Williamson’s Tunnels were constructed in rural Edge Hill, now in the thick of urban Liverpool, beside the university, in the early part of the 19th century by wealthy eccentric Joseph Williamson. The favourite theory about why he did so is that it kept diggers, brick layers, and brick makers in pocket, and from starvation. The vaults were immense, putting me in mind of the “Brave New World” section of the musical version of War Of The Worlds, where a minor character wants to dig out a whole underground existence. Though the tour is short in distance, it is very rich in facts, experience and atmosphere. It really brings home the scale of the works and the guide was absolutely brilliant - down to earth, passionate, knowledgeable and very clear. I heartily recommend a visit.