London Underground: A Complete Guide

Map of the London Underground

The London Underground, commonly known as the Tube, is one of the world's oldest and most expansive metro systems. Spanning the city, the Underground is an essential part of London's daily life, providing millions of passengers with a fast and efficient way to travel. In this guide, we'll take you through the most important facts about the Tube stations and provide you with insights into the biggest, oldest, newest, and most frequently used stations across London.

Many of the station profiles linked below were written over the past few years and are currently being updated and improved. Thank you for your patience as we enhance this section.

The History of the Underground Stations

The first Underground railway line opened in 1863, originally connecting Paddington (then called Bishop's Road) to Farringdon. This initial line, the Metropolitan Railway, was a pioneering effort in urban transport. Since then, the network has expanded massively, and today the London Underground consists of 11 lines serving 272 stations. These stations range from simple, functional stops to ornate architectural masterpieces, and each has its own unique history and character.

The Biggest Underground Station: King's Cross St Pancras

King's Cross St. Pancras is the largest Underground station in London, offering access to six different lines: the Piccadilly, Victoria, Northern, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines. It is a major interchange hub, not only for the Tube but also for national and international rail services. The station underwent a significant redevelopment, culminating in the opening of its new concourse in 2012, which improved passenger flow and modernized the station’s facilities. Each day, King's Cross St. Pancras sees hundreds of thousands of passengers pass through its halls.

The Oldest Underground Station: Baker Street

Baker Street holds the title of the oldest Underground station still in operation, with its origins going back to 1863. The station was part of the initial Metropolitan Railway line and has seen numerous transformations over the years. Baker Street is perhaps most famously associated with Sherlock Holmes, as the fictional detective is said to reside at 221B Baker Street. The station now features a small Sherlock Holmes museum and retains much of its Victorian charm, despite being modernized over time.

The Newest Underground Station: Nine Elms

The newest addition to the London Underground network is Nine Elms station, which opened in September 2021. Located on the Northern Line's Battersea Extension, it serves the rapidly developing Nine Elms area in south London. The station was built to serve the newly created residential and commercial developments in the region, including the Battersea Power Station development. Nine Elms is a testament to the continued growth and modernization of London’s transport system.

The Busiest Underground Station: Waterloo

Waterloo station is the busiest station on the London Underground network, handling millions of passengers every year. It serves the Northern, Bakerloo, Jubilee, and Waterloo & City lines. In addition to its prominence within the Tube network, Waterloo is also a major railway station, linking London to the south of England. With its prime location near the South Bank, it is also a key interchange for tourists visiting attractions like the London Eye, the National Theatre, and the Tate Modern. The station's vast, multi-level structure and heavy traffic make it a constant hive of activity.

Interesting Faces About Other Notable Stations

Oxford Circus: Serving the Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines, Oxford Circus is one of the busiest stations, especially during rush hours. The station's location in the heart of London's shopping district makes it a hotspot for tourists and shoppers alike.

Holborn: Originally part of the Central London Railway, Holborn station is known for its iconic red-brick architecture. It's a crucial interchange for both the Central and Piccadilly lines, making it one of the busiest stations in central London.

Bond Street: Recently expanded to include access to the Jubilee line and the Elizabeth line, Bond Street station is now a major hub, offering access to the luxury shopping district and attractions like the Royal Academy of Arts.

Liverpool Street: Serving the Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines, Liverpool Street is another central station that connects commuters and visitors to various parts of London. It’s also a major national railway terminal, linking London to the East of England.

Conclusion

The London Underground system is not just a means of transportation but a fascinating part of the city's history and development. From the oldest stations like Baker Street to the newest stations like Nine Elms, each one tells its own story. Whether you're a Londoner or a visitor, understanding the history and significance of these Tube stations adds depth to your journey through the city. As you explore each station on your travels, take a moment to appreciate the role it plays in keeping London moving, connecting people across the city every day.