The Guide to Underground London
The Guide to Underground London takes a look at the city from the perspective of the oldest and most iconic underground transport system in the world. From ghost stories, scandals and tragedies to tourist attractions, architectural marvels and the best places to eat and drink; whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide aims to help you get the most out of your time in London.
The idea is to choose an Underground station, find out a little about the station itself and then take a look at the surrounding area. What are the connected stories? What is there to see and do nearby? And where’s good to eat?
To make it manageable, I’m starting with the 64 stations in zone 1. After that, we’ll just have to see…
The London Underground
The first section of the network was the Metropolitan line, which opened on 10th January 1863. And, over the course of nearly 150 years, it’s expanded into the 11 lines and 270 stations that we know today. 3.5 million journeys are made on the London Underground every weekday.
The modern tube map, a descendent of Harry Beck’s original circuit board design, featuring relative rather than geographic positioning, has become so iconic it’s now plastered onto mugs, T-shirts and even the lining of suit jackets.
The tube is more than a means to get from A to B. It’s a tourist attraction in itself and for visitors it’s an integral part of their experience in London. Admittedly for others the novelty of underground travel has been long since lost in the relentless crush of the morning commute. But it’s what keeps the city moving and London just wouldn’t be London without it.
Me, me, me!
This site takes the form of a blog or personal website created and written by me, Rebecca Sams. The aim is to create a fun and useful resource for people who have an interest in London.
I’m a freelance writer and web editor with a background in corporate intranet management, teaching English as a foreign language and underwater archaeology.
If you have any questions about the site, offers of writing work or just want to say hello, you can contact me using this form or email me on rebecca@guide-to-underground-london.com.
