The Channel Tunnel

Michael Bonavia on the long-delayed link between Britain and the Continent.

Thomé de Gamond's plan of 1856 for a cross-Channel link, with a port/airshaft on the Varne sandbank mid-Channel'C’est une des grandes choses que nous devrions faire ensemble', Napoleon is said to have remarked to the British ambassador during the short-lived Peace of Amiens.

To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5.

Start my trial subscription now

If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.

Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.