler, Stalin orders the invasion of Poland, securing a share of Polish territory
Preparations in Gibraltar begin with the start of the construction of a solid surface runway. Gibraltar’s civilian branch of City Council Engineers, have already begun excavations on ARP (Air Raid Precautions) shelters and essential tunnels.
Image: Neville Chamberlain, British Prime Minister from 28th May 1937 – 10th May 1940
1940
The Blitzkrieg begins and the Nazis invade Denmark and Norway. Paris falls to German forces and the France capitulates, whilst Italy joins the Axis powers.
The Battle of Britain pits British fighters against German bombers who target major cities in Great Britain and N Ireland.
The evacuation of the civilian population in Gibraltar begins in June to allow military personnel to take up defensive operations.
By the end of 1940, two tunnelling companies from the Royal Engineers and the Royal Canadian Engineers continue to expand the tunnel network in Gibraltar
Image: Royal Engineer tunnellers using a water pressure drill
1941
Italy and Germany attack Yugoslavia and Hitler attacks Russia (Operation Barbarossa).
In March, a second tunnelling company from the Royal Canadian Engineers arrives on the Rock to continue tunnelling
Mini submarine-borne attacks on Gibraltar continue throughout 1941, resulting in a number of Allied shipping being destroyed.
By the end of 1941, war is declared on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbour
Image: Italian frogmen riding on a submarine torpedo known as ‘maiales’, breaking through the British net-barrier ahead of Gibraltar
1942
Preparations for Operation Tracer, the creation of a secret cave for spying operations in Gibraltar, are well underway.
Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa, is launched, with Gen D Eisenhower commanding the operation from Gibraltar.
In the Pacific theatre of war, the Battle of Midway takes place as US bombers sink four Japanese aircraft carriers.
Image: General Dwight D Eisenhower and British naval officers make a final check-up on the North African invasion plan
1943
Germany suffers a major defeat at Stalingrad, and Axis forces surrender in North Africa.
The Allies take Sicily in August 1943, and Italy surrenders in September. The threat of invasion in Gibraltar is reduced and discussions about repatriation of evacuees begin.
Image: A British infantryman capturing a German tank crewman at El Alamein, Egypt
1944
Evacuees begin to return to Gibraltar in April 1944 however those that remain in London are re-evacuated to N. Ireland due to bomb threats.
Allied forces carry out Operation Overlord, landing in Normandy on D-Day. Rome and Paris are liberated and the Battle of the Bulge begins.
Image: Gibraltarian evacuees disembark at Gibraltar
1945
Operation Plunder is successful as the Allied forces cross the Rhine and shortly after, the Russians reach Berlin.
Germany surrenders on 7th May. The war continues in the Pacific theatres but Victory in Europe is declared on 8th May.
Atomic bombs are dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki and subsequently the end of WWII is officially declared on 2nd September. Gibraltar holds a Victory Parade on 12th March.
Most of the Gibraltarian evacuees return to Gibraltar but not all. Some do not return until 1951.
Image: VE victory parade on Main Street, Gibraltar, 12th May 1945
Explore The Tunnels
Exhibits
Explore the exhibition highlighting key aspects of Gibraltar’s WWII history, from strategy and defence to the evacuation and stories of sacrifice. Explore The Tunnels at your leisure and discover the secrets hidden within The Rock
About your visit
Gift Shop, Food & Refreshments
Visit our retail space and discover gifts and memorabilia related to WWII. Pick up some Tunnels merchandise or learn more about Gibraltar’s WWII story with a book from a local author.
Enjoy a drink and a snack at our dedicated WWII themed bar, The Tunneller’s Rest.
Tickets
Access to The Tunnels is included with a Gibraltar Nature Reserve ticket.
Tickets include access to the whole Nature Reserve and can be purchased on the day of your visit at any of the entrance points.
Photography
Photography is encouraged and there are plenty of photo opportunities within The Tunnels.
Share your experiences with us on social media using the hashtag #thetunnels.
Accessibility
The attraction is wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible. Trained assistance dogs are welcome. If you need any further assistance, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.
There are always Gibraltar Nature Reserve staff on site, as well as our own dedicated staff for The Tunnels Experience.
Opening Times
The Tunnels are open Monday to Sunday, 363 days of the year. We are closed on 25th December and 1st January
Please take note of the last entry times below
Summer opening hours (May – September)
09:30 – 19:15 (last entry is at 18:15)
Winter opening hours (October – April)
09:00 – 18:15 (last entry is at 17:15)
VIP Tours
The Tunnels offer a self-led experience that allows you to uncover history at your own pace.
For those seeking something extra, our VIP Guided Tours provide exclusive access and insight. Led by our team of expert guides, these tours take you deeper into the stories, secrets, and behind-the-scenes details that bring the wartime tunnels to life.
UP TO 10 PEOPLE – £25 per person
11 TO 25 PEOPLE – £20 per person
Tour groups also receive 10% discount on drinks at The Tunneller’s Rest
Contact us by email for more info (note tours must be booked at least 2 weeks in advance)
Gallery
FAQ Preview
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What do we expect to see at the tunnels?
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The Tunnels – Gibraltar’s WWII Experience takes visitors through a section of Gibraltar’s WWII tunnels, featuring various exhibits and interactive elements that highlight Gibraltar’s significance during World War II.
Located within the tunnel complex excavated during the war, the attraction provides valuable insights into the efforts of the Gibraltarian population, military strategies, and the human endeavours of the era. The exhibition also features The Spitfire Hall, our event space with a full size replica of the GIBRALTAR Spitfire hanging from the ceiling
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How much time should I allocate for the visit?
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Most visitors spend between 25 minutes to 1 hour on-site, although you are welcome to stay as long as you like during operating hours. The Tunnels Experience is self led and can be enjoyed at your leisure – so please stay as long as you wish!
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Is the attraction suitable for children?
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Yes, The Tunnels are family friendly and includes some entertaining interactive displays. Children under the age of 12 years must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
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Appropriate clothing
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We recommend wearing warm clothing in the winter and appropriate footwear at all times as the ground may be uneven and slippery.
Visitors are expected to dress appropriately at all times . Beachwear is not allowed. Visitors entering without tops on will be asked to put them back on.
Please remember that The Tunnels is a place of historical and cultural significance and this must be respected by wearing suitable clothing.
Visitors who are not dressed appropriately will be asked to leave the site.
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Where is the attraction located and how do I get there?
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The Tunnels is located within the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. We can be reached on foot, e-bike, public transport No.1 bus, private taxi or via a tour operator. We can also be reached by walking down from the Cable Car top station via Signal Station Road, which is approximately a 25 minute walk. If you are walking up from town, follow signs to the Moorish Castle, we are just a few steps away. The walk from Casemates Square is approximately 15-20 minutes.
If you choose to take public transport, take the No. 1 bus starting at the Market Place terminus and get off at the Willis’s Road terminus. Walk up 5 minutes up the road towards the Moorish Castle and we are just a few steps away. The bus timetable and tracker can be found here
If you choose to visit us via a private taxi, tour operator or e-bike tour, as your provider for more information.
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What are opening times and prices?
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Entry to the Tunnel Experience and all other attractions in the reserve is included with the purchase of a ticket for the Nature Reserve. A Nature Reserve ticket can be purchased on the day of your visit at any of the entry points to the Reserve:
Moorish Castle
Jews’ Gate
Devil’s Gap
Cable Car Station
Opening Hours:
The Tunnels are open Monday to Sunday, 363 days of the year
Summer opening hours (May – September)
09:30 – 19:15 (NOTE last entry to The Tunnels is at 18:15)
Winter opening hours (October – April)
09:00 – 18:15 (NOTE last entry to The Tunnels is at 17:15)
*We are closed on 25th December and 1st January*
Prices:
Tickets for the Gibraltar Nature Reserve are sold by the Department of the Environment (HMGoG) and prices are subject to change at their discretion
Adult: £30
Child (5 – 11 years): £22
Infant (under 5): Free
The Gibraltar Nature Reserve ticket gives access to the entire Nature Reserve, including The Tunnels. There is no additional fee to enter The Tunnels.
Where to find us
The Tunnels
Hay’s Level
WWII Tunnels
Willis’s Road
Gibraltar
GX11 1AA
Contact Us
