Bunker Drain.

Bunker is a storm drain and runs for approximatley 3.5 miles underneath the streets of Warrington.

The drain is modern in comparison with some of the other drains in the area and consists mainly of RCP (Reinforced Concrete Pipe) it does how ever hold some impressive features.

Upon entering Bunker you are first apprehensive as you really dont know what to expect, the entrance is rather stunning itself with walkways covering the entire first section of the drain, once you pass this you are then on your way through 3.5 miles of RCP and chambers.

The chambers themselves are incredible with various tunnels all linking up and distributing the water that flows into the place.

The trip through is a long and exhausting one but its layout does accomodate this, as you find a pattern, RCP then a chamber, RCP then a chamber and so on.

What is surprising though is how deep underground it is, in some sections there are access shafts which go up in some sections to around 4 storeys high, it does become rather confusing sometimes as the entire system doesnt really incline that much.

As you get deeper into the drain you reach a main section which splits off into smaller tunnels which are a bit of a squeeze to negotiate.

The highlight of the trip though was reaching the giant staircase that lies deep inside the drain just before the rather impressive swirl pot that marks the end of the drain.

What is surprising is the amount of wildlife that lives down there, the amount of Frogs, Eels and Fish that inhabit the place is spectacular and certainly a site none of us ever expected to see although it did make for a few interesting moments with the Eels swimming round us.

Having done a few Culverts and mini drains we needed to see a proper drain and Bunker was the one to see, its regarded as one of the best drains in the country and ranked third by the Draining Community as the most impressive, explorers from Europe have travelled to see this place.

That aside though it was worth our efforts and long overdue, well having one of the best drains in the country on our doorstep it would of been rude of us not to explore it wouldnt it!

And interesting explore this one if not somewhat repetative, exhausting and incredibly hot, having seen this place no doubt we will be visiting a few more drains in the summer months.