Hidden London: Uncover Holborn’s secret depths

Thursday, February 22, 2024

The London Transport Museum is set to offer a unique opportunity to explore the hidden depths of Holborn Tube station through a newly introduced behind-the-scenes tour, with reservations now open. Holborn station, which first opened its doors in 1906, originally featured four platforms to accommodate the Piccadilly line but holds far more secrets than what is visible to the everyday commuter.

This summer, participants in the tour will have the chance to venture beyond concealed doors into extensive, disused areas of the station, some of which have been out of the public eye for nearly three decades.

Guided by knowledgeable tour guides, attendees will have the opportunity to discover off-limits sections, including the two abandoned platforms that were once part of the Aldwych branch. The tour promises an extraordinary glimpse of the Piccadilly line, adorned with vintage posters and showcasing the original Edwardian design by Leslie Green, as well as an early 20th-century signaling cabin.

Drawing on the rich archives and collections of the London Transport Museum, the narrative of the tour will unfold the station’s multifaceted history throughout the 20th century. Participants will learn about the station’s transformation over the years, from serving as scientific laboratories and providing wartime shelter for London Transport staff to hosting a model rail club.

Furthermore, the tour will delve into the personal experiences of staff members during critical periods such as the Blitz, the impact of the 1930s’ extensive modernization project that resulted in the closure of the nearby British Museum station, and the station’s ongoing significance in the London Underground’s future through a significant upgrading project of its signaling system.

Scheduled to commence on July 31, 2024, the London Transport Museum’s Hidden London tours at Holborn will run from Wednesday to Sunday each week, offering an exclusive peek into the station’s storied past and its enduring legacy within the city’s transport network.

This initiative is anticipated to significantly impact tourism by attracting both locals and visitors interested in London’s rich transportation history and architectural heritage. By providing access to previously unseen parts of Holborn station, the tour not only enriches the cultural offerings of the city but also enhances the understanding of London’s evolution and technological advancements in public transportation. It represents a unique addition to the city’s tourist attractions, likely to pique the curiosity of history enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and casual explorers alike.

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