Ep 8. World's Greatest Tunnel

Richard Hammond's Big is an action-packed and adrenaline-fueled show that takes viewers on a journey to explore some of the most incredible engineering feats ever created. In season 1, episode 8, titled "World's Greatest Tunnel," host Richard Hammond dives deep into the world of tunnels to uncover some of the most ambitious and awe-inspiring tunnel projects ever undertaken.

The episode begins with Hammond exploring the history of tunneling, from the early days of hand-dug tunnels to the massive underground projects of today. He visits the Brunel Museum in London, where he learns about the life and work of 19th-century engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who was responsible for some of the most groundbreaking tunnel projects of his time.

Hammond then takes viewers on a journey around the world to visit some of the most impressive tunnels ever built. From the Channel Tunnel linking England and France to the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland, which at over 35 miles is the longest tunnel in the world, Hammond explores the engineering challenges and innovative solutions that were needed to make these projects a reality.

Viewers also get an inside look at modern tunnel-boring machines, which can dig through rock at incredible speeds and create tunnels with remarkable precision. Hammond visits a tunnel-boring site in Seattle, where the machine is carving out a highway tunnel under the city, and he gets to see firsthand how these machines work and the challenges faced by the engineers who operate them.

But the episode isn't just about the engineering feats themselves. Hammond also takes a look at the impact that tunnels have had on society and the environment. He examines the controversial Brenner Base Tunnel, a massive project underway in the Alps to create a tunnel for high-speed trains, and speaks with locals and environmentalists who worry about the impacts the tunnel could have on the fragile mountain ecosystem.

Throughout the episode, Hammond's trademark sense of humor and enthusiasm for engineering make for an engaging and entertaining viewing experience. Whether he's crawling through cramped tunnels or riding in a high-speed train, Hammond's energy and curiosity keep viewers hooked as he explores the incredible world of tunneling.

Overall, "World's Greatest Tunnel" is a must-watch episode for anyone interested in engineering, technology, or the incredible feats that humans are capable of achieving. Hammond's passion and expertise make this episode both informative and entertaining, and viewers are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for the engineering marvels that make our modern world possible.