If you are and around the
Newcastle area and need to regularly cross the River Tyne, you’ll know the Tyne Tunnels are a vital link. One that connects North and South Tyneside.
The toll you pay ensures the tunnels remain safe, efficient, and dependable. Though it does come at a cost.
Tyne Tunnel Background
- The first part of the Tyne tunnel was opened in 1967. A second tunnel was created and opened in in 2011 - in an attempt to relieve the congestion and boost the safety of the road.
- The toll revenue goes towards the operational costs, 24/7 maintenance, and repayment of construction debt. AS such the running of the tunnel does not rely on public funding.
Toll Rates (As of May 1, 2025)
| Vehicle Type
| Standard Toll
| With Pre-Paid Account (10% Off)
|
|---|
| Motorcycles & exempt vehicles
| £0.00
| £0.00
|
| Cars, vans, buses ≤ 3.5 t
| £2.50
| £2.25
|
| LGVs, larger vans, buses > 3.5 t
| £5.00
| £4.50
|
- Motorcycles and Blue Badge / disability permit holders travel free.
- Toll increases took effect as of 1 May 2025.
Toll Payment Options & Convenience
- Tyne Pass system (open-road tolling) – automatic number plate recognition, no toll booths.
- How to pay:
- Pre-paid account (Tyne Pass) – automatic, discounted, multi-vehicle option.
- Guest payment – online/app, pay before or up to midnight the next day.
- Phone line – automated 24/7 service (0191 574 0030).
- PayPoint retailers – cash payment available (up to 10 trips in advance).
- Deadline: Payment must be completed by midnight the day after travel.
What is an Unpaid Toll Charge Notice?
- If payment is missed, a UTCN is issued:
- Toll + £30 (if paid within 14 days).
- Escalates to toll + £60, then toll + £100 plus collection charges (~£75).
- Persistent non-payment can result in court action.
Is The Tyne Tunnel Fee Worth It?
Worth paying if you:
- Want fast, stop-free crossings.
- Cross frequently and can benefit from the 10% pre-paid discount.
- Rely on the tunnels as the most direct route.
Might not suit you if:
- You rarely use the tunnels and want to avoid account admin.
- You’re concerned about the rising toll prices.
- You might forget to pay on time (and risk fines).
Tyne Toll Summary
- Current tolls: £2.50 (cars), £5.00 (HGVs), free for motorcycles/exempt drivers.
- Pre-Paid Account rates: £2.25 (cars), £4.50 (HGVs).
- New rates started: 1 May 2025.
- Payment options: Pre-paid, guest online/app, phone, PayPoint.
- Fines: Missed payments trigger escalating fines.
Tyne Tunnel Toll – FAQ
Do I have to stop to pay at the Tyne Tunnel?
No. Since 2021, the Tyne Tunnels use open-road tolling (Tyne Pass). Cameras capture your plate, and you pay online, via app, or automatically with an account.
How long do I have to pay after using the Tyne Tunnel?
You must pay by midnight the day after travel unless you have a pre-paid account.
Can I pay the Tyne Tunnel Toll in cash?
Not at the tunnel. Cash payments are only possible at PayPoint retailers, where you can pay for up to 10 journeys in advance.
What happens if I forget to pay the Tyne Tunnel Fee?
You’ll receive an Unpaid Toll Charge Notice (UTCN) with added fees. The sooner you pay, the smaller the penalty.
Is it cheaper to set up a Tyne Tunnel account?
Yes. Pre-paid account users get a 10% discount and automatic payments, avoiding UTCNs.
Who is exempt from Tyne Tunnel tolls?
- Motorcycles
- Blue Badge holders (must apply for exemption)
- Certain emergency vehicles
Are Tyne Tunnel fees likely to rise again?
Yes. Tolls are reviewed annually to cover operational costs and debt repayments. The latest increase was 1 May 2025.
