DfT tunnel list and time windows
The following categories are taken from the DfT guidance updated on 7 April 2025, checked on 28 September 2026. The source covers Great Britain; it should not be treated as a complete list for every UK jurisdiction.
| Tunnel | DfT category |
|---|---|
| Blackwall | E |
| Clyde | D |
| Dartford | C |
| East India Dock Road | E |
| Heathrow Airport | E from 04:00 to 23:00; C at other times |
| Limehouse | E |
| Mersey | D |
| Rotherhithe | E |
| Silvertown | E |
| Tyne | C |
Source: Department for Transport, ADR tunnel categories, available under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Check the operator’s current restrictions and signs as part of the actual journey plan.
Changes that older copies can miss
The DfT publication history records Tyne changing from category D to C on 24 July 2024 and Silvertown opening on 7 April 2025. These are useful checks when comparing an older route sheet with the official guidance. See the DfT publication and update history.
A tunnel category is one part of the route decision
DfT describes categories from A to E: category A has no ADR dangerous goods tunnel restriction, while category E is the most restrictive. That summary is not a substitute for assessing the actual consignment under ADR.
For a review, supply the UN numbers, transport classification, quantities, packaging or tank details, vehicle configuration and intended crossing time. Check each transport stage where a journey connects Great Britain and Spain, including any ferry requirements. Refer to ADR 2025 Volume II and current operator information.
Related: checking German tunnel restrictions, IMDG Code for the sea leg and advice for operations involving Spain.
Discuss your operation in Spain
Tell us which goods, activities and transport stages are involved. We will discuss the scope of the advice or training you need.