The abandoned underground railway, known as Mail Rail, lies hidden beneath the bustling streets of London. Originally built at the turn of the 20th century, it served as a solution to the city’s congested and polluted roads, ensuring timely mail deliveries for the Royal Mail.
Stretching six miles from east to west, it was a remarkable engineering marvel, the world’s first fully automated driverless railway. Construction of the tunnels began in 1915, using the impressive “great head Shield system” to safeguard excavation.
However, materials scarcity during and after the First World War delayed its opening until 1927. Throughout its operation, Mail Rail faced challenges, from runaway trains to the ever-present risk of flooding from the underground River Fleet.
The railway’s importance in keeping people connected cannot be overstated. Despite its eventual closure in 2003, the legacy of Mail Rail endures, reminding us of its vital role in speeding up communication across London and preserving an important part of the city’s history.
Today, these silent tunnels stand as a testament to the past, attracting intrigue and fascination with their hidden stories and secrets.
Top image: London Underground’s Post Office railway. Source: Gaius Cornelius / CC BY-SA 4.0.
